Fine Art Family Photography Stories & Resources
A journal for families seeking timeless portraits across South Jersey, Philadelphia, and the surrounding region.
This journal shares fine-art family photography stories, session inspiration, and location guides for families throughout South Jersey and the greater Philadelphia area. Each post is designed to help parents plan meaningful portrait experiences while exploring the artistry behind Shooting Star Photography’s heirloom approach.
Explore Portrait Experiences:
Family Photographer Session in Millville, New Jersey
Lake Audrey, NJ: A Great Photo Session Spot
Looking for a picturesque location to capture memorable moments and create stunning photographs? Look no further than Lake Audrey in beautiful New Jersey. Nestled in a serene natural setting, Lake Audrey offers the perfect backdrop for your next photo session.
Love this family photo shoot at Lake Audrey in Millville, NJ! It is rustic and gorgeous.
As a family photographer, I am privileged to witness and capture genuine moments of love, laughter, and connection. Each session allows me to freeze fleeting moments in time, creating tangible memories that families will cherish for years to come. The unique bonds and dynamics I get to capture serve as a constant reminder of the beauty and joy that exist in everyday life. Being a family photographer is not just a profession but a heartwarming journey of discovery and storytelling that brings me immense fulfillment.
Fun Facts about Lake Audrey, NJ near Millville
Lake Audrey in New Jersey, close to Millville, is a serene 270-acre lake renowned for its fishing opportunities and scenic beauty.
The lake was constructed in the late 1950s, making it a relatively young body of water compared to natural lakes in the region.
Lake Audrey is primarily fed by runoff and springs, contributing to its cleanliness and clarity, ideal for various water activities.
The lake serves as a habitat for diverse wildlife, including fish species like largemouth bass, catfish, and sunfish, making it a popular spot for anglers.
Boating is a favorite pastime at Lake Audrey, with many visitors enjoying kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding on its tranquil waters.
The surrounding area offers lovely picnic spots and hiking trails, perfect for a day of outdoor adventure with family and friends.
Lake Audrey is not only a recreational destination but also plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem, supporting wetlands and providing a home for various migratory birds.
The lake's peaceful ambiance and natural surroundings make it a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Next time you're in the Millville area, be sure to visit Lake Audrey to experience its beauty and charm firsthand! This is why I love having family sessions here!
Lake Audrey, NJ: A Great Photo Session Spot
Looking for a picturesque location to capture memorable moments and create stunning photographs? Look no further than Lake Audrey in beautiful New Jersey. Nestled in a serene natural setting, Lake Audrey offers the perfect backdrop for your next photo session.
Tranquil Beauty of Nature
As you step foot onto the shores of Lake Audrey, you'll be instantly captivated by its tranquil beauty. Surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, this hidden gem provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The calm waters of the lake mirror the surrounding landscape, creating a breathtaking reflection that adds depth and charm to your photographs.
Variety of Scenic Spots
Lake Audrey offers a multitude of scenic spots that cater to all types of photography sessions. Whether you are seeking a romantic couples shoot or a fun-filled family portrait, there are plenty of options to choose from. The wooden footbridges crossing the lake provide an enchanting and whimsical ambiance, while the sandy shores offer a beach-like setting perfect for candid shots. The abundance of flora and fauna further enhances the natural beauty of the area, providing an endless array of unique photo opportunities.
Seasonal Delights
One of the best aspects of Lake Audrey is its ever-changing scenery throughout the seasons. In spring, blooming flowers and vibrant colors create a dreamy atmosphere, perfect for capturing the essence of new beginnings. During summer, the lake comes alive with activities such as boating and fishing, allowing you to create dynamic and energetic photos. Autumn paints the landscape with warm hues of red, orange, and gold, providing a breathtaking backdrop for your fall-themed sessions. Finally, winter transforms the area into a winter wonderland, with frosted trees and sparkling snow adding a touch of magic to your winter shoots.
Convenience and Accessibility
Another advantage of choosing Lake Audrey as your photo session spot is its convenience and accessibility. Situated in New Jersey, it is easily reachable from various nearby cities. The serene location exudes a sense of tranquility and seclusion, making it an ideal getaway from the urban hustle. Ample parking and well-maintained pathways ensure that you and your subjects can navigate the area comfortably and safely.
Conclusion
Lake Audrey in New Jersey is undoubtedly an excellent choice for your next photo session. Its tranquil surroundings, diverse scenery, and seasonal delights offer the perfect setting to capture stunning photographs that will be cherished for a lifetime. Whether you're a professional photographer or a photography enthusiast looking for a place to unleash your creativity, Lake Audrey promises a memorable experience and remarkable images. Don't miss out on the chance to capture your treasured moments in this hidden gem of New Jersey.
