Three things I’m loving in the studio this spring!

Every year, my Saratoga Springs photography studio undergoes a huge cleaning and prep for the next season of babies! In addition to this major clean out, I find myself going through all of my wraps, headbands, and outfits for my client closet. It’s a chance to refresh what’s available to each of my families. Not only does it ensure beautiful options for each of them, but it allows me to really evaluate why everything is in my studio. This spring, I can already tell I’m reaching for and using certain props and options for my newborn sessions. Here’s three things I’m loving in the studio this spring: 

Dainty pearl headbands and tiebacks! 

I just added a few new headbands and tiebacks to our ever-growing collection of baby headbands, and every single family has chosen to use at least 1 or 2 of the pearl options in their sessions! I think they’re simply perfect. Timeless and a sweet little accent for your darling baby! 

All of the spring flowers! 

I look forward to tulip season every year, and they are always one of my favorite flowers to incorporate into newborn portraits. Plus, I loved putting some fluffy flowers on our rattan stroller for a new look, too! I will never say no to more flowers in newborn setups! They’re just perfect to showcase the season - without taking away from your baby! 

Soft colors!

If you know me, you know that I can’t get enough of whites, creams, beige, and blush pink when it comes to outfits or setups for babies, milestones, and cake smashes. There was a time when my entire wardrobe consisted of these three colors, and I jokingly said to my best friend that my closet looked like Neapolitan ice cream. Since then I’ve done my color analysis with Amy Latta at House of Color Saratoga Springs (she’s participating in our upcoming client appreciation event in April!) and my closet is less Neapolitan and more colorful with my best Summer colors. But for studio portraits, especially baby girl newborns? Give me alllllll the Neapolitan ice cream colors, please! 

If you can’t tell, I definitely love spring time here at the studio. It’s a beautiful time for portraits - and I can’t get enough of the soft colors and overflowing florals. What’s your favorite prop or outfit for the spring?


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Newborn portrait sessions with handmade pearl headbands

Welcome to the world Baby Vivienne! I’m so happy that I had a chance to bring this beautiful family back to my Saratoga Springs studio. 5 years ago, I captured  big sister Madeleine’s newborn portraits. Now she’s a big sister! It was very special to see how much she’s grown and to watch her bubbly personality shine through as she showed off her new baby sister.

This newborn session feels very springlike to me! We captured a few portraits inspired by Madeleine’s portraits a few years back - including the overhead circle bowl shot. It was special to recreate beautiful memories for this family. I’ve also added a bunch of new headbands including some with pearl details to the studio, which Vivienne’s mother chose for her daughter’s session. I love them so much and I’m so thrilled to see them being used. 

Many of my newborn clients fall in love with the soft colors and my natural style of newborn posing. I always choose to use minimal props to keep the focus on the baby. Pure and sweet, minimal is my focus - so I can capture the connection between family members. These sibling portraits of the girls are some of my all-time favorites, and the colors in the family’s outfits were perfect for the studio. Everything about Vivienne’s session just fit perfectly with my style and I’m so thrilled to be sharing it with you today! 


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Cozy studio newborn portrait session for Winter Lily | Saratoga Springs newborn photographer

I recently had the honor of welcoming Winter Lily to my Saratoga Springs studio to capture her newborn portraits! Winter Lily was accompanied by her big brother, Phoenix, and her parents. Her big brother was SO proud and it was the absolute sweetest thing to watch throughout our session. Our portraits for Winter Lily really focused on the interactions between these two babies and the family together. Winter Lily’s solo portraits featured beautiful pastel colors - and I even got to play with some fun winter overlays and snowflakes! 

While I was photographing Amanda’s family, I knew I was going to fall in love with the final portraits. And, I definitely did! This family’s outfits were perfect in the studio.

When you’re planning what to wear for your own studio newborn portraits, consider light neutrals. Light color shirts reflect light back onto the baby’s face when you hold them up against your chest, it keeps the focus on the family & expressions & love. I’m a huge fan of creating imagery that will be classic, timeless, and simple. Light neutrals help make that possible! 

I’m so happy for this family of four and I’m thrilled that they asked me to document this incredibly special time in their family’s lives! Welcome to the world, Winter Lily! 


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Lavender and Blush Pink Newborn Portrait Session in Saratoga Springs

Welcome to the world, Edelyn! This sweet baby girl visited my Saratoga Springs studio for her first portraits (ever!) and I had the best time catching up with her moms and big brother, Everett. Back in 2021, I had the honor of photographing Everrett’s newborn portraits so it was even more exciting to capture his baby sister’s!

For Edelyn’s studio newborn portraits, her moms really wanted to use a hint of lavender and blush pink to bring some color into her setups. I think that the palette of soft, neutral tones with these pops of color came together beautifully for this sweet baby girl. During the session, we captured beautiful portraits of just Edelyn, as well as many of her moms and big brother, too. Have I said how special it was to watch this family welcome their newest member?! 

We even created a few portraits for Edelyn inspired by her big brother’s portraits, and their moms are going to hang them side by side in their home! I absolutely LOVE that idea and am always open to matching color palettes and poses whenever possible between your sessions with me. Similar posing is a really fun way to connect your special moments. Congratulations again to this sweet family - I’m so happy I got to see you again in my studio!


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Best of 2023 newborn sessions in Saratoga Springs

Newborn sessions are special for me. I’m always so honored to be invited into such a beautiful time in my clients' lives to celebrate the arrival of their new baby. Whether their sessions are at home or in my studio, every one of them is as unique as the family I’m capturing. 

