Milestone Portraits for Baby Jacob - Saratoga Springs Baby Photographer

Sitter sessions. That’s what we call a portrait session when baby is sitting up unassisted. These is one of my favorite stages to capture on camera, and I always adore the happy babies that come to our Saratoga Springs baby portrait studio for their milestone sessions when they are in this stage. They love sitting up, showing off their new skills, and checking out the world around them. They laugh and giggle, they have the biggest smiles when I bring out the rattles or the bubbles, they are curious about everything, and they really are such a joy to capture on camera.

Of course, baby Jacob was 100% all of that, and more!

All of his outfits were from the studio wardrobe, which meant that his mom and dad didn’t need to bring a thing to their session! We chose a bunch of favorites when they arrived and it made it so nice and easy for them not to have to even worry about finding outfits ahead of time because there were a lot of beautiful, neutral options here at the studio.

I loved this sweet boy’s milestone session, and we even captured a few portraits with his big brother because big brother wasn’t totally feeling the sibling portraits 7 months ago back when we did Jacob’s newborn session and he was still adjusting to his new role as big brother. But you know what? That is soooooo common and it happens often with toddlers when the new baby is brought home. But this time around, big brother Jonas was thrilled to cuddle up with his baby brother and we captured the sweetest moments between the two of them! Some kids need a little time to warm up to their new baby, but once they do it is pure magic that unfolds and I know these two are going to have the strongest bond as they share many adventures together!

Check out Jacob’s newborn session here and see how much he has grown!

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FAQ's for Baby Photographers | Saratoga Springs NY and Boston MA Newborn Photographer

I’ve been a baby photographer since 2012, and I’ve had the privilege of photographing hundreds of adorable babies & children in New York & Massachusetts.  Before every session I schedule a pre-consultation with my clients, and it’s usually a simple phone call to answer any questions and give them a feel for what the session involves. 

Over the years I’ve answered the same questions dozens of times, so I thought I would compile them into a helpful FAQ post for new clients!

Have a question that I haven’t answered here?  Drop me an email to hello@nicolestarrphotography.com and I would be happy to chat with you!

What is the best age to photograph?  I’m worried my baby is too young — or too old!

Our newborn sessions typically take place during the first two weeks after a baby is born.  I usually like to see babies at the studio after day 5 because they’re getting the hang of eating by then, and if your baby had a circumcision he’ll be healed and comfortable on his belly by then.

BUT WHY SO YOUNG?  Well, during those first two weeks your baby is still getting used to life outside the womb.  They are very sleepy and flexible, allowing me to achieve many of those adorable and cozy poses with them all curled up tight.  After two weeks their limbs become more rigid and less flexible, and they are often much more alert as they begin to stretch and explore the space around them.  Baby acne usually arrives between weeks 3-4, so ideally we’ll plan your session before then. 

For milestone sessions, around months 3-4 is perfect because your little one is smiling, reacting to the world around them, and getting used to tummy time with better neck control by then.  I also love love LOVE milestone sessions between months 6-9 when your baby is sitting up unassisted.  When babies are upright they are so happy and content, and their personality just shines.  This is my favorite age to photograph!

For birthday sessions, we schedule these between months 10-13 depending on how soon before the first birthday party you would like your finished artwork!

Help!  I have no idea what I want to do with my photos!

I hear this all the time, and many families originally think, “I’ll just get the digitals and decide later on.”  But you know what happens 90% of the time when families do this?  Those JPEGs sit in a file on their computer and never get looked at.  Life gets in the way and the images never get printed for a year, two years, three years.

That’s why I make it a priority to schedule your gallery reveal and ordering appointment within two weeks of your session.  We set aside an hour together to go through your gallery, see what products there are, and find which possibilities are the very best fit for your family!  I want to help you enjoy your images & artwork right away, and to find the best way for your images to fit into your lifestyle. 

