New photographer? Get your White Balance in check!

White balance is a crucial aspect of photography that should never be overlooked by photographers. It plays a significant role in ensuring accurate color representation in our images. By adjusting the white balance, we can correct the color cast caused by different light sources. Whether shooting under natural sunlight, fluorescent lights, or tungsten bulbs, each lighting condition introduces a distinct color temperature. Setting the correct white balance not only brings harmony to the color tones but also enhances the overall mood and atmosphere of the photograph. It allows photographers to maintain the intended colors of the scene and accurately convey emotions and stories through their images. Ultimately, white balance is an essential tool that empowers photographers to capture the world in its truest form.

Taken in Salem County. Mom and her little girl!

Happy 4th and taken in my backyard in Woodstown.

Sooo... You want to edit like a big girl or boy boy...??As we all know, taking pictures BEHIND the camera is about 10% (some would even say less) of our job and the other would be what goes on behind the camera.  The other 90%.Well, this topic will be on editing alone. If folks are wanting to get a nice artistic look or edit in an artistic aspect, it all starts with a good Sooc image (straight out of camera) without that... You can throw it away. The more you strive to get it right in camera, the better off you are going to be.A lot of things can be marginally (sometimes majority fixed in Raw), but the one thing you can't fix is focus. If your subject is super soft and out of focus... That goes right into the garbage bin, unless you want to keep your "blurry image" for an artistic effect.

If you blow out your highlights, it's much more difficult to bring that detail back in post then it is to underexposed a tad to retain more detail.  Now, all this really is a preference in now you shoot. Of course, if you prefer a brighter/airy look you may be blowing out your sky and background a bit more. I tend to underexposed a teeny bit or try to expose for skin tones as to keep skin looking the best as possible when it comes to post. Without good skin (light, color, composition) the image can also be a dud. 

No one wants an Oompa Loompa image.So we have covered focus and exposure. The other important factor in a good image is your white balance.  Without proper exposure and white balance and if you try and go into editing, you're just polishing a turd. No matter what you do, it's going to still look like poo.Understanding proper exposure and white balance are the key elements (and of course focus being number one) when it comes to photography. If you can strive for getting it the most perfect you can in camera, your life will become much much easier. All creative edits start out with a real clean image..

Proper white balance and exposure have been adjusted and after that, it's game on for the fun stuff. So just keep this in mind when you shoot.  I use to set my own white balance using a filter, but I've learned that kelvin gets me great results and now utilize this, instead of auto white balance.  I also utilize focus peaking and a highlight priority in camera, so that I can better nail focus and to not blow out my highlights.I can't tell you how many photographers I see out there that just are not aware of even white balance and it destroys their image.  I see kids looking blue, magenta, orange, gray a lot and with a simple understanding of white balance, this can be corrected.  Proper white balance is going to make or break your photos!I have trained my eye over this short amount of time and have developed certain pet peeves with working and white balance has unfortunately, been one of them.  For anyone new to this field, study it long and study it hard. This will help you to be a better photographer.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

My Photography Session Prep Sheet and Style Guide

The Importance of Prepping for Your Photo Shoot

Prepping for your photo shoot is crucial for ensuring that you achieve the best results and have a smooth, stress-free session. Here are several reasons why prepping is essential:

1. Clarity of Vision

Prepping helps you clarify your vision for the photo shoot. It allows you to define the style, mood, and overall look you want to achieve, which guides all other aspects of the shoot.

2. Logistics and Coordination

Proper preparation ensures that all logistical details are taken care of, such as securing the location, obtaining permits if needed, arranging for hair and makeup, and coordinating with the photography team.

3. Time Management

Prepping helps in managing time effectively. When all the elements are well-planned, it minimizes downtime during the shoot, making the most of the available time and maximizing productivity.

4. Comfort and Confidence

Being well-prepared helps everyone involved in the shoot feel more comfortable and confident. Whether it's the model, the photographer, or the entire crew, knowing that everything is organized helps reduce stress and fosters a more relaxed, creative atmosphere.