For the 2023 year, I was extra lucky with the families who visited me. So many of my newborn clients this year were coming back to see me with their second or third baby, and I’ve been lucky enough to document all of their children’s milestones. It felt beyond special to be in the studio with families I adore and to be capturing yet another milestone for their family. 

toddler pushes baby sister in stroller during newborn session in Saratoga Springs NY with Nicole Starr Photography

In addition to our studio sessions, I absolutely adore our lifestyle sessions. Lifestyle newborn sessions are perfect for a relaxed peek into your lives at home. You get to spend your session cuddled up in the living room or all cozy on the bed together, or getting to know your new baby in the nursery that you so lovingly put together before their arrival. It’s a really unique moment and there’s nothing more beautiful than documenting a family at home. 

baby lays in crib under rainbow mural in nursery during lifestyle newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
newborn baby boy sleeps on changing table in front of mountain on nursery wall during lifestyle newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
big siblings hug newborn sister in front of white crib in nursery with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
siblings hold baby sister on couch during lifestyle newborn session in Saratoga Springs NY with Nicole Starr Photography
toddler boy hugs newborn sibling in corner of wooden crib in nursery with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
parents snuggle with son in custom animal inspired nursery during lifestyle newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
family of five snuggles with baby girl on bed during lifestyle newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
parents hug each other looking at newborn son in living room of home in New York during lifestyle newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
siblings hug baby sister in white crib on pink sheets during lifestyle newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

If a more traditional look is your style, newborn studio sessions are always a great time! They’re wonderfully stress-free - which is one of the best perks, in my opinion. So many families this year told me how much they enjoyed sitting in the studio and how relaxed it made them feel. My favorite memorable compliment was from a dad (who happens to live in my neighborhood!) that had been in the studio for about an hour or so, and between the flowing conversation, the white noise, the cozy temperature, and his sleep exhaustion from his first few weeks with a newborn, he said “I love your studio! It feels like we’re in Las Vegas and I completely lose track of time in here! I mean, what day is it?!?! Where are we?!?!” It was hilarious but also really spoke to me about the atmosphere we create for my families. 

siblings snuggle with newborn sister on couch during newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs NY studio with Nicole Starr Photography
siblings lay on fluffy rug with newborn sister between them during newborn portraits in studio with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom hugs newborn daughter to her while toddler son playfully plays with her headband as dad holds him in studio with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
parents snuggle with toddler and newborn sitting together in studio with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mother in white lace dress hugs newborn baby to chest during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
newborn baby boy lays on white pillow in all white onesie during newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mother in ivory dress holds newborn in blanket to chest during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl in white blanket lays snuggled up on bed with chunky pink blanket under her during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy sleeps wrapped in tight white blanket on knit blanket during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy lays wrapped in blue blanket on white chunky blanket on white bed during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby sleeps on wooden bed hugging bunny lovely in white blanket during newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dads hug newborn son in studio during newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl snuggles in white knit blanket with pearl headband during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby lays wrapped in white blanket during during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby lays in tan wrap with bear ears in Moses basket during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby lays curled up on grey knit blanket during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby lays on white blanket in white onesie during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby sleeps in ivory wrap on knit blankets during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby sleeps on wooden bed with ivory wrap and pastel pink blanket during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby sleeps on blanket with foxes and horses during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

I can’t wait to watch these little babies grow and invite them back into the studio in 2024 for their birthday sessions! Thank you to every family who trusted me to capture these special moments as they welcomed their littlest loves to the world. 


Best of 2023 newborn sessions with lifestyle and studio newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

Celebrating baby sister’s arrival with family portraits - saratoga springs newborn photographer

Welcome to the world, Ava Margaret! This sweet baby girl’s arrival was much-anticipated! Her mama went two weeks past her due date, and everyone was so excited when Ava finally arrived. I couldn't wait to meet her at their studio newborn portraits in my Saratoga Springs studio. This family is absolutely the sweetest and I loved every moment working with them. 

Ava was welcomed to the world by her big siblings, Adam and Ellie. I loved watching her big brother and sister with her! They were so gentle and nurturing, and their interactions were adorable. Plus they loved being involved in the session and even wanted to pose for their own individual portraits, too! I call that a definite win in my book - both as a photographer and mom of two littles of my own. 

For Ava’s portraits, we chose a beautiful neutral palette featuring ivory, tan, and some peach accents for her solo portraits at the end of the session. Most of our session was spent capturing this sweet girl with her parents and big siblings, but I loved being able to slowly transition down to her portraits. We focused on simple setups, with some cozy knit blankets and some of my favorite props to show off Ava’s adorable little features. 

Congratulations to this beautiful family! I’m so happy that your newest member has arrived and is so loved!!  

two big siblings hold baby sister on tan couch during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
two big siblings hold baby sister on tan couch during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
big brother in white shirt and tan shorts holds baby sister in white wrap with headband on tan couch during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
big sister holds baby sister in white wrap with headband on tan couch during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
big sister and brother hold baby sister in white wrap with headband laying on furry rug during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
parents sit holding newborn baby girl with two children during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom in tan sweater holds baby girl in white wrap up to her cheek during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
parents sit holding newborn baby girl with two children during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom in tan sweater holds baby girl in white wrap with flower headband smiling at her during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom holds baby girl in white wrap up with older siblings standing by her during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad holds baby girl in white wrap up with older siblings standing by her during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad smiles down at baby girl in white wrap up during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
boy in white button up shirt sits on wooden bench during Saratoga Springs family session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
girl in linen dress sits on wooden bench during Saratoga Springs family session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad in grey shirt hugs baby girl in white wrap to his chest during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
parents hug baby girl in white wrap to their chests during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
toddler girl in linen dress pushes baby sister in wooden stroller during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl in tan wrap lays curled up on white knit blanket during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays in white wraps on wooden bed during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays in white wraps on wooden bed during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays in tan wrap on peach blanket during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

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Celebrating baby sister's arrival with family portraits with Saratoga Springs newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

Newborn portraits for Julian’s Baby Sister

Welcome to the world, Baby Lucy! I photographed Lindsay’s maternity portraits earlier this year and now her little girl has arrived! She and the family came to my Saratoga Springs studio for newborn portraits and I was so happy to get to meet Lucy! She’s absolutely precious. 