Here are a few popular possibilities for what to do with your images besides lose them on a hard drive somewhere:
-Create birth announcements, birthday party invitations, or thank you cards to mail to family & friends
-Enjoy a linen-covered album from your session, or from your baby’s entire first year!
-Decorate the walls of your nursery.  We can even plan your session style to coordinate with the nursery theme and colors.  
-Grandparents love photo gifts.  Let’s give them some beautiful new artwork!
-Hang a large family portrait in a  place that will put a smile on your face every day.

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Where do your sessions take place?

Most of our portrait sessions are in the studio.  Lifestyle newborn sessions and lifestyle family sessions take place at home — these are relaxed and generally unposed, and I don’t bring props or complicated set-ups with me.  These sessions showcase real life happening in real spaces in your home. 

I love shooting outdoors in the warmer months.  Here in the northeast, that generally means May through October, but for really young babies who are sensitive to temperature changes, I would recommend scheduling between June and September if you’re hoping to head outside.    Warm babies are happy babies, and happy babies make for great photographs!

What do you have in your studio?

Lots of simple backdrops, neutral colors, a few classic props, faux fur rugs, plenty of wraps and blankets, headbands, and handmade tiny outfits.  I do use one studio light for all of our sessions, so you’ll see a big umbrella with a light in it, too.  During our newborn sessions we turn the heat WAY up in the studio so that your little one is comfy, and it’s very toasty in there with our fake fireplace going strong.

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I’m so worried that my child is going to be fussy or cranky!  What happens then?  

Kids and babies are so unpredictable, and I am used to their changing moods.  Most babies act differently on photo day because they’re in a new space, with a new person, and they can sense that their parents are stressed or nervous.  First, I recommend that you stay calm and trust me to capture beautiful images of your baby.  Know that we will go with the flow and do everything possible to keep your baby in a cheerful mood.  If your baby senses that you are anxious, they will feed off of your anxiety, so stay calm!

I have so many tricks for newborns to create an environment that will lull them into a relaxed state.  You’ll see me use heat, wraps, shushing, rocking, and other little tricks to put them right to sleep.

Older babies are easily distracted and I’ll use songs, games, and toys to grab their attention.  If they start to get fussy, a quick distraction with a new toy or song will engage them and make them forget whatever it was they were fussing about in the first place!  Some babies need a break for fresh air, a walk around the studio, a favorite snack, cuddles, or a song on your phone.  That’s okay!  I am always generous with time, and if your little one needs a few extra minutes to settle in we’ll take our time.  Follow my lead, and we’re going to have a great time together!

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What if my child is sick the day of the session?

Tell me right away!  Healthy babies are happy babies, and I’m usually able to reschedule your session.  Ideally you’ll tell me as far in advance as you are able (48 hours before is perfect if you notice your little one is coming down with something), but we don’t want to force a baby through a session when you know that he’s cranky because he has a fever.

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This is kind of embarrassing, but I’m worried my baby might pee (or poop!) on something in the studio…

It wouldn't be the first time that has occurred!  Poop happens, and it’s nothing to worry about. 

We keep wipes on hand to clean everything up quickly, and everything gets washed and sanitized after the session.  Don’t be embarrassed, and please don’t apologize a million times.  I expect a little mess to happen with every session, and if we get a baby who doesn’t soil something during their session, I consider it a fluke and we were very lucky that day!

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What should my baby wear? 

For studio newborn sessions, you don’t have to bring a thing!  I have everything you need in the studio.  Your images will be classic and timeless with a simple wrap, bare skin, or one of my unique hand-knit outfits that are so tiny and perfectly sized for your baby.

For lifestyle newborn sessions, we’ll also use wraps or pretty swaddles that you have at home.  A classic white onesie is always perfect — the smaller the better.  Because newborns are so tiny, they are swimming in most newborn clothes and all that extra fabric never photographs well, so be sure to try their outfit on ahead of time to ensure that it’s snug and not too baggy.

Milestone sessions are a little bit different.  For 3-4 months we’ll generally just do a few wraps and simple rompers that I have in the studio.  If you have a snug knit outfit (so many cute options at Zara Baby!), send me a picture ahead of time.

