A peek inside an awake newborn session

At 3.5 weeks old, Patsy was wide-eyed for much of our session in my Saratoga Springs photography studio and we captured so much beautiful eye contact with this sweet girl. Working with awake newborns is much different than working with asleep newborns, but I always remind families that we can capture beautiful portraits of their babies whether they are awake or asleep. No matter what your little one (or their big sibling) might do, we’re going to document their arrival in the world, I promise! 

The trick with the awake babies is to keep them calm and relaxed, and usually a combination of swaddles, heat, white noise (or the amazing Baby Shusher app that all families who visit my studio wind up downloading!), and plenty of patience will get them to stay calm. When the babies are in my studio, I talk to them as if they can understand me, and parents often hear me whispering, “You can be awake, little one, as long as you stay calm.” Sometimes when the awake babies get really wiggly I’ll wrap them up in a swaddle with a layer underneath to keep them from pulling a Houdini and escaping with their arms flailing all over the place, and oftentimes then the parents will hear me telling their baby, “You’ve lost your arm privileges for a little bit!” 

Actually, now that I think of it, this may be why my clients often exclaim some version of “You’re like a baby whisperer! Can you come home with us?!” during their newborn sessions in the studio. It may sound silly, but it always works for me. Patsy was one of those sweet babies who was wide-awake but calm for us! She allowed me to work my magic and we captured so many sweet moments of her. We even got to use my favorite Moses basket and managed a darling portrait of her with her big brother.   

With more than a decade of experience photographing newborns, there are so many tricks up my sleeve. The babies all do give in to sleep eventually, but for some babies it just takes a little more time depending on their age and their digestion – upset stomachs mean upset babies, which always take a little longer to settle. Luckily we never rush our newborn sessions, and we take all the time we need to capture a wide variety of portraits (awake & asleep!) of all of the cute little babies.

Patsy, you are darling and I can’t wait to see you grow up! I am so happy I had the chance to document your beautiful eyes - and little personality!


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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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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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Beautiful newborn portrait session in Saratoga Springs

I’m so happy to be sharing Baby Sahana’s newborn session with you today on the blog! This winter, I captured maternity portraits for Shreya and I was anxiously waiting until their baby girl was born so we could plan her studio newborn session. Shreya and her family are part of our Collective Membership, where you can receive 4 sessions over the course of an 18th month period, so we’ve been able to document some special moments for them already. As a reminder, we’re currently  booking membership clients for 2024! This is perfect for your family if you’re planning to do 2 or more sessions over an 18 month period (not just for baby’s first year clients, either!).

For Baby Sahana’s portraits, Shreya wanted a soft and light color palette. She was excited to incorporate my Moses basket, as it was similar to the one Ariya was in when they did her newborn portraits in South Carolina. I was more than happy to include it - creating imagery that connects your sessions is important to me. 

The other great part about these portraits was that Sahana’s grandmother was present. It was really special to be able to capture all three generations in portraits of the women in the family. You can tell she’s enamored with her granddaughters - and I think the feeling is definitely mutual. I hope that she’ll be able to hold onto and treasure these portraits for years to come. Including other family members, like grandparents, is a wonderful way to create truly meaningful portraits to display in your home! 

I am SO happy I got to meet Baby Sahana now that she’s made her entrance in the world. Her session was really special to me, and I hope that her family loves it as much as I do!


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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

Neutral newborn portraits with soft gray accents for Baby Roland

I recently had the joy of capturing Baby Roland and his wonderful parents in my Saratoga Springs studio to celebrate his arrival! Roland was so adorable our entire session! He gave us lots of cute expressions when awake, and also so many sleepy snuggles. His parents decided on a neutral color palette - focusing on soft grey accents. Dad wore a light blue shirt and Mom’s cream dress was perfect to complement the pastel choices. They both looked amazing! The portraits of all three of them are honestly some of my favorites from the session. Holley and Michael are incredible and I know that Roland will love looking back on these moments in years to come. 

Holley and Michael came to me after Roland was born to book their portraits. While many families book their newborn session while they are in their second or third trimester, every now and then a family contacts me after their baby has already been born. They often find that they got caught up in all the preparations for baby’s arrival (car seats! onesies! diapers! swing! bassinet! alllllll the things!!), and then once the baby arrives the days pass by in a blur for the first couple of weeks. Often they look up from the chaos and realize how quickly their baby has grown and changed already in just a few short weeks, and that’s when they go, “Oh my goodness, we never booked a newborn session!” And so begins the hunt for a newborn photographer for their little one.

