Check out what we have in store this winter!

Magical Unicorn Sessions in South Jersey!

Magical unicorn sessions are a whimsical and enchanting experience where the focus is on capturing the beauty and charm of these mystical creatures. At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we bring your unicorn dreams to life through our expertly crafted sessions. Our team is dedicated to creating a magical atmosphere where you can bond with these fantastical beings and create stunning, one-of-a-kind images.

During a magical unicorn session, you can expect a neutral and professional approach as we work to document the unique connection between you and the unicorn. Our skilled photographers are experienced in capturing the essence of these magical moments, ensuring that each image reflects the wonder and joy of the experience.

Whether you're looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a bit of fantasy, our magical unicorn sessions are sure to leave you spellbound. Contact us today to schedule your own enchanting session and let us help you create memories that will last a lifetime.

Petting her unicorn in the most magical South Jersey forest.

Unicorns are undeniably awesome creatures that capture our imagination with their mystical charm. With their beautiful, ethereal appearance and the mesmerizing shimmer of their single, spiral horn, unicorns embody a world of magic and wonder. These enchanting beings symbolize purity, grace, and strength, inspiring us to believe in the extraordinary. Beyond their ethereal beauty, unicorns are also known for their innate ability to bring joy and happiness, making them beloved by people of all ages. Whether it's in mythical tales or modern folklore, unicorns hold a special place in our hearts as a symbol of hope and fantastical adventures.

Even though you tend to see similar themes in the industry, I try to make those themes unique and my own. It's the distinctive style that folks hire me for. It's something I have strived and worked on and with only 2 years in this business (Yep, incorporated in February 2015), I still have a lot of growing pains to work out. For example, overbooking, charging not my worth with the quality I continue to push out. I purchase these high end designer gowns in the $500-$700 range and then charged $250 a session with all digitals.

This will wear anyone out.. but this is also the story of anyone new in this industry. Who hasn't figured things out and needs to make adjustments as you move forward... to just be overall BETTER.This July we are doing Magical Unicorn Sessions.. in a Winterland theme. Lots of winter greens will be used. Winter capes, furs, the whole nines. Today, after a few issues in getting the correct converter for the output of our heavy duty snow machine, we finally put things through the ringer and everything is working as planned. So for our upcoming unicorn sessions, we will have snow. REAL SNOW. Not a snow overlay.

We want folks to have a magical experience whenever we come to us and we feel this will be an added benefit.  Here's a video of the snow machine hooked up to our vehicle for our test run... It was a success! We can't wait to use it for upcoming sessions! 

Another thing I wanted to stretch on...

With Facebook’s new algorithm of changes that occurred last month, it’s more and more important as not just photographers, but overall small business owners to keep their websites up to date with the most current information. Facebook has made it harder and harder for you to reach your audience because they want you to PAY to be seen.

This is where blogging comes into play. You should be updating on current work, projects, or happenings. Most say people don’t read this stuff, but they do. This is important and vital. I receive a about 30% of my business via web searches. Facebook was the majority last year, however with recent changes, it’s become fewer in between. The reach is abysmal especially when launching specials, mini sessions, or honestly anything across the board these days. This is a dawn of a new age and it’s time to start thinking smarter not harder.You can’t continue on doing the same things if you aren’t getting anywhere.

It’s a new way and era and if you think Instagram may be the answer.. it isn’t. They are also making changes. What you need to focus on is in person meetings and encounters, trade shows, word of mouth (which is HUGE,this is where a majority of my business comes from) or via different marketing means.. like Sue Bryce’s voucher program.

One thing with me is consistency. Consistency is key. RARELY and I say this wholeheartedly.. Rarely do I have a bad session and not like the results. This is how picky I have become though.. in regards to shooting times, locations, outfits.. It’s something you learn and keep learning to bust out the best results for your clients.

It’s been a CRAZY year.. with mini sessions and full sessions, we’ve done about 550 sessions. Which is a tremendous volume especially for an outdoor photographer and whose months are March to November as their busy season.

As it starts to get slower, these next few months I am going to happily share more of this gorgeous sessions. It’s been a pure joy to be the best of South Jersey. Okay, maybe not the BEST, however we feel our work is different and doesn’t look like every photographer out there in the area. It seems everyone is doing the same things. Why be mundane when you can have something different and marvelous. We are all about elegance, light and true emotive captures. We’ve worked hard to separate ourselves and hope this shows in our work. We love every family that comes our way and have worked with the same families… often times 5/6 times per year.

 If you would like the last spot in this winter wonderland unicorn session or more information, you can find this here! Hope to see you here!

