Fine Art Family Photography Stories & Resources

little girl in a vintage dress hugging a pony in an orchard outside of Philadelphia for a sweet moment

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.

Family Photographer In South Jersey- Croft Farm Cherry Hill

Family Photographer In South Jersey- Croft Farm Cherry Hill

Family photography at Croft Farm in Cherry Hill, NJ never disappoints!

Family photography at Croft Farm in Cherry Hill, NJ never disappoints!

Shooting Star Photography LLC
Date: 03/20/2024

Thank you for considering Shooting Star Photography for your family photo shoot at Croft Farm in Cherry Hill, NJ. We are delighted at the opportunity to capture your cherished moments in the picturesque setting of the farm.

At Shooting Star Photography, we ensure a seamless and professional experience for our clients. Our skilled photographer will work with you to create beautiful and timeless family portraits that you can treasure for years to come.

Please feel free to reach out to us for more information or to schedule your photo shoot. We look forward to providing you with exceptional service and stunning photographs during your visit to Croft Farm in Cherry Hill, NM.

Warm regards,
Shooting Star Photography LLC

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All smiles at Croft Farm in Cherry Hill.

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Love throwing leaves at the kids. It always brings in smiles!

 As the year comes to an end, I look back in wonderment. How the heck did I get through this past year? I did 553 sessions. This does includes minis, but that is a huge number and lots of families in which I served this past year.  I've had the pleasure in working with families all over the place. From Virginia to Connecticut, folks traveled to do sessions with us. I honestly feel honored.As the year winds to an end, I look back and feel grateful. I feel grateful that you chose us to capture your beloved memories. You allowed us to come into your lives and to capture some fleeting childhood moments. For this, I thank you!I look back upon this year. Small changes will be made going forward. I finally see the light at the end of the tunnel in this roller coaster photography journey. I've finally gotten a hold of WHERE I wish to go as a photographer. 

2018 A New Journey

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Kids running and playing. Taking care of little sister!

 This year, I have some BIG plans in the works. I am going to be doing new things that you haven't seen in this industry. I am going to push myself further as an artist. Change things up.  I am not going to fear new things. 

EVERYONE GENERALLY HAS GOALS FOR THE NEW YEAR

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Kisses for my sister!

Yes, it is true. People have goals as they approach the New Year. My goals are nothing short of anything new. I am very excited for new locations, new clients, my tried and true clients and everyone in between. 

What are your goals for this upcoming year? Your dreams? Your desires? It's time to make this happen.

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Love this little cutie with the pink boots! All photos taken at Croft Farm in Cherry Hill, NJ.

Top 3 Reasons to Have a Photo Shoot at Croft Farm in Cherry Hill, NJ

If you're looking for a picturesque location for your next photo shoot, look no further than Croft Farm in Cherry Hill, NJ. Nestled in a serene and natural setting, this venue offers a multitude of stunning backdrops that will enhance your photographs. Here are the top three reasons why Croft Farm is the perfect spot for your next photo shoot:

1. Natural Beauty and Versatility

Croft Farm is renowned for its natural beauty, making it an ideal location for capturing stunning photographs. The farm features some open fields, walking trails, charming old barn area, and a tranquil pond, allowing you to choose a backdrop that complements your desired style. Whether you're looking for a rustic, whimsical, or elegant setting, Croft Farm can cater to all your photography needs.
In addition to its natural beauty, Croft Farm offers a versatile range of shooting locations within its premises. You can explore various settings, including the beautifully landscaped gardens, picturesque trails, or even incorporate the historic farm buildings into your shots. With such diverse options, your photos will have a unique and captivating touch.

2. Privacy and Serenity

One of the standout advantages of Croft Farm is its seclusion and privacy. Away from the bustling city, this venue offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere, providing the perfect environment to capture intimate and genuine moments. The tranquility of the farm allows you and your subjects to relax, enabling the photographer to capture authentic emotions and create truly memorable images.
Furthermore, Croft Farm is a lesser-known gem, meaning you're unlikely to encounter crowded scenes or interruptions during your photo session. You'll have the freedom to explore the grounds without any distractions, giving you ample opportunities to create magical and undisturbed photographs.