5. Equipment Readiness

Preparing includes ensuring that all equipment is in working order, charged, and packed. This minimizes the risk of technical issues disrupting the shoot and allows for seamless transitions between different shots.

6. Creative Direction

A well-prepped shoot allows for more focus on the creative direction. With logistics and technical details taken care of, there's more mental and emotional space to explore and experiment with different poses, angles, and expressions, resulting in more dynamic and compelling photographs.

Yep, things are changing around here. I am a picky photographer. I have to be. This is my livelihood and honestly, I want folks to get the very best out of their session when working with me!  It's good to be picky! I am a bit of a snob when it comes to light too. I love light and I have strict standards to when I like to shoot outdoors to give the very best and to put you in the best light... NO PUN INTENDED.Here's my general guide... Yes, it's long... but you want the best in the Philadelphia and New Jersey region, right? 

Shooting Star Photography Styled Session Prep Sheet

Since I am offering stylized sessions, this is a great list of information on prepping you with your photo shoot with Shooting Star Photography.

Maternity Preparation

I bring about 3 gowns for you to choose from.  Please no flip flops as they do not photograph well. Closed toe shoes, boots, going barefoot, or neutral colored sandals are preferred and photograph the best.I will also bring some headpieces to choose from.  Please wear your hair to your liking. I prefer hair down either straight or curly.

Undergarments

Please bring nude boy shorts or underwear.  Preferably a nude strapless bra or nude bra in general.  I do not provide these items due to hygienic purposes.

Makeup

Please keep makeup as simple as possible. Dark/heavy makeup do not mix well for outdoor portraits as you will be moving around and will probably sweat a little.Please bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated. We include immediate family (if you have other children) and the father in the beginning of your session so please plan your outfit accordingly.  Towards the end, we will ask you to change and do some formal shots with the father and then the formals of yourself. We will have an assistant on hand to help you with whatever you need.

Children's Prep Sheet

At this time, I only have dresses and gowns for girls ages 1-14. We do have a few boy's items. Please inquire.We pull about 3 items for a half hour shoot and about 5-7 items for an hour shoot. We currently do not provide a current list of dresses in our inventory. We do like to freshly cycle them so that we aren't photographing the same dress all the time.Please arrive 15 minutes early so that we may dress you in a wardrobe prior to the start of your session.Make sure child is wearing neutral undergarments. Is clean. Trust me, I know how kids can be. I have two myself. Also, check for any boogers.  I know it's gross yes, but editing out boogers is no fun either.Please bring a few pairs of dress shoes as we do not provide this for our clients. Preferably, white, silver, gold, black or neutrals as they can go with anything.Makeup, I do not recommended makeup on any child as I like them to be children. I do not alter appearances as other photographers do and will not alter a child's appearance other than skin correction.We also have a wide arrangement of headpieces to choose from.

I will not liquify ribs, alter ears, eyes, give nose jobs or slim a child. Under NO CIRCUMSTANCE WHATSOEVER. I want your child to have a fun experience and feel like a princess.  They will be treated as one!Please bring some water and snacks so that we can take breaks throughout the session and your child can take a few moments for themselves.

Family Sessions

At this time we do not have a full inventory to style an entire family session. However, we can provide you with some great tips.Attention to detail is everything, including socks! Especially for men, we can see your socks in certain posing placements. Also, please keep phones out of pockets and hair ands off of wrists.  We will also do a quick check before we start our session.Wear neutral colors, pastels or jeweled tones. Prints are okay, but nothing too loud.Textures film well. So if you have silks, chiffons, feathers, tulle, these are great choices to wear on camera!As above, no heavy makeup.

Keep it light and fresh. Bring some snacks and drinks for the kids and please make sure they are well-rested prior to their session.You can always shoot me a text or email, if undecided in a wardrobe selection. We are here to help!Wardrobe selection,  as well as light, are the two most important roles in your photographs.  Believe it or not, location plays the third role, not first. Please trust me on locations that I provide.

FYI, You will probably think I am showing up like a bum to your session. I normally wear tights, boots and either a blouse or sweater. You will see me mostly rolling around in  the dirt (yes, I am very dirty after each session) or you will be seeing me trampling through mud. I take this job very seriously for my clients! My assistant is usually in much more presentable attire. Please don't judge me.