If that is you, don’t worry! We’re sometimes able to fit in last minute newborn bookings because of openings in our schedule, and we’re always able to capture stunning portraits of your brand new baby no matter how many weeks old they are. As you can see from Roland’s portraits, anything is possible - and in the end, you’ll have stunning portraits to remember how tiny your little baby once was! 

brunette mother in cream dress holds baby boy to cheek in cream wrap during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad in blue button down shirt hugs brunette mother in cream dress holding baby boy in cream wrap during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad in blue button down holds baby boy in cream wrap during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mother in cream dress with ruffled sleeves holds new baby boy in cream wrap against her chest during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad in blue button down holds baby boy in cream wrap while mom hugs them both and holds dad’s hand on son during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad in blue button down holds baby boy and looks at him in cream wrap during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad in blue button down holds baby boy in cream wrap while mom hugs them both during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad in blue button down holds baby boy and looks at him in cream wrap during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy in cream yawns laying in white and cream blankets during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy in cream looks at camera laying in white and cream blankets during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy in cream looks at camera laying in white and cream blankets during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy lays in white wrap next to grey bunny with his name on the ear on blue blanket during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy lays in white wrap smiling on grey blanket during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy lays curled up on grey knit blanket during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy’s toys peek out of grey knit outfit during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy lays in grey knit outfit on blue blanket during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

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Neutral newborn portraits for baby boy with soft gray accents photographed in Saratoga Springs studio with newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

Older Awake Newborn Photos With Lots of Smiles

I recently welcomed baby Kiran to my Saratoga Springs studio for his newborn portraits. This little guy was a month old when he and his parents came by, and we were able to enjoy lots of eye contact and adorable expressions during his session because he was a little bit bigger and more awake! I absolutely loved working with Kiran and his family to create their heirloom portraits celebrating his arrival to the world! 

For Kiran’s session, we incorporated lots of neutrals with white. I’m obsessed with their family portraits with everyone in white. They’re stunning! We included a few pops of soft sky blue and sage green, which coordinates nicely with his nursery and their decor at home. I always encourage families to think about where they want to display images when deciding on a theme or color palette. I know Kiran’s portraits are going to look perfect displayed at home! 

My favorite part of working with Kiran and his parents might be that we were able to create a special gallery wall in their home to feature their favorite portraits. I love knowing that they’re going to enjoy these images on their wall every single day as their little boy grows. That’s why I do what I do: I want you to remember these moments and be able to relieve them as time slips away. 

Kiran, thank you for being such a sweet boy for me in the studio! Your session brought me so many new favorite portraits and I hope you’ll always see how loved you truly are in these moments. 

new parents hold son in white onesie during newborn session with older baby photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad in white button up shirt holds son in white onesie in front of his chest during newborn session with older baby photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad in white button up shirt holds son in white onesie in front of his chest while mom looks over shoulder at son during newborn session with older baby photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom in white dress holds older newborn while dad hugs them both during newborn session with older baby photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad in white button up shirt holds son in white onesie in front of his chest during newborn session with older baby photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom in white dress holds son in white wrap while he smiles at her during newborn session with older baby photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad in white button up shirt holds son in white onesie in front of his chest during newborn session with older baby photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom in white dress holds son in white wrap while he smiles at her during newborn session with older baby photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom in white dress looks down at son laying on white blanket smiling during newborn session with older baby photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy in white zipper onesie lays on tiny pillow with eyes open and fists clenched during newborn session with older baby photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy in white zipper onesie lays on tiny pillow with eyes open and fists clenched during newborn session with older baby photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy lays in white wrap on sage green blanket during newborn session with older baby photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy lays in sage green wrap on chunky ivory blanket during newborn session with older baby photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy lays in sage green wrap on chunky ivory blanket during newborn session with older baby photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy lays on wicker basket in white wrap holding bunny during newborn session with older baby photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy sleeps in white wrap with sea green blanket around him during newborn session with older baby photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy sleeps in wicker stroller on chunky sky blue blanket during newborn session with older baby photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy sleeps in wicker stroller on chunky sky blue blanket during newborn session with older baby photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

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Older awake newborn portraits with lots of smiles for baby boy with white, sky blue and sage green palette photographed by 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.