3. Convenient Location and Amenities

Situated in Cherry Hill, NJ, Croft Farm offers a convenient location for your photo shoot. Its proximity to major roads and highways, including Route 70 and Interstate 295, allows for easy access, making it a hassle-free location for clients and photographers alike.


Additionally, the property offers convenient amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. You'll find ample parking spaces, clean restroom facilities, and well-maintained walking paths throughout the venue. These amenities, coupled with the farm's ease of navigation, create the perfect conditions for a smooth and seamless photo shoot.

Capture Cherished Moments at Croft Farm in Cherry Hill


Croft Farm in Cherry Hill is an idyllic location for families to create lasting memories during a mini session. Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, this enchanting venue offers the perfect backdrop for capturing the love and joy shared by families. Its sprawling green fields, vibrant flower gardens, and rustic barns provide a charming setting that effortlessly complements the beauty of family dynamics. Whether it's a game of tag, a tender embrace, or a spontaneous burst of laughter, Croft Farm captures these cherished moments with its natural beauty.

The tranquil atmosphere and the scenic surroundings instill a sense of calmness, allowing families to relax, connect, and simply be themselves, resulting in authentic, heartfelt photographs. A mini session at Croft Farm in Cherry Hill ensures that families not only receive stunning images but also create memories that will be cherished for generations to come.


In conclusion, Croft Farm in Cherry Hill, NJ offers a myriad of reasons why it should be your next photo shoot destination. Its natural beauty, versatility, privacy, and convenient location make it a truly desirable location for capturing unforgettable images. Whether you're planning a family portrait session, engagement shoot, or a creative fashion shoot, Croft Farm will undoubtedly provide the perfect backdrop for your photography needs.

 My ultimate goal is to make this the best year on record. Hold on to your seats because it's about to get bumpy. Bumpy is a GREAT thing as an artist. It's what keeps you on your toes. I am ready to tippy toe like a hippopotamus ballerina. I hope everyone enjoyed their Christmas in the Philly area and are enjoying time with their friends and family. I look forward to working with you next year! 

Happy Shooting! 

Dee

Shooting Star Photography located in Southern New Jersey

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Storytelling Through Photography- Personal Family Photography

You are storytelling in this work-Family Photographer in South Jersey

You have one story and then something happens and it changes you.. your perspective and I believe this is where I am now. My perspective has changed recently.

This is the stage where you start to have an understanding and become a master of some sort of training of your eye.Now, finally telling my story, my eye and the story of the subjects that I am capturing... THE STORY through the photographs we create.

I urge anyone in photography to be involved in groups when you start out a bit. What I mean by groups, is Facebook groups catered to professionals/amateurs. Use this valuable info in these groups to hone the technical basics.

You are storytelling in this work-Family Photographer in South Jersey

You have one story and then something happens and it changes you.. your perspective and I believe this is where I am now. My perspective has changed recently.

This is the stage where you start to have an understanding and become a master of some sort of training of your eye.Now, finally telling my story, my eye and the story of the subjects that I am capturing... THE STORY through the photographs we create.

I urge anyone in photography to be involved in groups when you start out a bit. What I mean by groups, is Facebook groups catered to professionals/amateurs. Use this valuable info in these groups to hone the technical basics.

Train your eye... but am suggesting to stop there. Take a Damien's class. This will get you started in Photoshop and learning your way around. Watch YouTube videos. You'll find there are 5 ways to do something in Photoshop to get the same result, but learn interesting methods to get yourself there.

Find photographers to follow and love

Then list 5 photographers of completely different styles.Maybe one does family who is up close and personal on their photographs, one does couture, one has mastered lighting (which this is the realm I'm wanting to learn more of myself), one is photo journalistic and maybe one does weddings, but they kill it.. they are consistent and kill it across the board. This is who you need to follow.

These are the folks you can be inspired by.

I finally consider myself an artist. It took me two years to say this.