Here is another picture of the day! And this is FAMILY. Family photos are extremely important to capture together. Kids grow up so fast. As adults, we age.. and it's great to look back on these moments... especially 20 years from now. One thing that is important to me in being a family photographer, is I go in with a plan for each session. A typical family session goes like this..We start with family first (this is generally when we'll get the best attention out of little kiddos).
That way the formals are done and out of the way. Then I like to start with mom and kids, dad and kids, then the kids, individuals of the kids and then usually end it with a nice photo of mom and dad together. It gives a nice variety to a family album. If enough time, I generally like to get the kids playing or doing something in the moment.
My goal is to give a nice variety to my clients and I always go in with a game plan and we work from there! Family photography is actually one of my favorite "themes" to capture as I find this very important. These photographs are generally treasured for decades and become treasured heirlooms.A little about this location. This was taken in the Millville area. The light here is beautiful and I generally love a nice rustic feel to photographs. It adds textures which highlights your subject and gives them an added "pop." I am big into warmer colors and the neutral color palate of the scenery makes for pure perfection!
Thanks for stopping by!
Happy Shooting, Dee
Uptown Funk- A Graffiti Photo Shoot in Philadelphia.
Shooting Portraits Against a Graffiti Background: PlusesShooting portraits against a graffiti background can add an edgy and urban feel to your photographs. Here are a few reasons why this type of setting can be a great choice:1. Unique and Vibrant Backdrop: Graffiti art is known for its bold colors, intricate details, and unique designs. Incorporating this backdrop into your portraits instantly gives them a distinctive and eye-catching feel. The vibrant graffiti can add depth and interest to your images, making them stand out among more traditional portrait settings.
For this urban photo shoot in Philadelphia, we will be exploring the vibrant city streets adorned with striking graffiti walls. Philadelphia's graffiti scene offers a compelling backdrop for capturing unique and edgy images.
We will utilize the captivating colors and intricate designs of the graffiti walls to enhance the visual appeal of the photos. The juxtaposition of the urban artwork against the cityscape will add an element of creativity and urban flair to the images.
Our goal is to showcase the raw beauty of street art and the dynamic energy of Philadelphia. By incorporating the graffiti walls into the photos, we aim to create a visually stimulating and captivating series of images that truly reflect the essence of the city.
We look forward to capturing the essence of Philadelphia's graffiti art scene and creating a collection of photos that are both visually striking and artistically compelling.
Graffiti portraits can add that extra pop and vibrancy to your subjects.
Today's photo story is this beautiful portrait and young lady! My plan this year, is to post one photo per day on this blog and tell the story behind it! This was taken in Bushwick, Brooklyn. It's a very funky street lined with colorful artist murals. And.. Yep, I do travel. You'll often times find me all over the place! I love different and unique locations.As you noticed in my photography, I love color and I like taking some risks. I am also very picky about hand placement.
His clothing fits perfectly with this image.
Shooting Portraits Against a Graffiti Background: Pluses
Shooting portraits against a graffiti background can add an edgy and urban feel to your photographs. Here are a few reasons why this type of setting can be a great choice:
1. Unique and Vibrant Backdrop: Graffiti art is known for its bold colors, intricate details, and unique designs. Incorporating this backdrop into your portraits instantly gives them a distinctive and eye-catching feel. The vibrant graffiti can add depth and interest to your images, making them stand out among more traditional portrait settings.
2. Reflects Personality and Style: Graffiti backgrounds often exude a sense of individuality and self-expression. By choosing this backdrop, you can capture the essence of your subject's personality and style. Whether the graffiti represents a message, a cultural reference, or simply an artistic expression, it can provide a visual representation of who the subject is.
3. Adds Context and Story: Graffiti is deeply intertwined with its surroundings. Shooting portraits against a graffiti background can provide a sense of location and context. It can be used to tell a story or convey a specific message. Whether you're in a busy city alley or an abandoned industrial area, the graffiti backdrop can enhance the narrative of the photograph and create visual interest.
4. Versatility and Diversity: Graffiti backgrounds come in various styles and themes, allowing you to cater to a wide range of client preferences. From vibrant, abstract artwork to more muted and realistic portrayals, you can find graffiti that matches your subject's aesthetic. This versatility allows for endless possibilities in terms of creative compositions and mood.
5. Engaging and Modern Look: In today's visual landscape, incorporating urban aesthetics into portrait photography is becoming increasingly popular. The combination of graffiti backdrops with beautifully captured subjects offers a contemporary and engaging visual experience. Clients looking for a modern and fresh look in their portraits will appreciate the edginess that graffiti backgrounds bring to the final images.