White & blue newborn portraits in our light and airy studio

One of the most special parts of my job as a newborn photographer is getting to welcome families’ brand new babies and seeing their first babies turn into big siblings. It’s always so magical to have those deja vu moments when looking at the new little siblings and seeing similarities to their big brother or sister’s portrait session from a few years earlier. That was definitely true with sweet Parker’s session. About 2.5 years ago, I did his big brother Ollie’s newborn portraits. I was definitely experiencing deja vu as I photographed Parker! 

For Parker’s newborn session, we chose a simple palette of white and blue to incorporate in his outfits and setups. I always aim to keep things simple and focused on the baby in our light and airy studio, so that your portraits always remain classic and timeless. Nothing crazy, always classic! Parker looked so sweet, all bundled up and was an angel - sleeping well for me throughout the session. Ollie especially loved when Parker was in my Moses basket and he could look at Parker and fawn over him. It was SO sweet to watch him be so excited for his little brother. I know these two are going to be great friends one day! 

While Parker did sleep for most of his session, we did get a few portraits near the end of him with his eyes open. As much as I love sleeping portraits, I always adore babies with their eyes wide open! They’re so precious. Congratulations to Ollie and his family for welcoming Baby Parker to the world. I can’t wait to watch him grow! 

baby boy lays in white wrap in Moses blanket during Saratoga Springs NY studio with Nicole Starr Photography

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White and blue newborn portraits in our light and airy studio with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

Classic newborn & family portraits in our saratoga springs portrait studio

Welcome to the neighborhood, Kiran! Another beautiful baby was born in our neighborhood this year. We’re now up to SIX babies born within the neighborhood in the last year. I love that these little ones are going to grow up together. This newborn session was also special to me because I photographed Kiran’s big brother’s newborn portraits in 2019, too.

I loved seeing Ravi as a big brother. He was soooo excited and 100% into cuddling up with Kiran and taking pictures of the two of them together. We got the cutest sibling portraits! Amy and Raj also loved watching their boys together. I had a wonderful time catching up and hearing how the adjustment from three to four has been going for this sweet family.

For Kiran’s newborn portraits, we chose a classic setup and color palette featuring white and ivory setups and blue accents. Kiran looked so sweet nestled into all of the blankets and wraps during our portraits. He’s so precious and I adored the chance to meet him in my studio! Congratulations to this sweet family. I can’t wait to watch Kiran (and Ravi!) grow up!

baby boy in ivory wrap curled up during Saratoga Springs studio during newborn portraits with Nicole Starr Photography

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Classic newborn and family portraits in our Saratoga Springs portrait studio photographed by Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer

Welcome Home, Alexander Pearce

Baby Alex’s newborn session at our Saratoga Springs portrait studio was extra special for quite a few reasons. This sweet boy is the newest member of our neighborhood, and our little baby crew of neighborhood babies born in the last 12 months is now up to SIX BABIES! But even more special was this sweet boy’s surprise arrival. His dads wished and waited for three long years before bringing their baby home, and when they finally got that magical phone call they hopped in the car and drove for hours to go meet their son for the first time. This perfect little baby is now part of the sweetest family and he is already so showered in love.

Tim and Jeremiah are so full of love for their little boy. I was overwhelmed, in the best way possible, while they were in the studio. Every newborn session is special, but when parents wait as long as Tim and Jeremiah have to meet their newest family member, I can’t help but get a little teary and feel grateful. I feel extra grateful to have met Alexander because I’ll get to see him grow up in our neighborhood, too. 

For Alex’s session, we chose to use neutral ivories and whites as well as some blue accents in his setups. Tim and Jerremiah wore blue to bring their family portraits all together, too. Looking back through these portraits with them was so fun because I could already see how these portraits would be displayed and loved in their home for years to come. 

Welcome to the neighborhood, Alex. I can’t wait to get to know you and watch you grow! Congratulations, Tim and Jeremiah. I am so, so happy for you and your beautiful family!! 

black and white photo of baby boy in white wrap on white blanket during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad in blue button up shirt with white t-shirt underneath holds son to chest during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad looks down at newborn baby boy in white wrap with hands out in fists in the air during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

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Studio newborn portraits for newborn baby boy and dads in Saratoga Springs NY with New York 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

Cozy winter newborn portraits for Anna Marie

Welcome to the world (and to the neighborhood!), Anna Marie! I’ve been waiting for this sweet girl to make her appearance since her mom’s maternity portraits. Lauren and Tim welcomed their first baby girl this winter (on their 20 year dating anniversary!!!) and I had the honor of capturing both Lauren’s maternity portraits and their cozy winter newborn portraits after she arrived. If you read their first blog, you know that Lauren and Tim are special to us because they’re our neighbors and moved from Boston last year. We’re so excited to be raising little girls together and I can’t wait to watch Anna Marie grow alongside Adelaide and Grayson!