I think this past year (year 2 in business) has been an eye opener for me. I started out this 2017 year going in the direction I thought I wanted to get into, but I see so many others doing the same things these days and... it's just time to just do me. I don't need fancy dresses or a fancy wardrobe to attain a great image. I feel I have a well understanding of light to get an image I seek out to achieve.

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Try new things and push yourself

 I feel the need to push myself out of my own barrier now. I want to be on my toes and feel like I lost that a bit this year. I lost the will to challenge myself. Don't get me wrong... I did... challenge myself, but I need to delve even farther and deeper.

I got BORED. Boredom kills spontaneity and anything organic that can arise from and work will become monotonous. I took too much on this last year with clients, not allowing time for my creative self to learn and flourish.

Well, times are a changing and now going forward, will be making that time and taking less client work on.I will be doing more projects to feed my creative soul and I cannot wait. It's full steam ahead. I'm not looking back and am excited to see what lies ahead.

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One thing of advice I can give to folks starting out in this business ... never stop being you, DO NOT undercharge/undervalue yourself, never stop learning.... and most importantly.... you're going to learn to say no a lot. It's hard to say no... because starting out, you are so eager to build your business, or to get any business at all. You're hungry to just shoot.

It's okay to say NO.

I said no to clients a lot...this last year I'd have requests for events, parties, weddings, cake smashes... but my heart was just never into them. Even though I did do these ^ because wanted to test the waters and see if I would like them. I know now that I don't like them.. because I at least tried them. So don't be afraid to get your feet wet. Once getting your feet wet, decide on where you wish to go and what you LOVE and take it from there. This is where you'll find your mojo, in the heat of battle trying new things.

But most importantly don't be afraid to say no and if it's a session you don't wish and you dislike, that's okay. It's okay to say no, if your heart is not into it.No one is holding a gun to your head. Always trust your gut. I promise you this, once you start doing what you love, the world soon becomes your oyster. You start attracting the clients you always wanted and dreamed of because that passion shines through in your work and then the magic starts to unfold. It has unfolded for me and my passion for what I do remains strong.

I value myself, my clients and the work I put out there in the universe. I want always my best forward and out there. 

If you read this far^ I give you a standing ovation.  Kudos and bravo to you. I need to log off. More editing to do :) but seriously read what I wrote above, if you are feeling a little lost as a photographer this winter season. 

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BEFORE AND AFTER EDITING PROCESS - Southern New Jersey Photographer

Before and After Editing Process- behind the scenes.

As a photographer, it is crucial to show before and after edits of our work for several reasons. Firstly, it allows us to demonstrate our skills and expertise in post-processing techniques. By showcasing the original image alongside its edited version, we can highlight the artistic decisions made and the enhancements achieved. This helps potential clients understand the level of creativity and attention to detail we bring to our photography. Additionally, displaying before and after edits helps in managing expectations. Clients can get a realistic understanding of how editing can elevate and transform an image, ensuring they are satisfied with the final result. Ultimately, sharing before and after edits not only showcases our abilities but also builds trust and transparency with our audience.

Before and After Edit

At Shooting Star Photography LLC, witness the transformative power of editing in our before and after images. Our skilled editors enhance the raw beauty captured in each photograph, bringing out the best in every shot. See how subtle adjustments can make a world of difference, elevating ordinary snapshots into extraordinary works of art. Trust us to perfect your precious memories and turn them into timeless masterpieces.

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Before and After Editing Process- behind the scenes.

As a photographer, it is crucial to show before and after edits of our work for several reasons. Firstly, it allows us to demonstrate our skills and expertise in post-processing techniques. By showcasing the original image alongside its edited version, we can highlight the artistic decisions made and the enhancements achieved. This helps potential clients understand the level of creativity and attention to detail we bring to our photography. Additionally, displaying before and after edits helps in managing expectations. Clients can get a realistic understanding of how editing can elevate and transform an image, ensuring they are satisfied with the final result. Ultimately, sharing before and after edits not only showcases our abilities but also builds trust and transparency with our audience.