For 6 months and up, there are so many cute options for your baby.  Check out Etsy for adorable rompers and overalls in knit fabrics.  Look for neutral colors that aren’t too busy or distracting for the most classic look.  Details like lace, pockets, stripes, texture, and embroidery are always fun, too. 

A note on headbands — babies have tiny heads.  Let’s not overwhelm them with huge puffy flower headbands.  I have petite tiebacks that are the perfect size to complement your baby’s perfect features without being too distracting.  If you’d like to bring something, the smaller the better. 

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How about those cute crocheted outfits I see at big box stores and on Etsy?

Okay, I’m going to be really honest with you here….  No.  Don’t do it.  Those crocheted turtles, foxes, and firemen outfits are never the proper size for a newborn baby.  They are always much too big and leave gaping holes when you put them on the baby, plus the crochet stitch doesn’t lie as smoothly to hug a baby’s curves like knitting does. 

Plus I have found that the yarn is usually a very poor quality that causes the poor little babies to overheat, and nearly 100% of the time when you put a baby in one of those hats and diaper covers they get itchy and hot.  They’re fussy and inconsolable within seconds.  I’m sorry to say it, but as cute as they are on the hanger they’re not that cute on a fussy, crying, sweating baby. 

Instead, we can do a tiny prop or accent in your set-up to represent that turtle, fox, fireman (or whatever other theme it is you loved!).  I’ve had babies holding their dad’s police badge, posed on a fireman’s helmet, and snuggling up with a tiny felted animal like a teddy bear or a penguin.  I’ll use the outfits we have in the studio that are high-quality fibers that allow your baby’s skin to breathe, and that are sized perfectly to their tiny bodies.  

Welcome Home, Vivian Jane: A Lifestyle Newborn Session with Saratoga Springs Newborn Photographer

Lifestyle sessions always steal my heart.  There is something so magical about being invited into a family's home to capture their quiet moments together as they welcome their brand new baby into the family, and I love visiting them in their space and documenting these moments for them to show their children one day that THIS is the space we brought you home to when you were born. 

Even if they change houses and move states, there is something so amazing about that first home that holds so many newborn memories for them.  The first cuddles, the first smiles.  So many late night feedings, and quiet moments just watching your baby breathe in and out when they're (finally!) asleep.  The walls are filled with stories, and it's always an honor to be invited into their space to capture the beginning of this new love story for their family.

Vivian Jane's house was filled with natural light, and we started off in the bedroom with a simple wrap and a knit blanket that I brought from the studio.  Her mom bought a few headbands before the session for a sweet girly touch.  

Family portraits are always my favorite during our lifestyle newborn sessions at home.  Tina & Curtis cuddled up on the bed with their baby girl, and we captured some quiet moments of the three of them together.  

Are you wondering where in your house we might capture a few portraits?  If you have a sliding door, there's a pretty good chance we'll go there for lots of natural light to flood your portraits!  I love these moments we captured in their living room that show their beautiful bond with their new daughter, and a hint at their style with their furniture and decor showing in the background. 

Check out a few recent lifestyle sessions for some at-home newborn inspiration!

John Aldrich
Connor James
How to Know if a Lifestyle Session is Right for You

 

Booking a Safe Newborn Photographer - Saratoga Springs NY Newborn Photographer

A Donut Smash for Dylan's First Birthday with Union Square Donuts | Boston Baby Photographer

Who said cake smashes can only include cake?  Dylan celebrated her first birthday with donuts from Union Square Donuts in Somerville, and I'm in love!!

This donut smash was such a fun way to celebrate Dylan's first birthday, and I love that her mom came to me with a totally unique idea, inspired to try something new and give her daughter a birthday experience that was extra special to their family -- they are regular Sunday morning customers at their local donut shop, of course!

Of course, dad couldn't resist jumping in for a bite!  I always love it when babies get to happy to share their birthday smash food with family, and this is definitely a favorite moment captured from Dylan's session!