For Anna Marie’s newborn portraits, we knew we wanted to showcase the winter season. With lots of cozy laters and knits, we were able to help bring the season into her portraits. It was so special watching Lauren and Tim curl up with their little girl in my home studio. Every newborn portrait session is special, but this one meant a little extra! We also wanted to incorporate Lauren’s gorgeous yoga pillow into their newborn portraits, too. I loved being able to photograph this vibrant pillow again - now with Anna Marie nestled in the middle. It was a wonderful way to connect the two sessions and bring everything full circle.

‌Lauren and Tim, welcome to parenthood! I’m so thankful to know you both and now, to know your little girl. We can’t wait to see what this next chapter brings for you three!

mother in peach sweater holds baby girl against cheek during studio newborn session in Saratoga Springs NY with Nicole Starr Photography
parents smile holding new baby girl in white wrap with floral headband during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography
dad in mint green shirt holds baby girl kissing her forehead during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography
dad in mint green shirt holds baby girl in arms looking at her floral headband during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography
dad in mint green shirt and mom in peach sweater hold baby girl during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography
mother in peach sweater holds baby girl on chest asleep and curled up during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography
dad in mint green shirt holds baby girl on arm asleep during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography
dad in mint green shirt hugged by mother in peach sweater holds baby girl on arm asleep during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography
mother in peach sweater holds baby girl on chest asleep and curled up during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps in white wrap with white knit bow on chunky white blanket in studio during newborn portraits with Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer
baby girl sleeps in white wrap on white and red plaid blanket with wreathes behind her in studio during newborn portraits with Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer
baby girl lays in mauve knit outfits on tiny bed during studio newborn portraits with Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer
baby’s feet lay on end of bed during newborn portraits in studio with NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl in ivory wrap with knit cap lays on chunky knit blanket during newborn portraits in the winter with NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl in ivory wrap lays on chunky knit blanket during newborn portraits in the winter with NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl in white onesies yawns laying on vibrant yoga pillow during studio newborn portraits with Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl in white onesies yawns laying on vibrant yoga pillow during studio newborn portraits with Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl in white ruffle onesies lays curled up on pale pink blankets during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer
baby girl in white ruffle onesies lays curled up on pale pink blankets during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer
baby girl in white ruffle onesies lays curled up on pale pink blankets during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer

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cozy winter newborn portraits in studio for baby girl with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

Best of 2022 Newborn Sessions

What a year! 2022 marked my tenth year in business, and I am so incredibly grateful to every single family that trusts me to capture their most special moments and milestones for them. My son is in his second year of preschool, and one of the things that his teacher has told us parents multiple times is “Thank you for sharing your children with us.” I absolutely love the sentiment, and I feel the exact same way toward each of the families that I work with. SO, THANK YOU. Thank you for sharing your children with me, and thank you for allowing me the privilege of creating artwork that showcases your family’s story. This truly is a dream job, and it is such a joy working with so many lovely families and their babies.

Newborn sessions have always held a special place in my heart, and those tiny little babies with their sleepy yawns and soft, round cheeks are what drew me to become a portrait photographer in the first place.

We welcomed our second baby into our family this year, a baby girl named Adelaide. And as we introduced her to long-time family friends, it occurred to me that for some of them, it had been DECADES since they had last held a baby that small. It is not lost on me how special this job is that I get to do this every day for my job. It really is an honor to be able to hold these brand new babies week after week, curling them up into the sweetest poses and watching magic unfold when they are snuggling in their parents' arms.

Every January, I love sharing a roundup post of some of my favorite portraits from newborn sessions over the past year. I hope you enjoy these sweet little babies as much as I do! This year they will all be coming up on their first birthday, and I look forward to seeing them back in the studio for their first birthday cake smash!