Every year, we generally use my friend's peony field in Gloucester County, NJ. Most folks ask... what is a peony?  A peony flower resembles huge rose flowers... They bloom for maybe two weeks tops and they are extremely fragrant. Peak time is generally at height around Memorial Day weekend. There's a few farms in the area. Our Outer Coastal plan in New Jersey allows great growing conditions of plants and vegetables and is why it is called the Garden State. However, this past year with the weird warmup we had in the winter.. Bloom times were heavily affected. We had to cancel our annual peony farm sessions this year.

A lot of bloom times were affected. Peach crops were apparently going to also be affected another year in a row. It was a strange spring. I hope that 2018's spring will be much different.I wanted to show a little bit of what we do behind the scenes on the editing process. We don't just take a photo and hand it over to you. We lovingly go over every single image to make it truly shine. This is why we take the time we do, to have them back to you. I am at home working most nights until 3 am to 4 am in the morning. 

Our schedule is very busy and this part time business, has turned into almost a 24/7 operation.I have trained under some of the best of the industry to give my clients the very best. I believe in education and that is key at all times to continue to grow, learn and provide the best for customers. I am constantly learning new things. In regards to the peony sessions, I rarely show my before and afters... but wanted to show you what things look out of camera and what your final product may be. Some of our specialty sessions, like our unicorn sessions.. tend to be even more work. I don't believe in changing children's faces or features. I have seen this done many times in our industry. Everything, tends to get "cooked to death" as I like to say or completely Photoshopped to death.

My goal is just enhancement. EVERYTHING is edited by hand. Peony field. Southern New Jersey. Before and after editing process.Top left is out of camera. It was actually overcast and raining during this session. Full image is the final edited product in which my clients received. I would say not my BEST WORK. However, it still goes to show the in depth process of what we do.I want my clients to look back on their photos (years from now) and see art and beauty, but see their children and themselves as they truly are. I don't like to lose skin texture or affect features.

This is why we take the time we do to make sure each and every photograph that you choose in the editing process.. looks like a superstar, but not overly processed.  We also stylized this shoot. The color white and vintage ALWAYS looks beautiful virtually anywhere. It reflects timelessness. Most likely, you won't look back at this image in 5 years and say it is out of style or clothing choices.. what was I thinking? This image was taken two years ago and still just as beautiful today! 

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

NJ Portrait Photographer

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Breakfast at Tiffany's Shoot!-Philadelphia Photographer

Breakfast at Tiffany’s Photo shoot in Philadelphia!

Who doesn't love the movie, Breakfast at Tiffany's? Audrey Hepburn in an elegant updo... Classy and sophisticated clothing. It was a dawn of the new age in the 60's. A booming economy after World War II. The start of the baby boomer generation. I love true elegance. It's what our photography company in the Delaware Valley is all about. This is why we offer the styling and dress selection for all our clients. We have tremendous offerings. From vintage, to classic, to elegant, to maternity.. from headpieces... right down to the socks to wear.

Breakfast at Tiffany's Inspired Photo Shoot in Philadelphia @Tiffany's

Greetings from Shooting Star Photography LLC! We are excited to share that we recently had a wonderful opportunity to capture a Breakfast at Tiffany's inspired photo shoot right at Tiffany's in Philadelphia. The iconic elegance and charm of the timeless classic was brought to life against the backdrop of this historic city.

Our team was thrilled to play with the sophisticated styles and classic glamour reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn's iconic character. From the elegant black dresses to the statement accessories, every detail exuded a touch of vintage charm blended with modern sophistication.

The shoot captured the essence of a luxurious breakfast setting, with the beautiful Tiffany's store as the perfect setting. The soft morning light filtering through the windows added a dreamy quality to the photographs, enhancing the overall elegance of the scene.

The models exuded grace and style, perfectly embodying the classic Breakfast at Tiffany's aesthetic. Their poses and expressions conveyed a sense of timeless beauty and sophistication that truly brought the theme to life.