All of our birthday sessions include family portraits, and one-year olds are so much fun to play with!  Dylan's mom and dad enjoyed cuddles, tickles, and so many sweet little giggles from their birthday girl!  She was just learning to walk at the time of her session, and I am obsessed with the images of her walking with her daddy.  Her expressions are priceless!

Did you love this session?  Looking for inspiration for your cake smash?  Check out our blog post with 70+ theme ideas (including food alternatives!) for your baby's cake smash session.

Sleepy Newborn Photos - Saratoga Springs & Boston Newborn Photographer

Ask any newborn photographer -- there is nothing we love more than a sleepy, cuddly newborn baby!  Those little baby yawns that come right before they slip into what we lovingly call a "milk drunk" state of sleep are the best!  

So why do photographers love sleepy newborn babies so much?  Well, they are much easier to settle into a pose without stretching or startling themselves awake.  For a baby that is just a week or two old, when they are awake they typically want to eat.  Of course, you didn't hire a newborn photographer to capture dozens of photos of your baby eating, so we like a baby to have a full belly and be nice and settled during their session.

When a newborn baby is in a deep sleep during a studio session, it's easy to move them from the beanbag to buckets and other small props to curl them up inside of.  

This also gives your photographer the chance to really slow down and zoom in on all of the details that you don't want to forget -- their perfect pout, the flaky newborn skin on their hands, their tiny toes, and that thin layer of downy newborn hair on their back.

Plus, sleepy newborn smiles are OH-SO-AMAZING!!!

But do newborn babies need to be asleep during their newborn sessions?
No, of course not!  

I actually love it when they're awake for a few shots so that we can capture their sparkly eyes and intense gaze.  Check out yesterday's blog post filled with so many of
our favorite awake newborn images from recent sessions!
 

A Studio Newborn Session with Tulips - Boston Newborn Photographer

You know how some things were just meant to be, and certain paths were meant to lead people together?  I 100% believe in that, and it rang true with sweet little Brynley Marie's newborn session at our Attleboro portrait studio.

Right before her session I headed to the florist to pick up some fresh blooms for Brynley's session.  After a streak of one newborn boy after another, I was excited to bring some pretty florals in for a baby girl.  I knew I wanted tulips, and there were only two colors there that day: pink or yellow.  I went with the pink, and I'm so glad I did!  Read on to hear the full story.  

When Brynley's mother walked into the studio and saw the little setup with our pink tulips, I turned around right as I heard her exclaim, "Oh my god, pink tulips!" 

Although we had never talked about this in our pre-consultation, the fates aligned as Jill told me the story of pink tulips in her life.  When Jill (baby Brynley's mother) was born, her aunt brought her a bouquet of pink tulips in the hospital.  Every year after that, her mother gave her pink tulips on her birthday.  When Brynley was born, the excited new grandmother brought pink tulips into the hospital to welcome her granddaughter into the world.  And then at her newborn portrait session, I coincidentally also had pink tulips for this sweet baby girl!

Truly, it couldn't have been more perfect!

We didn't stop with just tulips!  This springtime baby enjoyed lots of beautiful florals in her session, and I am in LOOOOOOOVE with the portraits that we created in the studio.  Brynley was nice and sleepy, which allowed us to capture these sweet poses all curled up and dreamlike.

Capturing portraits of the new mommy & daddy is always one of my favorite parts of our newborn sessions.  It's so magical to be able to see yourself through someone else's eyes, capturing the swirl of emotions that you're feeling during your first days as a family of three.  These are portraits that you're going to come back to year after year, when your baby no longer curls up in your arms or comes to you asking you to kiss their boo-boo.  

Many years from now when they are all grown up, your baby will have a baby of their own.  And you know what they'll want to see, hear, and know?  What life was like for YOU as a new parent when you welcomed them into your family.  They will want to connect with you and share in this life-changing experience with you.  These family portraits are the very beginning of their story, and they are worth capturing every single time.  