baby girl sleeps curled up in mint blanket with floral headband photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps in pink lace outfit in wooden bed photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
parents hold baby while toddler big brother looks on sitting on sofa in New York studio with NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps with white bow in Moses basket photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
parents hold baby in white wrap during newborn portraits in New York studio with NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby sleeps in chunky wrap with lilac pieces around her during newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom in white dress holds baby girl in white wrap with pink headband in Saratoga Springs NY studio with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
parents hold newborn baby girl in studio during newborn portraits with NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
mom holds baby in white wrap during studio newborn session with NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
dad holds toddler daughter and new baby boy in nursery during lifestyle newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer
baby girl lays in white wrap on sea green blanket during studio newborn session with NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
big sister sits on sofa holding baby girl with pink bow photographed by NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy lays curled up in white wrap against blue chunky blanket during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer
baby boy lays with hand under chin in white wrap on wooden bed during Saratoga Springs newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography
baby sleeps in eskimo inspired wrap and hat laying on cream knit blanket during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby sleeps in blue wrap holding wooden snowflake with snow overlay during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby sleeps in white wrap on top of gauzy blue wrap during studio newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby lays with eyes open in white wrap with purple floral headband on chunky knit blanket during studio newborn portraits with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby boy lays sleeping holding grey movie in white onesie during newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl sleeps on mauve blanket with mauve flowers around basket during studio newborn session with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby lays in white wrap on purple knit blanket with flowers during studio newborn portraits with NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby lays under white blanket with white and gold headband during New York newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays in wooden bed with bright red wrap and headband during newborn session with Saratoga Springs newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
newborn baby girl lays on peach blanket on wooden seat during newborn portraits in studio with Nicole Starr Photography, NY newborn photographer
newborn baby girl lays in white wrap on green and peach blankets during studio newborn session with Albany NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby lays in tan wrap with knit hat during newborn portraits in Saratoga Springs NY studio with Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays on peach blanket with pink floral headband during newborn portraits with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
parents look down at new baby in white wrap during newborn session in Saratoga Springs studio with Nicole Starr Photography
parents sit with children on bed during lifestyle newborn session with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
big brother leans over baby sister with floral headband in Moses basket during studio newborn session with New York newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby girl lays in white wrap on peach blanket with cozy knit hat during studio newborn session with Nicole Starr Photography

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best of 2022 newborn sessions with Saratoga Springs 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

My favorite textured knits for winter baby portraits

Like all baby photographers, I love prop shopping and adding to my studio's collection. I have many favorite pieces in the studio that I use for nearly every newborn session, and these go-to items photograph beautifully and are well-loved. I always opt for classic neutrals that will match with everything, and I keep my colors in line with my style and the style/color palette that most of my clients use in their homes, too.

grey textured knits, outfits, and hats for newborn baby session in the winter with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer

As the I get the studio ready for all of the winter newborns that will be coming to the studio for their first portrait session, I’ve been shopping for new knits for the studio. During the winter, I’m all about creating soft and cozy layers for your baby. We have a huge variety of hand-knit props from talented artists all around the globe. Wraps, layers, bonnets, sleepy caps, blankets, rompers, overalls, and so much more. They add such beautiful texture to your portraits, creating visual interest - and help keep your little one warm and cozy, too!

baby wrapped in white knit blanket on chunky textured blanket photographed by Saratoga Springs newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

Everything you need for your baby’s first portraits, all in one place.

One advantage of going to a photographer who provides everything for you is that they already know what fabrics and colors will photograph best, and you don't ever have to worry about choosing something that is cute in person but doesn't look quite right in the finished portraits. I have everything you need in the studio for your little one's portrait session. Choose from outfits, headbands, wraps and swaddles, bump blankets, bonnets and hats to make your baby’s look complete! 

white textured knits, outfits, and hats for newborn baby session in the winter with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer

During winter sessions, I try to mix chunky knits with softer, finer woven knits, pairing similar colors for a monochromatic look, or using mostly whites with a pop of color. My goal is to make it easy to focus on your baby in your portraits and showcase just how tiny and perfect they are!

baby boy sleeps in blue blanket holding snowflake during newborn portraits with Nicole Starr Photography
white chunky textured blankets photographed by Saratoga Springs newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography
baby lays on peach knit blanket and bonnet photographed by Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer Nicole Starr Photography

Some of the most popular colors for newborn portraits in our studio are:

white
cream
slate blue or navy blue
mint green or sage green
lavender
blush pink
gray or greige

pink and peach pastel textured knits for newborn baby session in the winter with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer
cream textured knits and hats for newborn baby session in the winter with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer
blue textured knits, outfits, and hats for newborn baby session in the winter with Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer

As you can see, choosing the perfect outfit for your baby’s portraits can be easy and fun! Make sure to talk with your newborn or baby photographer to find out what they have on hand this winter for the perfect, cozy look for your little one!


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textured knits for winter baby portraits photographed by Nicole Starr Photography, Saratoga Springs NY newborn photographer

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