During Lucy’s newborn session, I had some flashbacks to capturing her big brother’s newborn portraits 2 years ago. It was fun to have them all back in the studio for new portraits. During his mom’s maternity session, Julian was a bit hesitant about being on camera. We managed to get some smiles. But, the studio is stocked with lots of toys and snacks (turns out he loves Goldfish!), so we had a good time for his sister’s newborn session. He was amazing - and even came to check on his baby sister while she was swaddled up for her portraits. It was adorable! 

I absolutely love the color palette that Lindsay chose for Lucy’s portraits. We focused on beautiful neutrals and introduced some soft pinks to round out the color palette. Her mom wore a beautiful pink gown from the studio and I loved how the texture photographed. Lucy wore some sweet floral headbands, too. She looked so perfect throughout the whole session!! 

Thank you to this sweet family for allowing me to capture another newborn session. I’m so happy to meet Lucy and thrilled we got to work together to document your growing family again! 

mom in mauve gown with lace detailing at top holds baby girl in white wrap with pink and white flower headband during studio newborn session in Saratoga Springs with NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom in mauve gown with lace detailing at top holds baby girl in white wrap with pink and white flower headband during studio newborn session in Saratoga Springs with NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom in mauve gown with lace detailing at top holds baby girl in white wrap while toddler leans to kiss baby sister while dad holds him during studio newborn session in Saratoga Springs with NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom in mauve gown with lace detailing at top holds baby girl in white wrap while toddler leans to kiss baby sister while dad holds him during studio newborn session in Saratoga Springs with NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom in mauve gown with lace detailing at top holds baby girl in white wrap while dad holds toddler in studio newborn session in Saratoga Springs with NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad in white shirt holds newborn daughter in white wrap with pink and white flower headband photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad in white shirt holds newborn daughter in white wrap while mom looks over his shoulder photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad in white shirt holds newborn daughter in white wrap while mom and toddler big brother sit together on couch photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
toddler big brother leans over baby sister in wooden crate sleeping during newborn portraits photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad kisses newborn baby girl in white wrap with pink flower headband during newborn portraits photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mother in mauve gown with lace detailing holds baby girl in white wrap with pink flower headband during newborn portraits photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby in ivory wrap with ivory headband sleeps on chunky knit blanket in white wicker bed during newborn portraits photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
big brother leans over to talk to baby sister sleeping in wooden bowl with chunky knit blanket during newborn portraits photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

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Classic studio newborn portraits for baby girl with cream and pink color palette photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography.

Newborn Portraits with Blush Pink for Second Daughter

There’s nothing quite as special as watching one of my families grow. I photographed this sweet family and their first baby, Giuliana, in the studio when she was born. Now, Giuliana is a big sister to Gabriella. She and her family came back to my Saratoga Springs studio to capture newborn portraits for their second baby girl. It was so wonderful to see everyone again and celebrate their newest member! 

Throughout the session, we created a few nods back to Giuliana’s newborn portraits, include the portrait with her pink blanket and mom’s bracelet. It was really fun to create these images knowing that there was another set of them at home for Giuliana! Gabby was such a sweetheart for me throughout her whole session, too. She was happy to curl up and let her family snuggle her. 

Giuliana was AMAZING during her sister’s newborn session. She wanted to be involved in everything, and she kept coming close to me to “take pictures” with her wooden camera, check on her baby, and tuck her in with the blankets. Truly the sweetest! I am just so blessed that this is my job - and capturing those sweet moments is work for me. 

I can’t wait to see Gabby back in the studio in a few months for her milestone session! She’s going to be so big!! 

big sister in pink dress pushes baby in wooden stroller during studio newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs NY with Nicole Starr Photography
big sister in pink dress sits by sister wrapped in cream blanket with pink floral headband during studio newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs NY with Nicole Starr Photography
big sister in pink dress sits by sister wrapped in cream blanket with pink floral headband during studio newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs NY with Nicole Starr Photography
husband hugs wife in peach gown holding newborn baby girl during studio newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs NY
husband holding toddler daughter in pink dress hugs wife in peach gown holding newborn baby girl during studio newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs NY
mom holds  toddler daughter and newborn baby girl during studio newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs NY with Nicole Starr Photography
mom holds  toddler daughter and newborn baby girl during studio newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs NY with Nicole Starr Photography
mother in pink gown holds newborn baby girl against cheek in Saratoga Springs NY studio
dad in white button down shirt holds new daughter in cream wrap with pink headband during studio newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs NY
dad in white button down shirt holds new daughter in cream wrap with pink headband during studio newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs NY
toddler girl in pink gown holds sister in cream wrap on sofa during studio newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs NY
toddler girl in pink gown sits on dad’s lap while mom holds baby sister in cream wrap on sofa during studio newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs NY
dad in white button up shirt olds two daughters during studio newborn session in Saratoga Springs NY
baby girl lays in white wrap with lavender flower headband during Saratoga Springs NY studio newborn portraits with Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays in white wrap with lavender flower headband during Saratoga Springs NY studio newborn portraits with Nicole Starr Photographybaby girl lays in white wrap with lavender flower headband during Saratoga Springs NY studio newborn portraits
baby girl yawns in white blanket wrap next to onesie that says “Handpicked for earth by my grandpa in heaven” during Saratoga Springs NY studio newborn portraits with Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl in white blanket clasps hands together wearing white bow headband during Saratoga Springs newborn session in studio
baby girl lays in white wrap on namesake pink blanket during newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays in peach wrap on chunky white blanket on wooden bed with peonies around it photographed by Saratoga Springs NSY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
big sister sits with new baby sister in Moses basket in custom monogramed outfits photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

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Newborn portraits with blush pink accents for second daughter photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

Newborn Portraits with the Cutest Toddler Big Brother

I loved working with this super sweet family to welcome their little girl to the world! We planned a studio newborn session to capture her first portraits and their first portrait as a family of four. It was so special - and absolutely beautiful. Mom wanted to include lots of soft florals and greenery. Paired with beautiful neutrals, everything came together in such a lovely way! I always love these soft pastel colors for little girls.

