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:
New Jersey Beach Sessions!
Life is truly a splendid gift. It's a journey. I can't tell you how blessed I am in doing what I do. If I had to choose my favorite places to photograph at... It would be the Jersey Shore and the City. There's something really fun and freeing doing beach sessions. They tend to be a bit relaxed. Most of the beachgoers, have left for the evening... so the beach becomes this magical photography playground to have all by ourselves.
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In the evening, the New Jersey shore becomes our dazzling playground.
I'm not truly into the looking at the camera and the cheesy smiles. I am more about telling a story... a story of a beautiful childhood. A story of capturing this magical time in a family's life. Time moves so fast. Your 5 year old quickly becomes 10 years old and then your 10 year old quickly goes off to college. It's times like these, that you want to treasure and keepsake. Sometimes, photos are all you have left to look back on and treasure.
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Beautiful family session at the New Jersey shore!
In 2020, I have new ideas and places we will be exploring. I hope you can come along with me in this journey. New locations and a lot of newly found fun.
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Love the my home and my beautiful backyard!
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Jersey shore Ferris Wheel sessions are ones I truly love to capture!
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Be free child.
May we see you in 2020! Thanks for stopping by and I hope you have a beautiful fall!! We serve all of Southern New Jersey for beach sessions.. LBI, Stone Harbor, Margate, Ocean City, Cape May and Sea Isle to name a few!
Love,
Shooting Star Photography
Chasing Silver in the Sun: A Sisters Photoshoot in Wilmington DE
Chasing Silver in the Sun: A Sisters Photoshoot in Wilmington DE
Aug 22
Intro
There's something magical about a beautiful day in the gardens, filled with laughter, love, and the shimmer of silver. On a particularly gorgeous day, two sisters decided to transform their shared moments into tangible memories within the captivating environs of Wilmington, DE. The dazzling smiles, the shared giggles, and their adoration for all things silver gave birth to a fascinating tale under the sun.
Intro
There's something magical about a beautiful day in the gardens, filled with laughter, love, and the shimmer of silver. On a particularly gorgeous day, two sisters decided to transform their shared moments into tangible memories within the captivating environs of Wilmington, DE. The dazzling smiles, the shared giggles, and their adoration for all things silver gave birth to a fascinating tale under the sun.
A Glimpse of Mary Coffin Gardens
Tucked away in the bustling city of Wilmington, Delaware, lies a hushed paradise - the Mary Coffin Gardens. Often overlooked, this gem boasts a rich tapestry of emerald greenery, a riot of blossoming flowers, and tranquil nooks ideal for moments of reflection. This splendid sanctuary offers an exquisite canvas for compelling photography. Picture cobblestone trails snaking their way through the flourishing gardens, sunlight dappled through the canopy of leaves, creating a visual symphony for any photoshoot. It is within this verdant oasis that the narrative of our sisters began to take shape.
Sisterhood Defined Through a Photoshoot
The lens of a camera has the power to capture more than just pictures; it can encapsulate emotions, relationships, and moments that are fleeting yet impactful. The sisters' photoshoot was a beautiful depiction of their bond - an intricate web of shared experiences, whispered confidences, playful banter, and unwavering affection. As they frolicked and chased each other amidst the garden's lush greenery, their shared laughter resonated, creating a symphony of joy and companionship that was captured in every photograph. Each snapshot was more than just a beautiful picture; it was a cherished fragment of their shared existence, echoing their camaraderie, their shared past, and their aspirations.
Embracing the Silver Trend in Fashion
Fashion is not just about the clothes we wear, but the stories we tell through them. The sisters’ mutual affinity for silver was brilliantly showcased in their photoshoot. Their accessories glinted in the sunlight, adding a touch of glamour and glitz to their appearance. Silver tones extended beyond their jewelry, embracing their wardrobes as well. Their outfits, in varying shades of silver, gave off a chic and trendy vibe.