Now Time For The Fun!

All sessions will take place about an hour to an hour and a half prior to sunset. On particular beaches, we may start about a half hour prior to sunset and work with the light when it has set. No exceptions. I am very strict when I shoot because I like to provide my clients with the best!I do not double book days.  I only do one session per day, which is why it is very important to pay your retainer and lock in the date you want. As dates book up quickly, even weekdays.

In the case of inclement weather, we will reschedule and if we are unable to reschedule, you will receive your retainer back.I hope

I have provided you with a great list going forward! I am a bit picky, but this is why people choose me. These are memories you will have forever and attention to every detail is very important to me!Please feel free to reach out with any other questions!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Spring in South Jersey: A Season of Renewal

As the warm sun rises higher in the sky, South Jersey comes alive with the vibrant colors and sweet scents of spring. The arrival of spring heralds the awakening of nature from its winter slumber, transforming the landscape into a picturesque tapestry of blooming flowers, lush greenery, and clear blue skies.
The cherry blossoms in Haddonfield, the tulip fields in Hammonton, and the daffodil gardens in Vineland burst into a riot of color, drawing locals and visitors alike to witness nature's magnificent display. With the gentle breeze carrying the fragrance of blossoms and the chorus of birdsong filling the air, South Jersey becomes a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

As a photographer at Shooting Star Photography LLC, I am captivated by the ethereal beauty of spring in South Jersey. It offers a myriad of opportunities to capture the essence of this season of renewal. From the tender buds unfurling against a backdrop of clear blue skies to the delicate dance of butterflies and bees among the blossoms, there is no shortage of awe-inspiring moments to preserve through the lens.

Walking through the verdant landscapes and quaint townships, I am inspired by the sense of new beginnings that permeates the atmosphere. The picturesque settings provide the perfect backdrop for capturing the joy and vitality that spring brings to the region. Whether it's a family frolicking in a field of wildflowers or a couple strolling hand in hand along a tree-lined path, the beauty of spring in South Jersey lends itself to creating timeless and evocative photographs.

Spring in South Jersey is more than just a change in the weather—it's a celebration of life, beauty, and the promise of new beginnings. As the natural world comes alive with color, light, and energy, I look forward to capturing the essence of this enchanting season through my lens, preserving fleeting moments that encapsulate the spirit of spring in all its glory.

Oh... my.... goodness!!!  The weather has been FANTASTIC lately. For March, it has been pretty mild! EEEEEEK!!!! The magnolias have bloomed earlier than normal.. I have a terraced garden and it's truly incredible to look out at what is in bloom.  The narcissus, magnolia, white willow, magnolias, hellebores, hyacinths and periwinkle giving me a beautiful dance right now. It's like winter's hibernation is finally over and spring is officially here!!! It's new beginnings for me this year and am treading on different waters. I am starting off fresh and offering something very different to the entire Philadelphia area... STYLIZED SESSIONS!!!! Yes, you got that right!

Stylized Sessions To The Spring Mix

Why waste money on something you may only wear once or twice?  I bring a great selection of gowns with me to every single session in your size and time permitting, you can slip on anything you like. My house is starting to look more like a boutique, haha! I want you to feel like a million buckaroos!!! I am so happy to be able to provide this to all my clients!  I want my clients to feel and look beautiful as this is will be a very special memory that I will be capturing for a lifetime.Currently, I am offering clothing/dresses for all girls ages 2-14.  I have a variety of different styles and colors.  ALL MATERNITY SESSIONS ARE STYLED.  I have just started purchasing gowns for women (so please inquire, I MAY have your size) and boys.  I have a few suits, ties, suspenders, hats. I will eventually have some pieces for men. I also provide headpieces in beautiful chiffons, silk, lace, crowns, feathers and everything in between!!! My goal is to provide a luxuriant service to all my customers!  From start to finish!

This is why we've only been in business for a year and have had clients return 4 or 5 times! We LOVE them! and guess what? I love you, too!

New Photography Locations!