I tell all of the moms & dads that I work with -- get in the picture.  You will never, ever regret it.

Check out a few of our recent studio newborn sessions!  

Killian's Cream & Gray Newborn Session

Blake Vivian's Nautical Newborn Session

We are now booking newborns at our Saratoga Springs & Attleboro studios, and the best time to book is during your second trimester.  Be sure to reserve your spot early as we do fill up quickly!

Our New Brand & Website #NSPLaunchDay

The day is finally here to unveil our beautiful new website & brand!  I am head over heels in love with how everything has come together to create a beautiful, airy, whimsical & pure storytelling look and feel.  

I have spent so many months digging deep into the heart behind my business, into finding the true story behind why I do what I do and how this best serves the families that I work with.  At conferences, in workshops, and in every business article written for creative entrepreneurs they tell you to find the WHY behind your brand.  Friends, I've found it.

I've realized that I've always had a fascination with stories (read more about this on the "Meet Nicole" section of our website!).  Everyone has a story to tell, and everyone's story is worth celebrating.  Being invited into my clients' lives to capture these stories and preserve these memories is such an honor, and I've worked hard to show this throughout my website.

So, how did this all happen?

I first connected with Erica at The Refinery in the fall when I was looking for a designer to help me with a full rebrand and website design.  I had heard amazing things about her, and I loved the clean lines and simplicity of her work.  After a few FaceTime coffee dates to share our ideas for the rebrand, we set a date to begin working on the content!

It all started with pinning pretty & sparkly images on Pinterest, and then turning them into an inspiration board for my brand.  This board represents the look, feel, focus, color scheme, and fonts of the new Nicole Starr Photography.  Three weeks ago, this was just a dream.  A pretty little collection of images.  Today, I can clearly see how it all comes together in my website, logo, and collateral materials.

From there, we pulled together all of my favorite elements to create a truly stunning logo that represents everything pure, magical, and airy about my website.  We went through a few different versions of the logo, and my friends and other creative colleagues lent their opinions to help me find the one that best represented my business.  

Here is the gorgeous logo that we settled on for the primary logo.  I love the stars, the soft colors, and the whimsical script paired with a timeless and classic serif font below.

Then came the web design!  But first, I had to decide what I wanted to include on my new website.  This was the difficult part.  I spent hours upon hours sketching ideas, writing content, and editing everything to perfection before sending it all off to Erica to work her magic.

I have been dreaming big ever since returning from the Creative at Heart conference last November, and there were so many new changes I wanted to implement and start offering to the families that I work with.  Among those were Fresh 48 sessions, a Baby Registry, and a SpokesMama program.  All of these are to better help you tell your story.  I'll be featuring each of these this week on social media through "In the Spotlight" posts sharing a little bit about each one.  In the meantime, be sure to check them out here on the website because I am oh-so-excited about each and every one.

Erica is a genius at web design, and before I knew it she had turned all of these big ideas into a beautiful, cohesive, and stunning website!  I woke up one morning and saw that she had sent me the first draft of the website in the middle of the night (there was a slight time difference with me on the East coast and her on the West coast).  My first response?  "OH MY GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!  It's so beautiful!"  

I was speechless and couldn't even believe that this beautiful webpage featuring images of so many stunning families was mine!  She took this dream and turned it into something concrete and oh-so-beautiful.  I'm still in awe.

I started this business 4 years ago as a creative outlet, and it has turned into something so much more beautiful & powerful than I ever imagined.  There have been so many milestone markers along the way that have made me feel like this dream is really going to BE something. Every single one has felt like a celebration to me.  Including this one, the latest one.

The first time I saw my images printed.  
The first time I published a blog post.  
The first time I held my business cards in my hands.  
The first time I hung a 16x20 canvas of my work.  
The first time I reached a $1000 sale.  
The first time I took my time to develop a real packaging style.
The first time I hosted a family in my studio.  
That time when I left my teaching job after 6+ years in the classroom to pursue my dream.  
The first time I hosted a beginners photography workshop.
The first time I followed a family through their entire baby's first year of photos.
That time I was asked to go to NYC for the NDSS photo shoots.
The first time another photographer hired me for her family's portraits.  