Unicorn Session Information

Remember we travel the entire Delaware Valley region.. all of South Jersey (Moorestown, Cherry Hill, Pitman, Jersey Shore, Cape May, Vineland, Moorestown, Marlton, Medford... Philadelphia suburbs mainline Delaware, Montgomery, Chester, and up to Bucks county (north) and as far west as Lancaster, Northern Delaware, Parts of Central NJ (for example Princeton area), and northern Maryland. Let us create something magical for you!  We're in for a huge 2018!

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee  

NJ Communion Photography Sessions- A South Jersey Tradition

First Holy Communion Portraits

At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we understand the significance of capturing precious moments like First Holy Communion portraits. Our team of skilled photographers specializes in creating timeless images that beautifully commemorate this important milestone in your child's spiritual journey.

With a neutral and professional approach, we aim to create photographs that reflect the solemnity and joy of this occasion. Our photographers pay attention to every detail, from the attire and accessories to the tender expressions on your child's face as they partake in this sacred event.

We strive to provide a comfortable and relaxed environment during the photoshoot, ensuring that your child feels at ease and can showcase their inner radiance. Our goal is to deliver portraits that you and your family will cherish for years to come, serving as a heartfelt reminder of this momentous day.

Contact us at Shooting Star Photography LLC to schedule your First Holy Communion portrait session and let us help you capture this important milestone with professionalism and artistry.

It is hard to believe that this little lady was not having it as part of this session. She smiled and came through and had a fun time! I love capturing first holy communion portraits. Hands down it’s a great rite of passage and something to truly celebrate! This photo session we actually did at the Shoemaker School in Woodstown NJ. They have a cute little garden courtyard and then we headed over to the Woodstown High School as they have a meadow area that looks gorgeous at sunset!

Holding up her beautiful rosary and a gorgeous smile!

First Holy Communions Are Important!

Capturing first holy communion sessions in New Jersey is of utmost importance for both families and photographers alike. The first holy communion holds a special place in a young child's life, symbolizing their initiation into the Catholic faith. It is a significant milestone, marking their commitment to their religious beliefs. These sessions provide a unique opportunity for families to preserve this momentous occasion and create lasting memories.

Photographers play a crucial role in capturing the joy, innocence, and spiritual significance of the event, ensuring that these precious moments are frozen in time. In New Jersey, with its rich religious heritage and cultural diversity, the tradition of first holy communion is deeply cherished. The photographs taken during these sessions hold immense sentimental value, enabling families to revisit and relive this extraordinary day for generations to come.

It's that time of year when you start to think ahead! I have had the honor of doing a few communion sessions since I started this journey! I love showcasing this pivotal and important time in a young lady's or young man's life! It's a passage of life for most families that has been around for generations. Last spring, I had the opportunity to photograph this little girl. It was a cold day! However, we managed. Believe it or not, we did this in the garden courtyard of the Mary Shoemaker School in Woodstown, NJ. 

And the session continues on...

In prayer for her first holy communion session.

Picking tulips and taking her First Holy Communion Portraits.

Love getting close-ups of the littles!

Picking tulips during her beautiful spring holy communion session.

There's a lovely courtyard garden that gets pretty kept up on the grounds with beautiful blooming tulips and daffodils come spring. As you can see, the light was magnificent this day. It's what I am all about! YUMMY DELICIOUS LIGHT.  

Having Fun AND Getting Professional Communion Portraits is what is all about.

This little lady was freezing cold, but she persevered! Woodstown has some great location options. Everything from rustic to cute little gardens, to the beautiful downtown area. I truly love where I live and I have lived all over South Jersey (even in PA). I find the folks my way to be extremely kind! It's the best place I have ever lived!  After our little garden patch photos, we then headed down to the Woodstown High School area as there is a nice rustic field with gorgeous light that resides near the stream.

I need to shoot here more as it is even within walking distance of my own house! I love utilizing places that are near and dear to me.  For myself, I believe full sessions allow me to get to know my subjects. I believe they tend to go more smoothly as there is time to warm up. Believing in magical things are what I want my clients to see in the end product. My photographs are magical. I like to see the world this way.  

At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we understand the importance and the significance of communion portraits. We believe that this special milestone deserves to be captured in exceptional photographs that will be treasured for a lifetime. When booking your communion portraits with us, you can expect the highest level of professionalism, creativity, and attention to detail. Our expert photographers will work closely with you to create a personalized and unique experience, ensuring that your child's personality and joy shine through every image. With our state-of-the-art equipment and stunning studio, we guarantee breathtaking portraits that perfectly capture the essence of this beautiful moment. At Shooting Star Photography LLC, we are committed to delivering exceptional service and unforgettable memories.

Book your communion portraits with us today and let us capture the radiance and joy that fills your child's heart.

Happy Shooting, my friends!

Dee

Shooting Star Photography

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