The most magical beach sessions in New Jersey!

Jersey Shore Beach Photographer

A portrait session at the Jersey Shore captures the unique blend of serene beauty and vibrant energy that defines this coastal region. As the sun dips low over the horizon, casting a golden hue across the sandy beaches, every moment becomes infused with a touch of magic. The sound of crashing waves provides a soothing backdrop, while the salty breeze carries with it a sense of freedom and adventure.

Against this picturesque backdrop, individuals and families come together to freeze time and create lasting memories. The photographer expertly frames each shot, preserving not just smiles and poses, but also the genuine emotions that emerge when loved ones gather in such a captivating setting.

The Jersey Shore's charm lies in its ability to evoke nostalgia for carefree days gone by, while simultaneously inspiring hope for tomorrow's possibilities. In this fleeting moment during the portrait session, all worries seem to melt away, leaving only the joy of being present amidst such natural beauty.

Whether it's a candid shot of children playing in the surf or a tender embrace between partners against a painted sky, each photograph tells a story of connection, love, and the enduring magic found at the Jersey Shore.

Magical beach moments in Sea Isle City, New Jersey.

Playing in the ocean at Ocean City, New Jersey.

Brother and sister moment in Wildwood, NJ.

At Townsend’s inlet in Sea Isle. Kids just playing in the sand.

Cape May bay side. Beautiful sunsets can be found here.

Sea Isle City, Wildwood, and Ocean City are all fantastic choices for family beach sessions. These beach towns offer a perfect combination of stunning natural beauty and a wide range of family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking to capture playful moments in the sand, stunning sunsets by the ocean, or simply create lasting memories with your loved ones, these destinations have it all.

Sea Isle City is known for its pristine white sandy beaches, rolling dunes, and beautiful ocean views. It provides the perfect backdrop for timeless family portraits. With its laid-back atmosphere and smaller crowds, Sea Isle City offers a peaceful and relaxed environment, allowing families to truly connect with each other. The picturesque bayfront area also provides an opportunity for unique and diverse photo opportunities.

Wildwood, on the other hand, is famous for its vibrant boardwalk and amusement parks. It's a hub of family-friendly activities, making it an ideal spot for capturing fun and dynamic moments. From riding the thrilling roller coasters to playing mini-golf or indulging in delicious treats at the various boardwalk eateries, Wildwood offers endless entertainment for all ages.

The colorful boardwalk lights and lively atmosphere add a touch of excitement and playfulness to any family beach session.

Ocean City, known as "America's Greatest Family Resort," lives up to its reputation with its inviting beaches and plethora of family-oriented attractions. Its well-maintained boardwalk is perfect for capturing candid shots of families strolling along, ice cream cones in hand. The expansive beaches also provide ample space for children to build sandcastles, fly kites, or play beach games, ensuring that the whole family can have fun while creating beautiful memories.

All three destinations offer a wide range of beachfront accommodation options, making it convenient and comfortable for families to enjoy their beach sessions. They also boast a variety of local shops and restaurants, allowing families to extend their beach sessions by exploring these charming coastal towns.

Whether you prefer a serene and intimate atmosphere, a lively and adventurous experience, or a combination of both, Sea Isle City, Wildwood, and Ocean City have something to offer every family. These locations are guaranteed to provide breathtaking backdrops for your family beach session, ensuring that you will have cherished photographs to treasure for a lifetime.

The Jersey shore can give many varieties of looks for any type of beach shoot.

 I LOVE the beach and would say this is the type of photography I thrive in. I believe my work stands out from the rest in regards to beach photography.  I have scoured beaches from Central Jersey down to the shores of Cape May.. to the Delaware Bay to offer my clients the BEST and most private beach locations in the industry and area. It's the work that I tend to get known for and win awards for. The pastel colors and skies... the light.. I am quite particular when it comes to my work and the lighting situations that I like to use for my clients. 