‌When we were discussing what to wear, Mom decided to borrow a gown from the studio’s Mama Wardrobe. This is by far one of our most popular dresses and is super flattering on all mamas. The detail on the neckline and sleeves photographs so beautifully! I absolutely love and get so excited when mamas ask to use this dress!

‌Throughout the whole session, big brother was curious about his little sister. He and I had a great time laughing and finding little games (and tricks) to keep him involved in the session with her. I think the images of them together are just so beautiful. He’s going to be a great big brother as he continues to grow up!

After their session, the family returned to the studio to discuss heirloom products. They created a gorgeous album with their favorite portraits. I’m so happy with it and I hope they’ll cherish it forever! ‌

mom in white gown sits holding newborn daughter on soft while hugging toddler son during newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs NY studio with Nicole Starr Photography
dad in blue button up shirt holds newborn daughter on sofa while hugging toddler son during newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs NY studio with Nicole Starr Photography
dad in blue button up shirt holds newborn daughter alongside wife and toddler son during newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs NY studio with Nicole Starr Photography
new parents look down at daughter in white wrap during newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs NY studio with Nicole Starr Photography
dad in blue button up shirt holds daughter in white wrap in front his chest during newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs NY studio with Nicole Starr Photography
mother in white dress with lace details holds newborn daughter in arm in white wrap with floral headband during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer
baby girl in white wrap with floral headband lays on white blanket in Moses basket during newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer
baby girl in white wrap with floral headband lays on white blanket in Moses basket while toddler brother leans in to touch her blanket during newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer
baby girl in white wrap with floral headband lays on white blanket in Moses basket while toddler brother looks at her during newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer
baby girl in lays in white knit blanket with pink rose floral crown during newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer
baby girl in lays in white knit blanket with pink rose floral crown on bed during newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer
baby girl in lays in white knit blanket with pink rose floral crown on bed during newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer
baby girl in lays in white knit blanket in wicker basket on chunky ivory blanket photographed by Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer
baby girl in lays in white knit blanket on furry blanket while big brother looks over her photographed by Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer

Newborn portraits for baby girl with the cutest toddler big brother in Saratoga Springs NY studio photographed by NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

Mauve & neutral newborn portraits for Seraphina Marie

I’m so happy I was able to welcome Seraphina Marie to my studio for her newborn session! Her parents and I planned a gorgeous and simple session to welcome their baby girl to the world. During Katy’s maternity portraits, she wore a beautiful mauve gown - so we used that as the inspiration for Seraphina’s setups. I love when we can tie sessions together like that for families!

Seraphina was absolutely perfect during her newborn portraits. She was snuggly and loved being with her parents. Capturing new parents holding their baby is always so special to me. Those early days go by so quickly and I want to be sure you remember how tiny your little one was. Katy actually wore the same gown for these portraits that she wore in the maternity photos, too. After we captured portraits of her and her parents, it was time to wrap her and place her on the sweet setups we created. I focused on mauve and cream when selecting pieces for her setups and I love how they look together in the final images!! 

When they came back to the studio for their reveal session, this beautiful family decided on our matted prints. They are going to look so beautiful on the walls of their home! I can’t wait to see how they look when they arrive. They’re some of my favorite products to create with portraits from sessions in the studio. 

mom in mauve gown holds newborn baby girl in white wrap with pink headband while husband holds her arm during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom in mauve gown holds husband’s arm as he holds new baby girl during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays in cream blanket with floral headband during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps in wicker basket on mauve blanket during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps in wicker basket on mauve blanket during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps in wicker basket on mauve blanket during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps in curled up in cream blanket during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps in pink knit sweater with floral headband on white blanket during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

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studio newborn session with mauve and neutral details for baby girl with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

Welcome, Ivy Joy: Newborn Portraits at Four Weeks Old

Welcome to the world, Ivy Joy! It’s so special getting to meet babies after I’ve photographed their mom’s maternity portraits, like Ivy Joy. I photographed her mama’s maternity session this summer while they were anxiously waiting for her arrival. I loved getting to know Heather and Lee better during their maternity session, and I love that we pulled elements of the colors Heather wore into Ivy Joy’s newborn portraits, too. I’m all about creating cohesive images that will pair well together in your albums or on your walls!

For Ivy Joy’s session, she came to my Saratoga Springs studio. She was 4 weeks old, but so sweet and mellow. While she was awake, she had the best eye contact - and that’s one of my favorite things about older newborns. They’re always so sweet!! Ivy Joy was easy to pose and I loved capturing some of her new expressions. Photographing older newborns can come with it’s challenges, but I also love the ways you can capture their personality because they’re a bit bigger now.