What made the silver trend even more enchanting was the setting. Amid the lush greenery of the Mary Coffin Gardens, the sisters’ silver attire shone like stars on a clear night. The vibrant colors of the surrounding flora served as a dramatic contrast to the metallic hues, further amplifying their radiance. The sunlight dancing off their silver ensembles created a mesmerizing spectacle - a sight that could capture any eye and captivate any heart.
More than just an aesthetic choice, the silver trend worn by the sisters was a reflection of their personalities. It revealed their modern outlook towards fashion, their shared love for all things bright and shiny, and their ability to stand out. Their striking attire combined with their vivacious energy made every photo sparkle with life and style. A trend that might seem like a simple color choice became a symbol of their togetherness and their shared style statement. The silver trend, as adorned by the sisters, was thus not just a color, but a captivating tale of fashion, sisterhood, and shared memories.
Capturing Perfect Moments
The essence of photography lies in the magic of seizing those fleeting instances that may seem ordinary yet are truly extraordinary. Each photograph of the sisters was a canvas portraying these ephemeral but precious moments, etched permanently into their shared chronicles. Through the photographer's lens, the infectious joy, profound love, and unbreakable bond between the sisters were masterfully encapsulated.
The photoshoot was less about staged poses and more about catching them in their natural, unfiltered state. Their movements were spontaneous, their laughter genuine, their smiles unrehearsed. It was all about capturing them in the middle of a joyous sprint, or a shared giggle, or a quiet, loving glance. It was about framing them in their true essence, reveling in each other's company, and simply basking in the moment.
These sisters were not just posing for the camera, they were living their story and creating a narrative that the lens was privileged to capture. Each snap clicked at the right moment brought out their shared camaraderie, their playful banter, and their genuine affection for each other. It was about freezing those shared glances, those belly laughs, and those tender moments of sisterly love into timeless keepsakes.
Photography, after all, is not just about capturing faces; it's about capturing feelings, relationships, and those priceless instants that tell a compelling story. The artistry lies in preserving those perfect moments that, in retrospect, become an unforgettable part of the sisters' shared journey. The photoshoot in the enchanting Mary Coffin Gardens was less about the photographs taken and more about the precious moments caught in each frame, crafting an unforgettable narrative of sisterhood and love.
A Beautiful Day to Remember
As the sun started to dip below the horizon, casting a serene glow over the Mary Coffin Gardens, the sisters stood side by side, their hands intertwined. Their hearts were brimming with a trove of treasured memories made throughout the day. From the glint of their silver attire sparkling under the sun to their echoing laughter that blended harmoniously with the garden's serene soundscape, every moment was etched in their hearts. The day was more than just a photoshoot - it was an enriching journey seeped in shared joy, camaraderie, and the unspoken language of sisterhood. It was a celebration of their mutual love for fashion, especially their fondness for the enigmatic charm of silver. Each giggle shared, each playful chase, each quiet, affectionate glance was a testament to their beautiful bond. The day was all about cherishing the beauty of the present, living each moment to its fullest, and creating beautiful memories in the process. As they looked back at the day, their hearts swelled with contentment. Their photoshoot in the serene, idyllic setting of the Mary Coffin Gardens wasn't just an event on their calendar. Instead, it was an unforgettable chapter in their shared journey, a vivid memory they would revisit time and again. Each snapshot taken, each moment shared under the sun was a cherished memory, a beautiful memento of their sisterly bond. As they left the gardens, their minds were filled with the day's experiences - a day of joy, shared fashion statements, and the magic of sisterhood, forever etched in their hearts. It was, indeed, a beautiful day - a day that would always shimmer in their memories like their cherished silver.
Welcome to this magical garden series for 2019! We have obtained a permit to shoot at the Mary Coffin Gardens in Wilmington, Delaware. If you haven't heard of this place, you need to check it out. Mary Coffin was the main designer at Winterthur Gardens and you see this carried over to this estate. She also worked on some gardens at Longwood.