And now... the first time that my vision and my dream has truly been brought to life thanks to the amazing work of The Refinery.  

To all of my creative friends: if you're thinking of hiring a web designer to bring you to the next level of your business, just do it.  It's truly the best decision I've made for my business and I know that it's going to serve the families that I work with so much better.

To all of the families that have followed me on this journey and been so incredibly supportive: thank you.  Your stories mean the world to me, and your family's images are the best thing on this new website of mine.  I can't wait to capture more magical moments for your family, and I look forward to helping you tell many more stories that you & your children will cherish for a lifetime.

One last thing...  To thank you for being so amazing, we're hosting a giveaway on our Facebook page.  Be sure to enter the contest before Friday at noon!  You can view all of the details on our Facebook page.

2015 Year in Review Video by Nicole Starr Photography

2015 has truly been an incredible year, and I want to thank all of you for sharing so many magical moments with me!  

Enjoy this beautiful little video of some of our favorite images from the year.  I look forward to another beautiful year of storytelling in 2016!

To every family that asked me to tell their story: thank you.
To every mom who let me cuddle her newborn baby: thank you.
To every dad that wanted to surprise his wife with a keepsake gift: thank you.
To every creative entrepreneur that connected, laughed, shared, asked, taught, and learned with me this year: thank you.

And to every single person that connected with the stories in my photographs, commented on my images, shared their own stories with me, and let these beautiful families into their hearts through the images that I shared with you: THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU.

A Dr. Seuss Cake Smash | Boston & Albany Baby Photographer

JJ's cake smash was extra special. It wasn't just the Dr. Seuss theme that I created to match his nursery, or the sweet little outfit that his mom found on Etsy with the most adorable bow tie. It's the story behind what you see in these photos.

I first met JJ in October as a part of our gift sessions to local families for National Down Syndrome Awareness Month. With his 1st birthday coming up, his mom knew she wanted to celebrate with a photo session in December. When we first talked about celebrating with a birthday session for JJ, I could tell how important this was to her to give her son this amazing and fun experience that is so typical for one-year olds.  

Though she did have one lingering question -- What about the cake?  JJ receives his nutrition through a feeding tube, and he is a healthy and happy little boy thanks to an amazing team of doctors and two loving parents.  Because he has Down syndrome, JJ may take a little longer to reach certain milestones such as sitting and eating on his own, but he is still their little baby who is turning one later this week, and it was so important that we document this milestone by adapting our cake smash to meet his needs.  His mom really wanted the cake, the messy frosting, the whole experience. So of course, we made it happen!

JJ's cake is actually filled with two pieces of styrofoam that I then decorated to look just like a giant cupcake. His frosting is extra squishy for those little fingers to explore.  I went out searching for the perfect vintage high chair to support him comfortably in a seated position, and I found it at a new antique & gift shop in Sudbury, Laurel Grove. These were two easy little tweaks that allowed this handsome baby to enjoy his cake smash.  JJ got to celebrate his first birthday with a birthday cake & a sugar high, just like his big sister did 5 years ago when she turned one.

So while the photos are oh-so-sweet, it's the story behind the images that truly speaks to my heart, and I hope to yours as well! Leave this birthday boy a little loving below in the comments, and tell us what you liked most about his session!

And of course, these photos of JJ pre-cake smash (and pre-blue frosting!) are too cute not to share.  I love how he is just chilling in the first one!  Such a cutie!

Would you like to see more photos of JJ?   Check out our post from Down Syndrome Awareness Month that features this little guy and so many other heart warming stories from local families.

Finally, want to learn more about Nicole Starr Photography's photo sessions in the Down syndrome community?  Read this amazing post about our collaboration with the National Down Syndrome Society for a series of rockin' photo shoots in NYC earlier this month!