I am all about giving my best so that my customers have photographs that they will cherish for decades to come.  There's something quite special about beach photography. Maybe it's the wind.. the waves.. the calmness.. the light. Most folks, seem to be transformed and more relaxed for these types of sessions. Perhaps, it's the feet dipping into the soft Jersey sand. It's odd that we have different colored sand from beautiful white and soft.. to more tan or river mud in the area, depending on the ecology and area of New Jersey. 

I love coordinating colors that will just pop at the beach. I love color and you'll see this a lot in the work I provide. Most photographers, tend to blow out their highlights because they aren't too familiar with beach photography or their lighting. You'll see flash being used at midday. For me, that's unacceptable. I understand that flash is used to help balance out the harsh shadows from the sun of the beach and understand WHY sometimes it is used.

Maybe for certain nap times for the little ones and the reason why needs to be taken at this time... but for me lighting is important. I want soft beautiful light and there's a method to my madness. In regards to the locations I use and my lighting choices. If you would like to book your Southern Jersey beach session for 2018, I recommend so shortly! We only offer a limited amount of beach sessions per year and they are sold out every time!I would love to capture these beautiful moments for you!   

Happy Shooting, my friend!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Another Beautiful Maternity Session!

Maternity Session on Broad Street in Philadelphia

A serene maternity session unfolded on the bustling Broad Street in Philadelphia, capturing the essence of motherhood amidst the city's energy. The expectant mother, accompanied by her two young children, radiated a timeless beauty and grace against the urban backdrop.

As the photographer expertly framed each shot, the children's joyful spirits added a touch of playfulness to the session. Against the backdrop of iconic city architecture, the family connection shone through, creating an unforgettable tableau of love and anticipation.

The juxtaposition of the maternal glow and the metropolitan pulse of Broad Street lent a unique charm to the photographs, showcasing the beauty of new beginnings against the backdrop of a vibrant cityscape. The images captured during this maternity session serve as a timeless memento of a family immersed in love, set against the dynamic backdrop of Philadelphia's bustling streets.

Mom and her two children capturing this special moment in their lives. Bringing in another sibling to the mix. Notice how we coordinated their outfits to go together, but did not go matchy matchy.

Maternity Photographer in South Jersey

Broad Street can offer the perfect location for your maternity session. It’s a great spot to shoot at in Philadelphia.

Sweet hugs for mom. She just wanted to be held by her mommy.

Great portrait of mom on Broad Street.

Isn’t she absolutely stunning?

One more for the mix!

I think someone fell behind me… hence the look on her face. She’s a trip!

Sisters being sisters.

Top Two Reasons to Have a Maternity Portrait with Your Kids

As professional photographers, we highly recommend capturing maternity portraits that include your kids. It is a delightful opportunity to not only document this special phase of your life but also create everlasting memories. This photo shoot we did on Broad Street in Philadelphia. It is a fantastic backdrop for maternity and couture photography. Here are the top two reasons why you should consider having your maternity portrait with your kids:

1. Celebrating the Journey Together: Including your children in your maternity portraits allows them to actively participate in celebrating the arrival of their new sibling. Pregnancy is a significant milestone not only for you but also for your children, as it signifies the growth of your family. By involving them, you are enabling them to share in the joy and anticipation of your expanding household. These portraits will serve as cherished keepsakes, reminding your children of the excitement they felt during this unique period. As they grow older, they can look back on these images and feel a deep sense of connection and love for their siblings.

2. Siblings Bonding and Connection: Maternity portraits with your kids offer a wonderful opportunity for them to connect with their unborn sibling. During the photo session, they can touch your belly, interact with the baby, and even share special moments of love and tenderness. This experience allows siblings to forge a bond early on, creating a foundation of affection and care that will continue to grow as they grow older together. Maternity portraits featuring siblings provide a visual representation of this connection, capturing their relationship at its beginning stages.
At Shooting Star Photography, we recognize the importance of family dynamics and the role siblings play in shaping each other's lives. By having your maternity portrait with your kids, you are not only preserving precious memories but also celebrating the joy and love that your growing family embodies. Let us help you capture these beautiful moments, ensuring that they remain cherished for generations to come.