Join me for a day of whimsy at this magical place. I have two spots left and this is our last offering of the year at this special limited series rate.
We will provide dresses and headpieces and we will have fun in the gardens.
If you would like to book this magical garden experience, please see the link above for more information. We would love to see you here!
There is one thing I am obsessed with. I always have been. From a young age to now an adult. It's one thing that has always brought me joy. It's flowers. Anything relating to flowers, I'm quite obsessed.
I obtained a Master Gardening Certification back in 2005. I love being able to identify bloom times of perennials and now am teaching my children how to identify these plants, just by their leaves. I have had gardens all my life.
From vegetable gardening with my father, to creating my own little magical "french courtyard" when I became an adult and lived in Havertown, PA. I took down an old dilapidated brick garage. Chiseled and sanded off the mortar of each and every brick. Used the brick to create walls around the property fence line and then even created brick flower beds. I had every variety of plant you could imagine, as my little courtyard garden was like a secret garden. Jasmine filled the air. Every Sunday night, we would light up a ton of candles. Listening to Frank Sinatra Sundays on the radio.
When I moved back to New Jersey, we bought a little house. All 1100 square feet. It was a blank canvas, so I got to work! Creating Rose of Sharon hedges for privacy on our little stone patio and boxwood and lilies.. everything lilies.. from easter lilies, to daylilies, to asiatic and oriental varieties and lots and lots of lavender. I had a small space, but made sure I made it my little heaven.
Our family was expanding and so it was time to move from our tiny house and we settled in Woodstown. We saw the house in the winter all snow on the ground, but I new the garden would be extraordinary in the spring. It was pretty much the reason I wanted my house. The garden use to be on state garden tours. It's terraced leading down to a stream. This is now my new paradise that I call home and you could never ask me to leave. I love it.
As you can see, I have surrounded myself with flowers all my life. I couldn't be happier. This is the joy I also like to share with every client that comes through the door.
This is why this magic garden series is special to me. It brings me back to my original garden... encapsulated within stone. It reminds me of my travels to England and France and the beautiful gardens that you seem to find anywhere you look. It brings me back to a time of garden leisure and sophistication. It's one of my favorite places this year to shoot at.
Happy Shooting, my friends!
Dee
Shooting Star Photography
NJ Photographer | Fine Art Portrait Sessions in our Photography Studio
NJ Photographer | Fine Art Portrait Sessions in our Photography Studio
Shooting Star Photography LLC: Capturing Timeless Moments at 1001 White Horse Pike, Haddon Township, NJ
Welcome to Shooting Star Photography, where stunning artistry meets timeless elegance. Nestled in the heart of Haddon Township, New Jersey, our studio's prime location at 1001 White Horse Pike invites you to embark on a visual journey filled with flawless portraits.
Shooting Star Photography LLC: Capturing Timeless Moments at 1001 White Horse Pike, Haddon Township, NJ
Welcome to Shooting Star Photography, where stunning artistry meets timeless elegance. Nestled in the heart of Haddon Township, New Jersey, our studio's prime location at 1001 White Horse Pike invites you to embark on a visual journey filled with flawless portraits.
As a full-service photography studio, we take great pride in offering an array of services tailored to capture your unique essence. Whether you dream of fine art photography, classic portraiture, or simply desire to immortalize a precious moment, our skilled team of photographers is here to make your vision a reality.
Step into our warm and inviting studio, where creativity blooms and dreams come to life. With an attention to detail that exceeds expectations, we create extraordinary images that will stand the test of time. Using state-of-the-art equipment and innovative techniques, we transform ordinary scenes into extraordinary works of art.
Through our devotion to excellence, we have cultivated a reputation as one of the premier photography studios in Haddon Township and beyond. Our commitment to capturing the beauty and essence of each individual sets us apart. Whether you require a captivating headshot, a memorable family portrait, or a stunning engagement photo, we are dedicated to ensuring a professional and memorable experience.