Making Spirits Bright | Our Studio Holiday Sessions

Fa la la la laaaaaa, la la la laaaaaa. As I type this post, my studio smells like a Christmas tree, tiny lights are twinkling behind me, a peppermint marshmallow candle glows on the table, and Ella Fitzgerald is singing Christmas carols on Pandora.   There are presents to be wrapped, cookies to be baked, and cards to be mailed.  And there's definitely a mug of hot chocolate waiting for me somewhere.  It's mid-December, and our holiday cheer is officially at 100%.

I love the holiday season.  Could you tell?  ;o)   The lights, the traditions, the scents, the cozy foods, the gatherings with friends & family.  There is nothing better than those first few weeks of December when the world is a truly magical place.  These are the weeks when everyone is talking about their elves, Santa, and flying reindeer.  The tree in your living room inspired breathtaking wonder, and the colorful lights in your neighborhood fill your evenings with cheer.  The magic of childhood is more tangible than ever.  That same magic that I adore capturing all throughout the year is on full display this month, and I feel so, so lucky to be able to preserve that for the families that I work with.

We hosted our first in-studio holiday sessions, and I had so much fun creating the perfect dreamy set up for our little ones.  We turned the studio into a winter wonderland, a soft cloud-like space where children sat beneath golden stars and told me all about their wishes for Santa and what their elves had been up to lately.  There were giggles, jingle bells, Christmas jammies, candy canes, and songs.

Our holiday sessions were short and sweet, and allowed just enough time for a simple rustic set up, too!  After all, I acquired a vintage sled from another photographer over the summer, and I couldn't let a holiday season pass without using it for some adorable photos!

Wishing you all a magical holiday season!  Take the time to slow down, create memories, and start a new tradition with your family.

Create magic, and inspire wonder.  After all, that's what childhood is all about!

A Musical First Birthday Cake Smash

Her name is Melody.  She loves music, singing, and dancing.  Of course we were going to do a musical themed cake smash for her first birthday photo session!

There are about a million and one reasons why I love cake smash sessions.  Cute babies, cake & creativity top the list.  I had this idea for a backdrop of floating hearts created from sheet music, and it came out just as beautiful as I had imagined it would.  I love when that happens!

music musical notes first birthday cake smash

pink, teal, and gray cake smash

It wasn't long before Melody knocked the entire cake right off of the cake stand.  Let the smashing begin!  She really got into it -- just check out her toes in these next few photos!  I just love it when the babies get so into the smashing that it is all they can focus on.  So sweet!

music musical notes first birthday cake smash

pink, teal and gray cake smash

pink and teal cake smash session

baby cake smash birthday photo session

The end of the smash always gives us the most comical reactions from the babies -- "What do you mean that cake's all gone?  And you want to wash me?  No way!!!"

music musical notes first birthday cake smash

Want to see the birthday girl in action?   Check out this adorable video clip!  I'm pretty certain that Melody LOVED her birthday cake!!

[video width="320" height="576" mp4="http://nicolestarrphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/30-3380-post/video-1446218810.mp4.mp4"][/video]

Happy birthday, baby girl!

View the rest of Melody's birthday session & family photos here.

The Arnold Arboretum for Rustic Family Photos

A first birthday is such an amazing time, especially the first birthday of your very first baby!  You're celebrating your first year of parenthood, your first year as a family of three, and 365 days of this amazing little one that has changed your lives for the better.

This family reached out to me to capture their daughter's first birthday photos, and as always we combined Melody's session with a beautiful family session to capture the love and the amazing bonds shared between this sweet little family of three (almost four -- baby #2 is on the way!).  We headed to the Arnold Arboretum to a nice secluded area near Peters Hill for the most gorgeous fall photos.