While shooting portraits against a graffiti background can create stunning results, it's important to consider the location's accessibility, lighting conditions, and whether obtaining permission is required. Additionally, collaborating with your subjects to ensure their wardrobe and overall styling align with the graffiti backdrop can help create a cohesive and visually appealing outcome.
In conclusion, shooting portraits against a graffiti background has numerous advantages. From an eye-catching and vibrant backdrop to reflecting the subject's personality and style, the graffiti setting adds context, uniqueness, and an urban touch to your photographs. By leveraging the versatile and engaging nature of graffiti, portrait photographers can create striking and memorable images that capture the essence of their subjects.
Epic Graffiti Photo shoot!
I MUST ALWAYS see the hands and it's a big pet peeve of mine. I don't like missing hands in photos and am very particular in how they are placed. So, I love the hand placement here. I love how she is telling a story. She isn't just looking at me and the camera. It actually looks like a little girl, possibly waiting for her friends to arrive and go skateboarding.
This shoot was hosted with Lemmonmade Photography and Mila Wells Photography and many other photographers came out for this playdate! Clothing was provided by Neon Kisses and I truly love the urban vibe and colors as it's a big component of my work! I also love city shoots. The hustle and bustle. The sounds, the colors. Also, I find city light much softer light. As the concrete and light blocking of buildings creates a softer effect and is beautiful on the skin.This was such a fun day! Worth the traffic to get here! Of course we had to dine at a neat restaurant after our fun time!
Contact me today! If you would like a fun urban shoot! I have many scouted locations in Philadelphia and even South Jersey and Northern Delaware!!!
Happy Shooting, my friends!
Dee
Shooting Star Photography
New Scheduling Feature for Shooting Star
New Scheduling Feature for Shooting Star Photography
Introducing Our New Scheduling Feature
We are excited to announce the launch of our new scheduling feature at Shooting Star Photography! Now, booking a photography session with us is easier than ever.
With our intuitive scheduling system, you can browse available time slots, select a date and time that works best for you, and book your session in just a few clicks. No more back-and-forth emails or phone calls to find a convenient time – everything you need is right at your fingertips.
Whether you're looking to capture precious family moments, professional headshots, stunning portraits, or any other special occasion, our new scheduling feature streamlines the process, giving you more control and flexibility in securing your photography session.
Introducing Our New Scheduling Feature
We are excited to announce the launch of our new scheduling feature at Shooting Star Photography! Now, booking a photography session with us is easier than ever.
With our intuitive scheduling system, you can browse available time slots, select a date and time that works best for you, and book your session in just a few clicks. No more back-and-forth emails or phone calls to find a convenient time – everything you need is right at your fingertips.
Whether you're looking to capture precious family moments, professional headshots, stunning portraits, or any other special occasion, our new scheduling feature streamlines the process, giving you more control and flexibility in securing your photography session.
To take advantage of this convenient new feature, simply visit our website and navigate to the scheduling page. From there, you can choose your desired session type, view available dates and times, and lock in your appointment with ease.
We're committed to making your photography experience with us as seamless and enjoyable as possible, and our new scheduling feature is just one way we're delivering on that promise.
Try out our new scheduling feature today and take the first step towards capturing your timeless moments with Shooting Star Photography.
I love the urban vibe of this image and this cute little boy in Bushwick NY.
We all know that going back and forth with your photographer in the Philadelphia, New Jersey and Delaware region, with certain dates to hold your session can be quite daunting. All the back and forth with emails takes up your valuable time and even the photographer's (for this time of year... DEFINITELY!) I wanted to streamline my service offerings and I did try out a scheduling feature in the past.. and had a bad experience with it. It was still very daunting and old school and it even messed up some scheduling with clients.. which is no bueno. Of course, I did reach out and resolved the issue as any business person would do! I tested out Big Cartel recently and so far am very happy with the results. I am able to make easy changes and it's a simple process for my clients.. so it's a win win in my book.. The simple the better for everyone! This service will allow customers to book and reserve their sessions and to see what dates are available. Big game changer for everyone involved.
After retainer is paid, I follow up with client to schedule their time, discuss locations and wardrobe for their session. If you haven't heard I provide gowns, dresses, some suits for boys etc etc. It's a fun little option for my clients.These are the only dates available for next year as I told folks I was doing about 40 of them for 2017 and that's it! Enjoy, the simplicity my friends! I'm in love with this new feature! Here's a link to check it out!
Happy Shooting my friends and have a great day! Best, Dee New Scheduling Program
New Pretties Arrived Today!
New Pretties Arrived Today!
Great news! We've just received a new collection of dresses for our styled shoots, this time from Dollcake! The latest arrivals boast stunning designs and exquisite details that are sure to elevate the elegance and charm of our upcoming photo sessions. Stay tuned for a sneak peek at these gorgeous creations!