 Have I told you I love maternity photography? I tend to shout this from the rooftops... all the time! If I could do maternity photography every single day.. I honestly would be happy and content in my career. Seriously, this is one of my favorite times to capture in life. This is the time where our bodies are changing and we tend to feel pretty awful at the end. I felt like a whale and never got them done, but I do wish I did. I want women to feel beautiful.

This is my goal with every session. I want those insecurities to not even be a second thought. I love including the family in this special time to be a part of the celebration of new life arriving. New members to their families. Allow us to celebrate this time with your family and to have these memories to hold onto forever. Let us celebrate this joy that is arriving. Our goal is to capture these sweet moments. To truly capture the essence of your family and to have these beautiful heirlooms to look back on for generations. 

So bring on those baby bumps! I want to see them! I want to capture them! We have over 25 maternity gowns to capture this most incredible time in your life. We want you to feel absolutely beautiful in your own skin. So if you are looking for the BEST maternity photographer in the Philadelphia area.. I am your girl.

I have been considered the top 25 maternity photographers in the Delaware Valley two years in a row (I wasn't even aware of this selection or reward). They reached out to me and said it was due to market research. Congratulations to this mama who brought into this world another beautiful baby girl! Contact us today and we'll be glad to get you started!! We'd love to capture this time in your life and include your family!  

Happy Shooting my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

Breakfast at Tiffany's Shoot!-Philadelphia Photographer

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

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

Close up of this natural beauty!

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

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.

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.

Will you marry me?

Putting on the ring!

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

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

The doors and colors add for great texture.

Eastern State Penitentiary rocks!

The genuine love they have for another is incredible!

Eastern State Penitentiary. A fantastic photo shoot location!

Kisses and love!

We wanted to have a little fun!

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  

Beach Photography in Ocean City!

Laughing and having fun on the Ocean City, New Jersey beach!

Dreaming of your next year’s summer vacation in Ocean City, NJ already? Ocean city is one of our favorite New Jersey destination shore towns. Great boardwalks, food, family friendly atmosphere, semi-private and clean beaches. Your session with us (Shooting Star). The list goes on as to why Ocean City, NJ is a great beach location choice for your photography needs.

One of my favorite spots in Ocean City is the fishing pier as it offers a medley of cool backdrops.

Check out these two ladies who we photographed. I bought a little “beach tent” and decorated it with some string lights. We put out rainbow colored starfish, linen fabric draped over the frame and a nice magical lantern for that extra bit of pop needed for your portraits. Not to mention I added in some fun as these girls are laughing their hineys off! Hey, there’s nothing like a kid enjoying the beach. Am I right?

Bright and vibrant colors are always a great choice for wardrobe for your beach portraits as you see how we styled that here.

Our photographs truly shine when it comes to beach photography. It's one of the many types of sessions that I take the utmost pride in.  I LOVE the Jersey shore and the Delaware Bay sunsets.  It's truly the best time to be in New Jersey and the Jersey shore during the summer months.  Especially, during the week, as it's not too busy.It's no wonder that folks come from all over the East Coast to enjoy a beautiful beach vacation in our backyard. 

This year, Ellie Belly Photography (out of Lancaster, PA) and I are teaming up to do mermaid sessions. These sessions are sold out.  We are doing two dates together and am very excited to be working with her as she's not only a great friend, but an even more excellent artist. All of our beach sessions are sold out this year.  I am very excited to do these and to offer some top of the line clothing pieces for these sessions.  I can't wait to post and show you what we will be creating. I love the pastel colors of the beach and that beautiful twilight/sunset light of the summer. 

All sessions are sold out until September of this year. If you would like to book a fall session, I would suggest to reserve your date now. I believe there are only 8 dates left to choose from for this fall. Thank you for allowing me to photograph you and your family and looking forward to many sessions on the upcoming horizon!  It's going to be a fun year!!!    Let’s have fun fun and get some OC boardwalk fudge or some salt water taffy!

Happy, Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Ocean City beach photographer extraordinaire