Heather and Lee requested the sage green and mustard yellow in her setups - which was a great way to tie into Heather’s maternity portraits. I’m also obsessed with the dark navy setup with the stars. Ivy Joy looked so sweet on it! Come take a look at some of my favorite moments from their beautiful studio session.

new parents pose with daughter during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad holds daughter by window during studio newborn portraits smiling at her photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
new parents smile down at baby girl during newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs studio with Nicole Starr Photography
mom in white linen gown holds baby girl in white wrap during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
new parents look down at daughter during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs newborn photographer
mom holds daughter in white wrap during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs newborn photographer
dad snuggles with newborn daughter in Saratoga Springs photo studio with Nicole Starr Photography
new parents snuggle with daughter on sofa during Saratoga Springs newborn portraits in studio with Nicole Starr Photography
new parents snuggle with daughter on sofa during Saratoga Springs newborn portraits in studio with Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps in white wrap on sage green blanket with flower headband photographed by NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
older newborn lays in white wrap on mustard knit blanket photographed by NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl smiles in white wrap with white floral headband on blue chunky knit blanket with blue and gold star backdrop photographed by NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps in pink knit blanket during studio newborn portraits with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer
baby girl sleeps on lace and pale pink blanket during newborn photos in studio with Nicole Starr Photography
baby sleeps in white lace wrap with succulent inspired headband on sage blanket photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby lays on backdrop with ivy photographed by Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer

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newborn portraits with sage and mustard setups for baby girl photographed by studio newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

Baby Girl Newborn Portraits with Pops of Color

I had the best time welcoming Baby Katelynn Carol to the studio for her newborn portraits! She brought along her parents and big brother, Cameron, to help welcome her to the world. Katelynn Carol was already 2 weeks old when she came to the studio - which is totally fine! I love photographing older newborns. There’s something special about their sweet little hands and feet, even as they start to fill up and curl up a little bit less.

Her big brother did such an amazing job in the studio and was so happy to be in front of the camera! He also loved playing with my toy wooden camera and pretending to take pictures of his family with it, and he had the biggest smile any time I turned my camera towards him to take his picture. I loved photographing him with Katelynn Carol, especially with one of my favorite props: the Moses basket!

We picked some beautiful pastel setups for this sweet girl to end the session. She looked so sweet in the different setups and some of my favorite headbands! I’m so thankful this wonderful family chose me to capture Katelynn Carol’s first days!

new parents hold baby girl looking down at her during studio newborn session in Saratoga Springs NY with Nicole Starr Photography
parents stand with newborn baby girl and big brother in Saratoga Springs NY studio photographed by Nicole Starr Photography
mom snuggles with newborn baby girl in Saratoga Springs NY studio photographed by New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad kisses newborn baby girl against white wall in Saratoga Springs studio photographed by NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad sits on wooden stool with new baby girl and toddler photographed by New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
parents sit with newborn baby girl and toddler brother sitting on studio in Saratoga Springs photographed by NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps with floral headband photographed by NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
brother looks at baby girl laying in Moses basket photographed by NY studio newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
big brother holds newborn sister laying on tan rug photographed by Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer
big brother holds newborn sister laying on tan rug photographed by Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer
toddler stands in white button up shirt during studio portraits with Nicole Starr Photography
mom sits on sofa with newborn baby girl in felted pink flower headband with toddler son next to her photographed by Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer
baby girl lays curled up in white blanket photographed by NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays in mint green blanket in wooden bowl photographed by NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays in mint green blanket in with yellow headband photographed by NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays wrapped up in tan blanket in wicker crib photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays wrapped up in tan blanket in wicker crib with fall inspired floral headband photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
newborn baby girl lays in white onesie on purple chunky blanket during studio newborn portraits photographed by NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays in peach onesie on peach chunky blanket photographed by NY Newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays wrapped in floral blanket photographed by New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

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newborn session in Saratoga Springs studio with Nicole Starr Photography for baby girl with pastel setups

Baby Starr | Adelaide's Newborn Portraits

Adelaide Olivia

June 17, 2022

We welcomed our daughter in the middle of June, and somehow an entire month has already gone by! I don't remember time going this quickly when our son was born, but the weeks have all blended into one another and time is disappearing faster than we can keep track of it. I swear I barely blink and another week has passed in a blur of feedings, naps, and doctors appointments!

Sweet little Adelaide Olivia was born on June 17, 2022. She is our rainbow baby, and we waited a very long time for this beautiful baby to join our family. She's finally her, and we are over the moon.

Adelaide is perfect in every way, and we are so in love already. Grayson is the proudest big brother, and he lights up every time he's in the room with her and wants to be involved in everything that has to do with his sister. His grandma keeps saying that "he was born to be a big brother," and it's true that he is really doing an amazing job in his new role already. We love watching him in this transition, and it's so sweet to see how he interacts with his baby sister.

baby girl sleeps in white wrap on pink knit blanket during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps in white wrap with hands curled into her body  on pink knit blanket during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography

She spent the first couple of weeks sound asleep, and we couldn't wake her up for anything! She was literally the sleepiest baby I had ever encountered in my 10 years of posing newborns. But that meant that I got to enjoy multiple mini portrait sessions in the studio to capture a few setups each day. This was such a stark contrast to Grayson's newborn portraits, where he wouldn't settle into a deep sleep because he knew mama was close by, and every click of the shutter startled him wide awake. Baby girl knew what to do, and she snoozed and posed and smiled! I had so much fun capturing these first portraits of her, and now I'm excited to choose which ones to print and frame in our home, and many more to put into an album for our growing album collection!

baby girl lays on white blanket with simple white bow headband during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps with white bow in white lace wrap during newborn session in studio with Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl smiles as she sleeps with white bow in white lace wrap during newborn session in studio with Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps with white bow in white lace wrap during newborn session in studio with Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps in purple wrap on chunky knit blanket during pastel inspired newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography in Saratoga Springs studio
baby girl sleeps in purple wrap on chunky knit blanket during pastel inspired newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography in Saratoga Springs studio
baby girl sleeps curled up in mint green blanket during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps curled up in mint green blanket during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