As photographers, it was a delight to work in such an iconic location and bring a beloved story to life through our lens. The juxtaposition of classic elegance and urban chic in the heart of Philadelphia provided a unique and unforgettable backdrop for this special photo shoot.

We are eager to share the final images from this enchanting Breakfast at Tiffany's inspired photo shoot and hope that they capture the essence of this timeless tale in a fresh and captivating way.

Thank you for joining us on this creative journey as we continue to explore new inspirations and push the boundaries of our artistry.

Warm regards, Shooting Star Photography LLC

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Such a classic black and white portrait. Our Breakfast at Tiffany’s Philadelphia photo shoot!

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Close up of this natural beauty!

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Twirling around in front of Tiffany’s!

Breakfast at Tiffany's: An Iconic and Enchanting Photography Session


Breakfast at Tiffany's, the classic 1961 film directed by Blake Edwards, has captivated audiences for decades with its timeless charm and sophisticated aesthetic. The film, based on Truman Capote's novella of the same name, tells the story of Holly Golightly, a free-spirited young woman living in New York City, and her unlikely bond with a struggling writer.
With its romanticized portrayal of the glamorous Upper East Side of Manhattan, Breakfast at Tiffany's has become an iconic symbol of elegance and style. The film's visual allure, enhanced by the enchanting presence of Audrey Hepburn, is the perfect inspiration for a photography session that seeks to capture the essence of sophistication, grace, and the allure of the city.


First and foremost, Audrey Hepburn's character, Holly Golightly, epitomizes quintessential elegance. Her iconic little black dress and timeless updo have become synonymous with the epitome of chic fashion. A photography session inspired by Breakfast at Tiffany's allows photographers to recreate this stunning look, capturing the beauty and grace of Hepburn's character. The session could showcase the model in a dazzling black dress, with carefully styled hair and accessories, echoing the film's signature style and creating a visual feast for the eyes.


Moreover, Breakfast at Tiffany's offers a wealth of stunning settings that lend themselves effortlessly to photography. Hepburn's visits to Tiffany & Co's flagship store on Fifth Avenue represent not only her own love for luxurious treasures but also the allure of the gleaming city itself. The session could incorporate elements of the enchanting window displays, with the model gazing captivatingly at the sparkling jewelry, capturing a sense of wonder and romance. Additionally, incorporating New York City's iconic landmarks, such as Central Park or Grand Central Terminal, would infuse the photography session with a touch of urban sophistication, transporting the viewer into the heart of the city that never sleeps.


Furthermore, the themes explored in Breakfast at Tiffany's resonate deeply with a wide audience. Beneath the glitz and glamour lies a story of longing, personal transformation, and the search for true love and identity. A photography session inspired by the film can beautifully encapsulate these themes, evoking a sense of mystery, vulnerability, and romance. Photographers can capture the model lost in thought, perhaps perched elegantly on a fire escape, as Hepburn's character often was, revealing an air of contemplation and curiosity.


In conclusion, Breakfast at Tiffany's is an iconic and captivating film that continues to inspire and enchant audiences to this day. Its timeless elegance and portrayal of New York's sophisticated allure make it a perfect source of inspiration for a photography session. By capturing the essence of Audrey Hepburn's character, the luxurious settings, and the underlying themes of romance and self-discovery, photographers can create a visual masterpiece that transports viewers to a world of timeless style and glamour. A Breakfast at Tiffany's inspired photography session is an opportunity to capture the magic of this iconic film and create images that will endure for a lifetime.

 Who doesn't love the movie, Breakfast at Tiffany's? Audrey Hepburn in an elegant updo... Classy and sophisticated clothing. It was a dawn of the new age in the 60's. A booming economy after World War II.  The start of the baby boomer generation. I love true elegance. It's what our photography company in the Delaware Valley is all about. This is why we offer the styling and dress selection for all our clients. We have tremendous offerings. From vintage, to classic, to elegant, to maternity.. from headpieces... right down to the socks to wear.