At Shooting Star Photography, we believe that every photograph should be a cherished memory, one that transports you back to the very moments that define us. With each click of the shutter, we strive to freeze time, capturing the raw emotions and authentic connection that make your story come alive.
Take the first step toward preserving your most precious moments. Visit our studio at 1001 White Horse Pike, Haddon Township, NJ, and let us create a masterpiece that will be treasured for generations.
I love the winter time. It allows me to get to work on studio sessions. Whether from Philadelphia, Cherry Hill, Ocean City, we got you covered in regards to indoor portrait sessions. We've learned from the masters in the industry and love creating simple/classic portraiture.
Winter time in Woodstown, New Jersey. Snow sessions, portrait sessions.
Nothing like a capture in the Woodstown, New Jersey private gardens.
There is something special and unique about indoor portrait sessions. It emphasizes their natural features. The images tell a story.
A little girl and her dolly. Capturing this innocent time of childhood.
What Is A Vintage Boys Fine Art Sessions?
At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we are delighted to announce our latest offering: Vintage Boys Fine Art Sessions.
Step back in time and immerse your little ones in a world of nostalgia, capturing their innocence and curiosity in timeless photographs. Our experienced team of photographers is ready to capture the magic, creating stunning fine art portraits that will be treasured for years to come.
Timeless Portraits with a Retro Twist
Our Vintage Boys Fine Art Sessions offer a unique spin on traditional children's photography. We take inspiration from vintage aesthetics, incorporating elements such as antique props, classic clothing, and rustic backdrops to transport your child to a bygone era.
During the session, our photographers will guide your child through a series of poses and gently coax out their natural expressions. We aim to capture the true essence of your little one, showcasing their individuality and charm.
Creating Memories to Last a Lifetime
The Vintage Boys Fine Art Sessions offer more than just photographs; they provide an opportunity to create cherished memories. As your child engages in the session, they will experience a sense of adventure and playfulness, helping them to relax and truly be themselves. Our photographers work diligently to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for both child and parent alike.
The Shoot
Prior to the session, we encourage parents to bring along any sentimental items or accessories that they would like to incorporate into the photographs. This could be a family heirloom, vintage toy, or even a cherished book. These personal touches will add depth and meaning to the portraits, telling a unique story about your child's past and present.
During the shoot, we will capture a range of candid moments, playful interactions, and posed portraits. We aim to create a diverse collection of images that beautifully encapsulate your child's character and spirit.
NOTHING like simple classic portraiture and natural smiles!
I will be launching more fine art sessions probably by November! We'll be doing a few of these in 2020! Can't wait! These are some of my favorite sessions, as I do enjoy a simpler more classic look to my everyday photographs!
Happy Shooting, my friends!
Dee
2019 Tulip Sessions in Southern New Jersey
I love tulip sessions! I have done these just about every single year since I started photography. They sell out every year and just about every year, we win an award for our photography. This is something I love and hold dear in our beautiful Garden State!
This lovely family from Gloucester County hired us. I can't take the credit for the styling in this, it's all mom! Thanks Mom! You did a fantastic job with this! If wanting to know where the little guy's outfit came from... wait for it... it came from Amazon!!!
I love shooting at my little patch every single year! The pop of color truly shines. I love the spring light. I just really love my little magical place. It's private property and the family who owns it, lets me get to cherish it, every year!
With every season, it's my attention to give you the best! That means lots of fun and twirls!
I hope you enjoyed this little "sneak peak" into the series. I loved working with this brother and sister combo! I hope to see them again soon!
Happy Shooting, my friends! -Dee Shooting Star Photography,
See you again, South Jersey!