On the horizon are unique session offerings. I will be offering sessions in azalea, lavender, daylily, sunflower and gladiola fields.  Unfortunately, the peonies and cherry blossoms have been sold out this year!  But... maybe again for next year? However, I have hundreds of scouted locations (including some private properties that I have available). We will do our best to give you what you want!!! I think in my next posting, I might show a little of the dresses I have accumulated! I think you will fall in love! I have over 30 more dresses coming in and a few special order princess crowns!How we work is... you tell us your size or sizes needed... and I bring a hand-picked selection for you to choose from. I also bring headpieces!

You can have as many wardrobe changes within your session time period. I want you to enjoy your experience. I also bring an assistant with me to give you the best we have to offer!  This assistant helps with getting smiles, helping you dress, watching for any fly away hairs, getting you a drink, if you need it... They are here to help!!! 

We've also opened up to servicing Delaware (love me some Delaware, it's actually not the far from me), the Philadelphia metro market and even central Jersey this year!!! YES!!! We will come to you!

 Well... I look forward to hearing from you soon!  Thank you for stopping by and happy shooting, my friends!!!

Dee Giumetti

Top 20 Facebook Photography Groups You Should Join

Top 20 Must-Join Facebook Photography Groups

Are you looking to elevate your photography skills and connect with fellow enthusiasts? Joining Facebook photography groups can be an excellent way to learn, share, and gain inspiration. Here's a curated list of top 20 Facebook photography groups that you should consider joining to up your game:

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned photographer, these Facebook groups offer valuable opportunities to learn, connect, and grow as a photography enthusiast. Join the ones that align with your interests and unleash your creativity!

Beautiful light at Lake Audrey, New Jersey.

Set me free at Weymouth Furnace.

Joining Facebook groups as a budding photographer is a fantastic way to enhance your skills, knowledge, and network in the photography community. These groups provide a unique platform to connect with like-minded individuals who share the same passion and interest in photography. By joining these groups, you gain access to a wealth of valuable information, tips, and tricks shared by experienced photographers. Additionally, it opens up opportunities to collaborate, participate in photo challenges, and receive constructive feedback on your work. The diverse range of perspectives and expertise within these groups can inspire creativity and push your boundaries as a photographer. It's a supportive community where you can seek advice, share your struggles, and celebrate your successes. Ultimately, being a part of Facebook photography groups enables you to grow as a photographer and foster relationships that can positively impact your career.

My Top 20 Photog Facebook Groups

And if you are a photographer... You must join join!

Every single day, there are new photographers popping up. I admire them. They're bright-eyed and bushy tailed and eager to learn (or should be). They are excited and have a ton of passion. If one is already naturally creative, they can apply that to their new role and journey.It's crazy because I don't look down on these new togs. I know that if they are going to make it, they're going to have to dedicate so much time building their business and developing their craft. It is HARD and it's HARD to get on your feet initially.

HARD to get your name out there and book appointments. Plus, you want to learn and soak up EVERYTHING you can get your hands on!!! Trust me, I get it. I do great with folks in South Jersey. I book a lot of sessions and some I have to refer out and qualify to see if I'll be the best fit for the customers. If I didn't refer these folks out and qualify them, I'd have too much of a workload on my plate and would be stressed to the gills.However, I am starting out in a sense by launching myself into new markets like Delaware and Philadelphia.

These markets I am now going after and trying to get my name out and am now laying the footwork to get in there like I've done here in South Jersey.I try and keep my life in balance, but unfortunately my workload sometimes gets the best of me. New tog, It's going to be tough, but you can do it! Your first year will have you on a roller coaster.Anyway, I tend to ramble a lot. However, I wanted to devise a good list for the newer photographer starting out of some great Facebook groups that I think will be truly beneficial to you as you stomp through the mud of your journey.So here it goes... My ultimate Facebook group resource!

HERE ARE THE TOP 20 FACEBOOK GROUPS YOU SHOULD JOIN!