For Adelaide's session I enjoyed lots of neutrals, and you all know I'm a fan of classic baby portraits on white backdrops and layers. I pulled out all of my favorite headbands and floral crowns from Polka Dot Poppy, and I added a few new ones with baby's breath as a nod to the baby's breath I wore in my hair at our wedding, and that my mother wore in her hair at her wedding in the 80s!

baby girl sleeps in white wrap with white floral headband  on peach blanket during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps in white wrap on peach blanket during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays curled up in white wrap with baby’s breath headband during Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays curled up in white wrap with baby’s breath headband during Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps laying on hands  in white wrap with baby’s breath headband during Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

And of course, I couldn't resist using the same tiny camera prop that I used 4 years ago in Grayson's newborn portraits. Every photographer has got to capture her baby's portrait holding a newborn sized camera, right?!

baby girl sleeps holding camera during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps holding camera during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays in white ruffled dress during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays in white ruffled dress with pink floral headband during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays in white ruffled dress with pink floral headband during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl holds leg in white ruffle onesie during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

I have so much more inspiration for Adelaide's portraits this year, and I'm excited to share more with you as she grows!

Thanks for celebrating our sweet girl's arrival with us!

newborn girl sleeps curled up in white wrap with floral headband during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
newborn girl sleeps in pink onesie on wooden bed during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

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Classic studio newborn portraits with neutral color scheme for photographer's daughter photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

Welcoming Jordan Elliot - Newborn portraits for this family's third baby boy

Welcome to the world, Jordan Elliot! I’m so happy to have welcomed the Popper family back to my studio for their third baby boy’s newborn portraits. This sweet family has three boys: Jonas, Jacob, and Jordan - all 22 months apart and I’ve had the honor of capturing all of their newborn portraits. It’s truly an honor to be invited back into their life to document their milestones and new additions as they grow.

When we began to plan Jordan’s newborn portraits, Natalia and I knew that we wanted to create portraits that would coordinate with his older brother’s newborn portraits, too. That would ensure that all three boys’ portraits could easily be displayed together and enjoyed cohesively. Because of that, we stuck with blues and greys to match the other two boys!

It was so fun too see everyone in the studio together while we photographed Jordan. Jacob and Jonas were thrilled to introduce their new brother to me and showing him off! Capturing their interactions might have been one of my favorite parts of this sweet session. Enjoy a look into Jordan’s newborn portraits today!

parents with three baby boys sit on sofa in studio photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad kisses newborn son’s nose during studio newborn session with NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
parents hold baby boy in arms during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
parents hold baby boy in arms during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
parents hold baby boy and two big brothers in arms during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom holds newborn baby in white wrap on shoulder during studio newborn photos with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom holds newborn baby in white wrap on shoulder during studio newborn photos with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy sleeps in wicker Moses basket during newborn portraits in studio with Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer
big brothers look at new baby brother in wicker Moses basket during newborn portraits in studio with Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer
big brother look at new baby brother in wicker Moses basket during newborn portraits in studio with Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer
baby sleeps on blue blankets and blue chunky wrap during newborn photos in studio with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby sleeps on blue blankets and blue chunky wrap during newborn photos in studio with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy sleeps in white wrap on chunky grey knit blanket during studio newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs with Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy sleeps in white wrap on chunky grey knit blanket during studio newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs with Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy sleeps on his belly in white wrap on chunky grey knit blanket during studio newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs with Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy lays on wooden bed in blue sleeper with eyes open photographed by Saratoga Springs with Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy lays on wooden bed in blue sleeper with eyes open photographed by Saratoga Springs with Nicole Starr Photography

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classic studio newborn portraits for family’s third baby boy with wicker Moses basket photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

Springtime newborn portraits with florals and hints of purple

Welcome to the world, Avery Marie! Everything was in bloom at the studio for Avery Marie’s springtime newborn portraits. Since her mom’s favorite color is purple, we decided to lean into the purples and spring season for her setups. I have a funny feeling it will be a favorite color of Avery for years to come.

Purple looked amazing on both Avery and her mom. Her mother chose to wear a lavender gown from our Mama’s Wardrobe, and I’m so glad she did! It was the perfect color on her with her hair and complexion, and it looks amazing against the baby's complexion, too!

Avery’s parents brought a few props for their session that are special to them, including a fun little ice cream movie. They love ice cream, so it was the perfect prop to celebrate that connection they’ll share with Avery one day. Her mom also spent years as a ballet dancer, so we made sure to incorporate a tutu for one of the photos. It was purple, of course!

Avery, you are SO loved and I can’t wait to see you grow this year. You are so lucky to have your incredible parents with you along the way.

baby girl sleeps in white wrap with purple floral headband photographed by NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps wrapped in white blanket on setup with lilacs and purple accents photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad kisses daughter with purple floral headband during studio newborn portraits photographed by NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
new parents pose with daughter during studio newborn portraits with NY newborn Photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom in purple gown holds baby girl in purple floral headband photographed by NY newborn Photographer Nicole Starr Photography
new parents hold baby girl in purple floral headband photographed by NY newborn Photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays on purple knit blanket with purple floral blanket wrapped around her during newborn portraits with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer
baby girl lays on purple knit blanket with purple floral blanket wrapped around her during newborn portraits with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer
baby girl lays in ivory wrap on bed of tulips during newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl curls up with ice cream blanket during newborn portraits with Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps in pink wrap during newborn portraits with floral inspiration photographed by NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps in purple tutu during newborn portraits with Nicole Starr Photography
baby sleeps under white blanket during newborn portraits in studio with Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer

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Springtime newborn portraits with florals and hints of purple photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

Newborn Portraits with Teenage Siblings

Meet Baby Finnley and his big siblings Austin and Addie! I was so happy when Finn, Addie, and Austin’s parents reached out about scheduling a newborn session to capture their new arrival to the family. As they began to tell me about their family, I knew this was going to be a very special newborn session for all of us. Finn is lucky to be welcomed to the world by his incredible parents and his big twin siblings, who are just so in love with him. He’s one loved little boy, that’s for sure!