Sunflower Sessions in New Jersey- A Blooming Radiance
Sunflower Sessions in New Jersey- A Blooming Radiance
Sunflowers in Southern New Jersey
At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we recently had the pleasure of organizing a delightful vintage kids photo shoot amidst the breathtaking sunflower fields of New Jersey. As the warm sun gently cascaded through the golden petals, an enchanting scene unfolded before our eyes. The vintage-inspired outfits perfectly complemented the vibrant hues of the sunflowers, creating a whimsical atmosphere. Laughter filled the air as the children gleefully explored the vast sea of flowers, their smiling faces a snapshot of pure joy. We were able to capture precious moments of wonder and innocence that will forever be cherished by their families. This magical experience amidst the sunflowers of New Jersey was a reminder of the beauty that childhood brings and the timeless appeal of vintage photography.
Sunflowers in Southern New Jersey
At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we recently had the pleasure of organizing a delightful vintage kids photo shoot amidst the breathtaking sunflower fields of New Jersey. As the warm sun gently cascaded through the golden petals, an enchanting scene unfolded before our eyes. The vintage-inspired outfits perfectly complemented the vibrant hues of the sunflowers, creating a whimsical atmosphere. Laughter filled the air as the children gleefully explored the vast sea of flowers, their smiling faces a snapshot of pure joy. We were able to capture precious moments of wonder and innocence that will forever be cherished by their families. This magical experience amidst the sunflowers of New Jersey was a reminder of the beauty that childhood brings and the timeless appeal of vintage photography.
In the sun-kissed fields of South Jersey, where vibrant petals stretch towards the heavens, a captivating story unfolds—a sunflower photo session that celebrates the sheer beauty and enchantment of nature's golden blooms. Against a backdrop of dazzling yellow hues, a tale of joy, serenity, and mesmerizing splendor is captured through the lens. Join us as we immerse ourselves in the radiant world of a sunflower photo session in South Jersey, where nature's artistry intertwines with human creativity to create an unforgettable visual experience.
Sisters being silly in the sunflowers of South Jersey.
A Tapestry of Sunflowers:
South Jersey's sunflower fields create a mesmerizing spectacle, spreading over vast landscapes like a golden quilt. Bathed in the warm sunlight, these radiant flowers evoke a sense of awe and wonder, drawing visitors from far and wide. Nestled amidst this blooming tapestry, a photo session unfolds, with the intention of capturing the ephemeral beauty and the emotions it evokes.
Nature's Golden Symphony:
As the sun casts its golden rays over the sunflower field, the air becomes infused with a sweet, earthy scent, and a gentle rustling of leaves provides a harmonious soundtrack. Each sunflower stands tall and proud, their magnificent heads turned towards the sun, as if seeking its nurturing embrace. Against this natural orchestra, the photographers and subjects find themselves immersed in a captivating symphony of color and light.
Unveiling Beauty:
In this sunflower paradise, a group of individuals steps into the frame, poised to embrace the magic that unfolds around them. Friends, families, or couples find themselves surrounded by a sea of sunflowers, their vibrant petals serving as a canvas for shared memories and emotions. Laughter and joy ripple through the air as they bask in the whimsical beauty that nature has bestowed upon them.
Expressions of Delight:
The sunflower field becomes a stage where human emotions intertwine with the brilliance of nature. Smiles light up faces as sunflower crowns are delicately placed atop heads, symbolizing the whimsy and delight experienced amidst the blossoms. Children skip and play, their tiny hands reaching out to touch the velvety petals. Couples embrace, their love mirrored by the sunflowers' graceful dance. Every interaction, every expression, is captured, freezing moments of joy, love, and wonder into eternal memories.
A Journey of Discovery:
As the photo session progresses, visitors wander through the sunflower field, exploring its hidden corners, and discovering unexpected wonders. Amongst the towering sunflowers, butterflies flutter by, delicate and enchanting, while bees diligently collect pollen, contributing to the circle of life. The interplay between humans and nature creates a sense of connectedness, reminding all of the beauty and harmony that exist when we immerse ourselves in the natural world.