1. The Law Tog

Created by a fellow photographer and lawyer, it's a wonderful resource for any legal questions you may have. She's also got this rocking contract she sells in her shop. I had it reviewed by a local lawyer and it passed with flying colors.Now sometimes some of the questions are train wrecks, but it definitely teaches you about the business behind the scenes.https://www.facebook.com/groups/lawtog/

2. Photography Props Group

If you're starting out, you're going to need props. A ton of them. Especially,  if you are going into newborn photography or studio work.. Personally, I am not a big fan of props, but that is why I choose not to do this type of photography!  If you are looking for a particular item (this is a fab group for newborn photographers), it's a great mix of vendors and photographers. Ask for what you are looking for and you shall receive!https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestphotographypropsgroup/There's also a $25 and under group.https://www.facebook.com/groups/props25orless/

3. SEO for the Professional Photographer

If you are starting out, you're going to need a website and with that comes maintaining your site. Requiring you to learn all the fun about SEO aka search engine optimization and how to get your website to rank high and on the first page or 2nd with your target keywords.https://www.facebook.com/groups/photoSEO/

4. Photographer's Alliance

For basic questions, this is a great professional group of photographers. They cover a more wide range of subjects, but I've never seen drama in this group like I have seen in others, so that's a huge plus.https://www.facebook.com/groups/thephotographersalliance/

5. The Modern Tog

A neat Facebook group of almost 25,000 photographers where you can ask business or general marketing advice.https://www.facebook.com/groups/443890265645600/

6. Photography Tutorials

You're going to need to learn about new techniques and programs like Lightroom, ACR and Photoshop.https://www.facebook.com/groups/photographyturtorialsandlessons/ I'll actually post a blog in the future of some great photography editing sites and places to learn how to edit, but for now it's Facebook groups:)

7. WHICH Group

This is a group where you can ask unbiased questions on the workshop you've been eyeing to see if it's worth going or not. Also, on any editing webinars, etc.https://www.facebook.com/groups/WhichPhotographyTraining/

8.  Pretty Dresses for RESALE 

Meg Bitton has a dress group. Where she sells dresses in batches every so often of the high end gowns she photographs.https://www.facebook.com/groups/758524920889156/

9. Marketing For Photographers

I don't think so need to explain that much... But you guessed it... Marketing questions and tips for all you lovely photographers.https://www.facebook.com/groups/SEOandMarketingforPhotogs/

10. Leah Maria Couture

American made dresses/gowns/props for us budding photographershttps://www.facebook.com/groups/leahmariacouture/

11. Photographer's Playgroup

This one can be a lot of fun as an image is posted and other photographers will edit it. It's always interesting to see what folks can come up with on the same image.https://www.facebook.com/groups/290006404345013/

12. Photographer's Support

Great place to whine and get some support on certain business related matters.https://www.facebook.com/groups/92010142808498813. Other cool dress groups for Dollcake, Tutu Du Monde, Joyfolie, etc.https://www.facebook.com/groups/219607941559563/https://www.facebook.com/groups/1477732232459191/

14. Photographer Resources

This is one of my favorites. There's a ton of freebies in here and great learning resources!https://www.facebook.com/groups/407934876014273/

15. Learning OCF aka Off camera flash

Excellent Facebook group if you are wishing to learn off camera flash. A lot of great and free resources in here.https://www.facebook.com/groups/speedlightfundamentals/

16. Photoshop and Lightroom Group

With over 100,000 members prepare to swoon over some work in here!https://www.facebook.com/groups/pshopandlightroom/

17. Pure Newborn, Maternity and Beyond

Great group. One of 3 group I'm regularly in. This was started by Alicia D'Amico. You'll learn a lot in here!https://www.facebook.com/groups/PureEmotionsPhotogs/

18. Newborn Photography 101

The funny thing is, it isn't all about newborns. It's everything! It use to be my favorite group and is still in the top 3!https://www.facebook.com/groups/1560656694148621/

19. Meg Bitton's Group

The talent in here alone, will either make you swoon or want to go cry in a closet because you will think you really really suck and may never want to pick up a camera againhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/mwofmatnbchildphotography/

20. The South Jersey Speakeasy Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/SJSpeakeasy/Last, but not least. If there are any local photographers in the South Jersey, Delaware or Philadelphia areas, this is a great group and resource for you!I hope you enjoy this list! I am apart of so many groups, but these are the ones I'm most privy too and believe have helped me along in this wonderful journey of photography!Maybe I'll see you around in these favorite groups of mine?  Or in Delaware my new territory... or the Mainline in Philadelphia!!!Woo hoo!!!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Spring Is Almost Here!