Posing Teenage Siblings with Newborn Babies

Photographing a newborn session with teenage siblings is unique, too. It was a lot of fun to work with Addie and Austin as we welcomed their brother to the world. These two are so sweet and it’s clear they love each other and their family very much!

While working with teenagers during a newborn session is much like working with an adult or a parent, there’s definitely a few differences. One thing I love is that we can do more of the poses I typically reserve for parents with a few adjustments. Not all big siblings are as comfortable holding or moving a baby as their parents are, so it’s easy to change things up so they’re comfortable. I always have my sessions follow the flow needed for the family - and tend to start with full family portraits so that the teens have a bit more time to warm up and be ready to hold the baby, though Austin and Addie didn’t seem to need that!

Once the teens are more comfortable and ready to hold their new sibling, we’ll get started with some of my favorite poses. I always check in with the kids to make sure they’re still comfortable holding the baby or moving them around. Sometimes, I’ll be more hands on if needed, but usually by just adjusting the poses to be seated, the teenagers often find much more confidence holding their new siblings! Having them seated just allows everyone to feel more confident and sure about holding the baby! The baby's safety is always the top priority in any newborn session, no matter who is holding them.

two teenagers hug new baby brother during newborn session at studio with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

With some patience and guidance, we’ll easily capture some incredible memories for you and your family - including your teenage children holding their new sibling! Thank you to this sweet family for trusting me with this special memory!!

teenage siblings hug on sofa in Saratoga Springs NY studio with Nicole Starr Photography
teenage brother holds newborn baby brother in crook of arm on sofa in studio with Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer
teenage girl holds new baby brother on sofa during newborn portraits in studio with NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
parents look down at baby boy during newborn portraits in studio photographed by NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
parents pose with two teenage children and new baby boy during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer
dad holds newborn son in crook of arm during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography
parents stand together looking down at newborn baby boy in studio photographed by New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom poses with new baby in white off-the-shoulder shirt in studio photographed by Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy curls up in basket in white wrap during newborn portraits in studio with Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer
baby curls up in white swaddle cuddled into chunky blue blanket during newborn portraits with Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer
baby boy lays on little wooden bed during newborn photos in studio photographed by NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy in tan knit outfit looks over shoulder during newborn portraits in studio with Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer

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How to successfully capture newborn portraits with a toddler sibling

One of my favorite parts about being a newborn photographer is seeing families come back with their second (or third, or fourth) babies to my studio. I adore watching the toddlers I’ve photographed since they were newborns become big siblings and welcome their new baby brothers or sisters to the world. It’s so special - being able to capture these milestones for families. Not just the new baby, but the transition into siblinghood for the older toddlers, too. But, capturing these toddlers comes with it’s own challenges, and just about every parent I talk to is worried about how their toddler will be with the new baby during our portraits. It’s such a common fear - and I totally get it! But it’s 100% possible to have a beautiful session - with your toddler and new baby. Look at how well Baby Dylan and his big brother Owen did!

family of four sits on couch in studio during newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

When I last saw Owen during their outdoor family portrait session in the fall, he was shy and quiet and only wanted to be held by his dad. This time around, he was excited to introduce me to his baby brother Dylan, and he loved playing with all of the toys in my studio. He eagerly joined the family portraits, and he was all smiles for the camera when he saw the different rattles and bubbles that I brought out for his session. Now, I know that not all toddlers are like Dylan - but over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks about how to help your toddlers feel better in the studio during newborn portraits.

baby sleeps in white wrap in wooden box while big brother looks on during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer

Tips for engaging toddlers:

  • Go at their pace, don't rush them - or everyone’s going to have a rough time.

  • Make them feel special! It’s hard to understand why you aren’t the center of attention anymore. Start off by talking to the toddler and playing with them, and make it all about them instead of all about the baby.

  • Let them feel in control, give them easy choices like "Do you want to start with just you and baby, or mommy and daddy and baby? Do you think we should use the white or the blue blanket?"

  • Never underestimate the power of a bribe. I keep my studio snack cart stocked with toddler favorites, and it's amazing to see how hard these kids will keep it together for a promised goldfish or juice box when they are all done!

  • Give them breaks. Mix up the family poses so that the child isn't in every single one for long periods of time. Let them go play, have a quick bite, help you find a new toy, etc. while you mix family portraits with mom and baby, dad and baby, sibling portraits, etc.

  • Make it fun! Sing songs, blow bubbles, hide toys or snacks with the baby, ask them to find an animal in your camera lens, use rattles, lean in for little tickles, etc.