Our goal for 2018, is to provide girls, women and boys this service from head to toe and offer the best boutique offerings in the South Jersey region.I truly believe that what you wear, can make or break your photography session. For me, it's all about the details.   We want you to truly look your best. This young lady came out for a themed Breakfast at Tiffany's shoot in Philadelphia, which is attached to the cosmopolitan Bellevue Hotel.

I find the Bellevue hotel one of the most beautiful hotels in the city. Go in and just look at their bathrooms.. they are even out of this world. A bathroom, folks!!! You could probably literally eat off the floor..  and I find bathrooms disgusting! I'm sure most do. However, this would be an exception.This precious girls mom and I got together for a shoot in the city and we had this concept for a long time. The only thing I regret is not getting the traditional baby blue/Tiffany bag to do a shoot with and utilize as a prop. We planned to and they were closed.

This session was done on a whim!I used a different focal length for this shoot. I traditionally like to use my 200mm 1.8L lens, but I decided to pull out my 55mm Zeiss, which I fall more and more in love with every time I use it! Ifind it works beautiful in tight areas and less chromatic aberration, across the board aka CA in the industry. I tend to work with both Sony and Canon bodies anymore, but traditionally I love Sony bodies in the city. I just think they perform better in low light situations.

If you would like to plan or book your Breakfast at Tiffany's shoot.. in Philly.. I would love to plan something for you! I could see even two sisters going all out in black (which I love black clothing in the city, fyi) decked out in the classic black glasses.. cigarette lighter (which I have a few on hand to use as props) and gorgeous princess-inspired updo! Let us create something special and magical for you and your beautiful family!  

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

NJ portrait photographer

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LOVE IS LOVE- Eastern Penitentiary Session in Philly.

Capturing a Gay Couple's Engagement Session at Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia

Eastern State Penitentiary, a nationally recognized historic landmark, provides a unique backdrop for capturing love and connection. As a team of experienced photographers, we understand the importance of selecting a location that truly reflects a couple's story and individuality. The hauntingly beautiful architecture and rich history of Eastern State Penitentiary offers a captivating canvas to frame unforgettable moments.

Capturing a Gay Couple's Engagement Session at Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia

Eastern State Penitentiary, a nationally recognized historic landmark, provides a unique backdrop for capturing love and connection. As a team of experienced photographers, we understand the importance of selecting a location that truly reflects a couple's story and individuality. The hauntingly beautiful architecture and rich history of Eastern State Penitentiary offers a captivating canvas to frame unforgettable moments.


Through our collaboration with this couple, we hope to set an example of love in its purest form, welcoming diversity and embracing individual identities. Our aim is to capture the essence of their love and commitment as they embark on this joyous chapter of their lives together.

When Broadway Meets History: A Memorable Day at Eastern State Penitentiary

On a crisp autumn morning, I received an unexpected email from a couple, expressing their interest in hiring Shooting Star Photography LLC. Their message was filled with excitement as they shared their plans to visit the historic Eastern State Penitentiary and capture their first-day adventure together.


These gentlemen are avid lovers of all things Broadway and musicals, were drawn to the Penitentiary's eerie charm, knowing it would provide a unique backdrop for their photo session. Their shared passion for both history and performing arts made it clear that this day would be nothing short of extraordinary.


As their designated photographer, I arrived at Eastern State Penitentiary, ready to capture the essence of their love story against the backdrop of crumbling cellblocks and haunting walls. I could already sense their energy the moment they walked through the entrance gates. Their exuberant laughter and musical whistling seemed to echo within the prison's walls, imbuing the atmosphere with a touch of delight.


Our journey through the Penitentiary was filled with awe and fascination. As we explored the halls where notorious criminals once walked, we couldn't help but discuss their favorite Broadway shows. This couple’s eyes shimmered as they reminisced about their favorite musical numbers, while both eagerly shared anecdotes about the most memorable performances he had experienced.


Against the backdrop of the penitentiary walls, they danced together, mirroring the choreography of their beloved Broadway numbers. The juxtaposition of their graceful movements against the gritty backdrop created poignant images that embodied the indomitable spirit of their love.