Spring Will Soon Arrive

As the winter frost begins to thaw and the days stretch a little longer, we are reminded that spring will soon arrive. The promise of new life and vibrant colors emerges with each passing day, rejuvenating our spirits and awakening the world around us.
With the arrival of spring, nature comes alive in a symphony of blossoms and melodies. The once barren branches of trees burst forth with delicate buds, and the earth awakens from its slumber with an explosion of fragrant blooms. The air becomes filled with the sweet scents of fresh grass, blooming flowers, and earthy petrichor, inviting us to venture outdoors and revel in the beauty that surrounds us.

As the season transitions, we find ourselves shedding the layers of winter and embracing the warmth of the sun. It's a time for renewal, growth, and rejuvenation—a time to cast off the old and embrace the new. We plant seeds of hope and watch as they flourish, mirroring the growth and transformation within ourselves.

The arrival of spring also evokes a sense of joy and optimism. It's a time for outdoor gatherings, leisurely strolls, and basking in the gentle caress of the sun's rays. The world seems to come alive with energy and vitality, infusing us with a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm for the days ahead.
As we eagerly anticipate the arrival of spring, let us take a moment to pause and appreciate the beauty that accompanies this magical season. Let's embrace the sense of wonder and possibility that comes with each budding flower and each warm breeze. Spring will soon arrive, and with it, the promise of new beginnings and endless opportunities.

Twirling in the spring garden.

Little spring baby with pearls… on the moss in the garden.

We had some fun in the snow this winter! Love a snow photo shoot!

Our Current Status With Bookings

Hi folks! You may have been noticing that these last few days have been rocking!!! Seventy plus degrees outside!  The birds are singing and the sun is out! Woo Hoo!  I thought this winter would slow down a bit this year, to last year's abysmal time, but it hasn't. I've been fortunate to work consistently this winter. This spring is starting to look a ton more nuts!I am doing a lot of First Communion sessions.  

A lot of folks seem to really want an updated/artistic look to their traditional communion poses that you normally see (and to be honest a lot of these poses are kind of outdated as if they were taken in the 1990's it's time to bring some sauce back)! We'll incorporate a few of the traditional poses into our sessions, but also give it some of that Shooting Star magic that we all love!  The girls will get to be dolled  up in their first communion gowns and then I am going to dress them up in some of the gowns I have!

Communion and Family Sessions seem to be a popular start of the New Year

 I'm also wanting to incorporate any family/siblings into these sessions, so they should be fun! I'm very excited as I'm getting new inventory in every single day! I've got over 20 more gowns arriving soon, headpieces, and I ordered my first gown for women!   And Oh my goodness!!! I cannot wait until you see them!!!!  Our next HUGE concept shoot will be in Philadelphia next month! We're also booking out until June, so if you wanting to book.. Book now. Our last year was booked out for the entire year by August. I wouldn't want for you to lose your spot! 

Since we had a nice day today, I got to do some cleanup in the garden and enjoy the warm sunshine... so I made this cheesy video. There are a lot of photographs missing, but I truly do love where I live and to be able to offer it to my clients.The only thing I ask is please don't come knocking at my door, when you don't have a scheduled appointment or didn't call first.  I had someone come to my home yesterday and it scared me!!

Oh and try to get out to the Philadelphia Flower show this week!!! It's pretty amazing this year! The bartenders make some pretty mean Bloody Mary's too!!!! It's an interesting concept this year and I love it!So that's pretty much what is new for me! A few shoots this weekend and it's starts to get crazy after that, with shoots during the week and weekends!! So if I haven't responded, you know what I'm doing and I will get back to you as soon as I can!!! 

Happy Shooting My Friends!!!

Dee