  • Remember to keep the baby's safety your top priority and plan all shots around poses that will keep the baby supported and secure. Always have a parent or two nearby to spot the baby, and give the toddler clues or magic words that will let them know when it's safe to get up and move.

mom holds two sons during newborn photos in studio with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs newborn photographer
big brother makes faces while baby brother sleeps during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer
parents hold baby boy while new big brother looks on during newborn session in studio with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer
dad holds two sons on couch in studio during newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom holds newborn son swaddled in white wrap during studio portraits with Nicole Starr Photography, newborn photographer
parents look at newborn baby in white wrap during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer
dad holds newborn son in white wrap during newborn photos in studio with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby in white onesie lays in blankets during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby sleeps curled up in white wrap during studio newborn photos with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs newborn photographer
baby sleeps in light grey warps during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby sleeps in white wrap laying on grey blanket during newborn photos in studio photographed by Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer
baby lays on blue blanket sleeping in white wrap on bed during newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby sleeps in white wrap laying on knit blue blanket in bed during newborn portraits with Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer
baby curls up in grey wrap on knit blanket during newborn portraits in studio with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby lays in grey blanket during newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

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A Checklist of What to Bring to Your Newborn Session

Preparing for your newborn session shouldn’t be a stressful experience! One of the reasons I love offering in-studio newborn portraits at my Saratoga Springs studio is that I’m able to take care of so much for my families. I want their newborn session to be something joyful, low stress, and enjoyable. So today, I’ve put together a quick checklist of what you should bring to your newborn sessions! You might be surprised that it’s just a few items…

Here’s what to bring to your newborn session:

A zip-up sleeper. Dress your little one in a zip-up sleeper (no snaps) so that it is easy to undress them when you arrive.

Pacifiers… Avoid a wub-a-nub or any pacifier with a stuffed animal attached to it, and just bring a plain pacifier. I like the Soothies brand, the green ones that the hospital uses because they’re easy to use and won’t leave any marks around baby’s face as they’re using them!

baby girl sleeps in crib during newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
what to bring to your newborn session: tips from Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

Milk! Be prepared to nurse or feed a bottle during the session, and bring whatever you need to be comfortable.

Comfy clothes for mom & dad to change into after we finish family portraits. I recommend light layers because we keep the studio toasty for the baby, who is used to a constant 98 degrees inside of you!

baby sleeps in white wrap laid on top of mustard blanket photographed by NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy sleeps in blue and white wrap during newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

Diapers. Most babies go through 2-3 diapers during their portrait session. Sometimes less, sometimes more. I keep newborn diapers in the studio that you are welcome to use, but it doesn't hurt to keep your diaper bag is well-stocked, too.

new parents look down at baby girl during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer
baby holds sonogram during NY newborn portraits with Nicole Starr Photography, New York newborn photographer

Patience. We work around the baby's mood and if they need breaks to eat, get changed, and be soothed, we take our sweet time and keep your little one comfortable. Some babies calm more easily than others, and some babies need a little extra time and attention to settle into the poses. Eventually all babies give in to the white noise, the shushing, the heat, and the power of a good swaddle, and I guarantee you that we will capture the most beautiful portraits of your little one even if they need a little longer to feel comfortable. Be patient and just remember that your baby is in good hands!

baby sleeps holding grey teddy bear during newborn portraits with Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer

That’s it - that’s all you need to bring to your newborn session. I have everything else on site that you might need including both a baby and mama wardrobe, carefully chosen props and setup pieces, and even spaces for families to rest during our portraits. Being a new parent can be hard, but having a successful newborn session is easy!


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what to bring to your newborn session: a checklist from Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

A colorful newborn session for Baby Rocco

Meet Rocco! He was my first newborn session of 2022! What a way to kick off the year in the studio. Rocco and his sweet parents came to the studio to document his arrival to their family. We kept with a fairly neutral color scheme, leaning into the white floor of the studio and added some pops of color in his setups. It was fun to find beautiful, warm colors for the winter to pair with his white outfits. We also had a little bit of fun with a wintery overlay to celebrate this little winter baby!

Rocco was just perfect during the session, cuddling up with his mom and dad. He slept for me during his individual! I’m sure the cozy knit wraps from Dede Props helped! Dede Props is one of my favorite places to get my newborn’s knit wraps and bonnets from. Located in Poland, everything is SO soft and beautiful - just perfect for my studio babies.

Enjoy scrolling through Rocco’s colorful newborn portraits in the studio from this winter! He’s so cute, I know you’re going to fall in love with him like I did!

baby holds snowflake on blue wrap with snowflake overlay during newborn portraits in studio with NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy in blue wrap sleeps curled up in wooden bucket during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy sleeps in white cotton wrap on dark yellow knit blanket during studio newborn session
baby boy sleeps in white wrap on mustard colored blanket during newborn session in studio with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy sleeps in white wrap on green blanket during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy in white sleeps holds grey lovey during newborn session in studio with Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer
baby boy in white sleeper lays on blanket during newborn session in studio with NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad holds son in studio during Saratoga Springs NY newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography
mom in light blue gown holds baby boy in white wrap during newborn session in studio with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom in blue gown holds son in studio during newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
two parents look down at baby boy in white wrap in mom’s arms during newborn session at studio with Nicole Starr Photography
mom in blue gown holds baby boy up to cheek during studio newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

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Studio Newborn Portraits for the Littlest Yankees Fan

Welcome to the world, Joseph Paul! How precious is this little guy? He came into the studio recently for his newborn portraits and I just can’t get enough of him. Joseph Paul was super alert during our session, giving me lots of wide-eyed looks. It was adorable! After a bit, he did fall asleep (I guess I must be boring ;O) and we were able to capture more traditional portraits of him swaddled up. That’s what the magic of a good swaddle, white noise, and heat in the studio will do!

When we were planning his newborn portraits, Joseph Paul’s parents asked if they could bring in a few special items. One of them was a onesie from the restaurant where they met for the first time. How sweet is that? I love that they wanted to honor the place that brought them together andstarted their love story - which lead to this sweet baby. His parents are also HUGE Yankees fans and brought in a jersey inspired onesie to celebrate that. We included Yankees colors throughout his sessions and I have to say, I always love a good blue and white color palette.

Enjoy a little look into this precious studio newborn session to celebrate Joseph Paul!


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