As the day progressed, we ventured further into the Penitentiary's cold and dimly lit cellblocks. The weathered walls seemed to whisper stories of long-forgotten inmates. Yet, with each step, they bothl brought a warmth that revived the penitentiary's forgotten halls. They playfully reenacted scenes from their favorite musicals, bringing theatrical life to each desolate cell and abandoned corridor.


Their love for Broadway and musicals was omnipresent throughout our session. From serenading each other with show tunes to posing with Broadway-themed props they had brought, Sophie and Michael proved that love can thrive even in the most unexpected settings.
As the sun began to set and cast a warm, golden glow across the Penitentiary's courtyard, I captured the last few shots. Thier enchanting journey had taken them from the vibrant world of Broadway to the chilling embrace of history, blending these disparate elements into an unforgettable experience.


Looking back on that day, I am reminded of the power of shared passions and how they can provide a unique backdrop for love. Sophie and Michael's love story unfolded in a setting where history met their beloved Broadway, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts and their cherished photographs.


Shooting Star Photography LLC is passionate about creating authentic and intimate engagements sessions that reflect the unique personalities and stories of our valued clients. Our team of skilled and versatile photographers possesses a deep understanding of the LGBTQ+ community's needs, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment throughout the entire process.


Eastern State Penitentiary's captivating ambiance and historical significance serve as a reflection of society's progress in acknowledging and recognizing love in all its forms. By capturing this milestone moment for a gay couple at Eastern State Penitentiary, Shooting Star Photography LLC aims to inspire and empower others to embrace their true selves, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

As we move forward, we will continue to champion love and inclusivity, pouring our hearts into every engagement session we undertake. Join us in celebrating the diversity that enriches our lives and the incredible stories that unfold with Shooting Star!


For media inquiries or to learn more about Shooting Star Photography LLC and our commitment to inclusivity, please contact us!

Eastern State Penitentiary is an awe-inspiring location for a photo shoot in Philly due to its unique blend of historical charm and haunting beauty. This former prison, with its crumbling cell blocks and deteriorating walls, provides a captivating backdrop that transports photographers and subjects alike to another era. The immense scale of the penitentiary, with its soaring Gothic architecture and imposing entrance, offers endless opportunities to create impactful and dramatic images. The shadows cast by the decaying infrastructure add an eerie and mysterious atmosphere, perfect for capturing compelling and evocative shots. Whether aiming for a gritty urban aesthetic or a moody, ethereal tone, Eastern State Penitentiary is a truly mesmerizing location that will undoubtedly result in striking and memorable photographs.

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Will you marry me?

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Putting on the ring!

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Love this!I Love Eastern State. Love this happy couple.

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We were able to be guided into some of the “secret rooms” at Eastern State. This place is uber awesome!

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The doors and colors add for great texture.

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Eastern State Penitentiary rocks!

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The genuine love they have for another is incredible!

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Eastern State Penitentiary. A fantastic photo shoot location!

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Kisses and love!

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We wanted to have a little fun!

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Leaving Eastern State. What an amazing day!

When I was contacted by these two dapper gentlemen, I couldn't refuse!  I don't do engagement photography anymore, but I knew this would be something fun and special.  I wanted to capture the fun, the excitement and the love these two had for each other! I got to know a little about themselves prior to the shoot and their energy is something I really wanted to capture.We set out for Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia on a brisk Saturday morning.  

I did not know that he was going to propose! What a wonderful surprise this was and what an incredible location!

A permit is required, however... it really is a lovely setting for photography... despite its past usage. The colors and the light make this place come alive. As we were there, a surprise engagement ensued. As you can see the shock on his face! Absolutely adorable! The whole room was shedding a tear!

  We then set off to finalize our engagement shoot! And boy did we have flipping blast!!! I really want to thank these guys for allowing me to capture these beautiful moments for them! I know they will be living happily ever after!!! 

If you would like to book a specialized engagement session with me, I would love to do so! Thank you Eastern State Penitentiary for your services and your time in making this a special day!  I plan on offering a unique shoot here this upcoming winter! 

Happy Shooting! 

Dee  

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