Great news! We've just received a new collection of dresses for our styled shoots, this time from Dollcake! The latest arrivals boast stunning designs and exquisite details that are sure to elevate the elegance and charm of our upcoming photo sessions. Stay tuned for a sneak peek at these gorgeous creations!
Pretty in blue. These are great for the beach.
Swooning over this dress!
Dollcake rocks!
Pretty as a princess.
Pretty in lavender.
Fall has been INSANITY. It pretty much is for every photographer... but I have been exhausted and have been traveling all over the country the past month and throughout this current fall season.. it's about to get even nuttier around here, but I'm a rockstar and and I will rock out this season!!! It's okay, as of this past weekend, no more traveling for awhile! So.. this means I get to stay in good Ol' South Jersey for a bit... well, until late November.. but will be HOME!!!
Sessions excite me.. I truly do enjoy working with families and people! It's going to be a great fall foliage season! The leaves are already changing and the weather has been staying pretty mild!Anywho! I received 4 new dresses in today... The first two, I will showcase.. They are from the lovely DOLLCAKE company located in Australia and I have collected probably about 20 or more of their dresses this past year. I love them..
The reason WHY... Well, they are very, very, durable from kiddo's abuse. I mean they are kids.. they're suppose to have fun.. get messy right? It is a part of this job and it happens, but these make me swoon everytime a kid wears them!I had my daughter model this for me as it came in today.. So please see attached for in person video.. I apologize for the grain.. as I did take it on my iphone, but figured you may like to see it on a REAL LIFE person.. This is a size 4.. It should fit a size 2 1/2- up to about a 4.. possibly a size 5..
Dollcake is a bit tricky with their sizing from time to time.. but it does allow a bit of stretch and the straps can be configured tight or lose with a ton of leeway. WARNING.. You will hear bribery for lollipops.. in this video.. be forewarned![wpvideo ULkAaqS5] Second Dress.. is this lavender long number.. Also, another gorgeous one.. This I purchased in a size 5. This should fit a bigger 3 year old up to possibly a size 6... A
gain, lots of leeway and can make adjustments! Here's another live view of the dress.. However, not taken with professional equipment so please don't kill me!More bribery.. and she's "all done. I'm very excited for this year! If I had more time... I would be blogging more sessions and getting them up here, but my goal has been to get them out the door for my clients! However, I am doing sessions in Delaware and Pennsylvania this end of year and am excited! I love new locations and spots! Hey, I love South Jersey, but it's nice to switch things up from time to time, right?
For those who are signed up to see me this season, I look forward to working with you!!! More goodies coming in too!
Have a great night and happy shooting! Dee
Another goodie has arrived!
Another goodie has arrived!
At Shooting Star Photography, we are constantly refreshing our collection with new dresses for our styled shoots. The vintage simplicity of this new arrival is truly charming. Keep an eye out for more stunning additions to our wardrobe for your next styled photo shoot!
At Shooting Star Photography, we are constantly refreshing our collection with new dresses for our styled shoots. The vintage simplicity of this new arrival is truly charming. Keep an eye out for more stunning additions to our wardrobe for your next styled photo shoot!
I love gray. It is one of my favorite colors to work with outdoors (except the beach).
Super cute kiddo with her “puppy” with the dress in use.
another cutie photo with the new dress!
Hey there!
I am loving seeing this weather changing.. the leaves turning and it getting darker... aren't you? As my 5 year old started his "big boy" school this year, it's been an adjustment (although he was in preschool a few days a week previously.) However, new school year gets me craving for the fall months!!!Boy am I excited for some of the new goodies I have just purchased and will be premiering them to you here.Eek! With these guys... I love when new items come in! I pretty much have new arrivals delivered daily, but hey... why not? It's definitely one of the perks of this job and why I love it so much!!! I LOVE stylized sessions.
A big part of me loves neutral colors because they bring out one's features, there are less color casts that I have to mess around with in post and they photograph beautifully!Here's a dress I purchased in size 2 and size 8! It's gray and has a boho vibe to it! I love the little tassel touch and the groovy gray color. Yep, I'm all about the boho/groovy lately!I will feature more goodies coming your way! I have also purchased some new floor length ball gowns in numerous colors that I'm sure folks will be happy to wear! I also have received a few adult gowns in recently!
I will post here shortly! I'm getting giddy for fall!!! Can't wait! It's my favorite time of year! Favorite sunlight, favorite colors.. and love the vibrancy this season brings!Stay tuned as I am doing a giveaway on our facebook page for a fall session. If you aren't following or liking... you should do so now! Winner will be chosen shortly!
Happy Shooting, my friends!
Dee