Conclusion:
In the sunflower fields of South Jersey, a symphony of color, light, and human emotion weaves an unforgettable tale. Through a sunflower photo session, the transient beauty of nature is captured, preserving moments of joy, wonder, and connection. This extraordinary experience invites us to appreciate the magic that exists within a sunflower's petals and the transformative power of immersing ourselves in the natural world. In South Jersey's sunflower fields, a visual masterpiece is born, celebrating the radiant splendor of nature and the boundless joy it brings to those who are fortunate enough to witness it
It's no wonder that New Jersey is the epicenter of greatness. With an abundance of farmland and delicious produce that we share with the world, that we are the BEST on the east coast as far as tasty produce goes. Well.. we definitely can put the "garden" in the garden state, too.
One thing we also rock at are sunflowers. From July 4th to early October, you can generally see these beauties all over this precious land. These beautiful sunny and yellow golden babies are a sight to see and always bring a smile to one's faces. It's no wonder they are a beloved flower. They can typically last up to 3-4 weeks in the right conditions.
One thing I like to offer my customers are sunflower sessions every year. I am quite obsessed with flower sessions and like to incorporate a lot of them into my session offerings. I typically do flower photos all year round!
Here is a session I did recently, of a family I truly love. I see these guys a few times a year. It's always a pleasure to photograph!!
Sunsets and Sunflowers are the spice of life!
Vintage kids sessions in the sunflower fields of South Jersey. We love doing these every single July and have relationships with many farmers in the New Jersey area for sunflower sessions.
Vintage Sunflower Photography Sessions: Capturing Timeless Beauty
Step into a world filled with timeless beauty and ethereal charm with our vintage sunflower sessions. At Shooting Star Photography, we believe that every photoshoot should tell a unique story. And what better way to capture the magic than amidst a field of vibrant sunflowers?
Sunflowers, with their golden petals and towering stems, have long been associated with happiness, love, and positive energy. They exude a sense of nostalgia and invoke memories of carefree summers and simpler times. With our vintage sunflower sessions, we aim to transport you back to an era of elegance and grace.
We meticulously curate the backdrop utilizing at least four local sites in south jersey that have sunflowers for your session, selecting the most picturesque sunflower fields and weaving in vintage elements to create an enchanting atmosphere. Picture yourself wrapped in vintage lace, standing amidst waves of sunflowers, their petals dancing gently in the breeze. The warm hues of the sunflowers combined with soft, natural lighting result in photographs that are simply breathtaking.
It is not just images, but emotions and stories. With their unique blend of creativity and technical expertise, they ensure that every image taken during a vintage sunflower session is a work of art. From spontaneous laughter to stolen glances, their keen eye will capture the authenticity of your connection, preserving those precious moments forever.
What makes vintage sunflower sessions truly special is the wonderful feeling it evokes in everyone involved. It is a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in a dream-like world. Whether it’s a romantic couple session, a fun-filled family shoot, or a stunning solo portrait, our vintage sunflower sessions offer an unforgettable experience for all.
So, unleash your inner free spirit, let the sunflowers guide your journey, and allow us to document the beauty and joy that unfolds. Celebrate the beauty of life and love with our vintage sunflower sessions—a truly magical way to create cherished memories that will stand the test of time.
I love working with children. As a mom, I know how important it is to capture these precious moments in your little's lives. They grow so quickly. That's why it's important to get in the moment photographs. We don't want cheesy smiles, we want to invoke real emotion. We want the families we work with to have fun during their sessions and for the kiddos to enjoy it as well.
There's nothing like letting children "play" while getting their portraits done. It tells a story. Their story of who they are. It tells the family's story and how they interact as a family. Sunflowers are one of my most favorite sessions and I think it's evident in the images we create.
Kiddos having fun in the sunflower fields. It’s always a fun time!
Love how vintage you can make sunflowers!
As you can see, all you need is beautiful light, a great setting (like these lovely sunnies) and beautiful subjects and this is what you can create! I truly love whites a blues as wardrobe options for sunflowers. These color choices, the subject generally pops.
Happy Shooting my friends! Enjoy the sunflowers this year! I have enjoyed all the families that have come my way!!
-Dee
Shooting Star Photography