This baby girl is so, so loved!!

boston baby photographer fall family photos

boston baby photographer fall family photos, arnold arboretum

boston baby photographer fall family photos

boston baby photographer fall family photos, arnold arboretum

boston baby photographer fall family photos

We enjoyed gorgeous fall colors and sparkling sunlight at Peters Hill in the Arnold Arboretum.  I always try to find unique areas for my sessions, and when we revisit a location with a new family, my goal is to discover amazing little spots that we have not captured on camera before.  This little area of the woods was perfect for that with so many gorgeous areas bathed in the most amazing light.  I absolutely love this spot for amazing rustic photos nestled off in the woods.  Melody was quite intrigued by the pine needles carpeting the ground.

boston baby photographer fall family photos, arnold arboretum

boston baby photographer fall family photos maternity photos

boston baby photographer fall family photos

boston baby photographer fall family photos

boston baby photographer fall family photos

Afterwards, we headed back to the studio for the rest of Melody's session, including her first birthday cake smash!  Be sure to check out her musical cake smash here.  It was so much fun, and she really got into her cake!

Happy Birthday, baby girl!

A Dreamy Session with Newborn Twins | Albany & Saratoga Springs Newborn Photographer

Sometimes miracles come in pairs.

Finley Grace & Bella James

I love photographing newborns.  Absolutely adore it.  But when you bring newborn twins to me?  Oh my gosh, I'm in heaven!

After arriving one month early and spending some time in the NICU, I was so excited to finally snuggle with these baby girls in the studio.  They are just the sweetest little things, and I adored our session together.  Creamy, dreamy, whimsical & soft are my favorite types of sessions, and this one was no exception!  I love the soft, neutral colors that allow the babies to be the focus of the session, the way we had the most perfect light streaming through the studio windows to illuminate these new parents and their love, and the most peaceful little girls that slept the entire time.

I adore the stunning mama and baby portrait, below.  I recently came across a motherhood quote, and when I read it this photograph immediately came to mind.

"The moment a child is born, the mother is also born.  

She never existed before.  

The woman existed, but the mother, never.  

A mother is something absolutely new."  ~Rajneesh

Love this fun shot of the babies in their daddy's arms!  They won't be that tiny forever, and it's amazing to see and look back on.

The best compliment that you can give a photographer is to have an emotional connection to the portraits that we take and the moments that we capture.  The photo below is the one that brought tears to their mom's eyes during our reveal session.  I just LOVE that a photograph can do that, and I'm truly honored that the photographs I take of your children mean so much.  <3  

And we'll finish with my favorite shot of Finley & Bella, two little twins all snuggled up together.  I love how they just curl up together and mold their limbs together into one tiny little space.  

Check out other newborn twin sessions here, here & here.

Love the clean and organic look of these photographs?  Me too!  View Lucy's clean and simple newborn session.

Extraordinary Stories | Photo sessions for the Down syndrome community

As many of you who have been following my Facebook page know, October is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month.  Down syndrome is considered the most common genetic condition, and one in every 691 babies is born with Down syndrome.  According to the National Down Syndrome Society (www.ndss.org), there are more than 400,000 individuals living with Down syndrome in the United States. This month I started a photo & community outreach project to connect with local families whose children have Down syndrome.  My best friend’s son, Zack, was born with Down Syndrome 5 years ago.  I'll never forget the night my best friend told me that her brand new baby boy had DS.  I'll never forget the incredible journey of love, learning, and acceptance that this little guy's family and all of his loved ones embarked on. I'll always be SO thankful for that blessing. We count ourselves lucky to love this little boy who is blessed with an extra chromosome and lots of hugs and kisses to go around.  Because of Zack, I wanted to give back to this community and bring their stories to life through my photographs.

This month I decided to offer complimentary sessions to families who have a little one with DS.  When I reached out to this (not so little) community, I was amazed at the overwhelming response from families across Massachusetts and New Hampshire who got in touch with me.  My inbox was flooded with the most amazing, heart-warming stories, and every single one brought happy tears.  They opened their arms to me, welcoming me into their lives and sharing their stories with me.  They allowed me to play with their children, capture their true personalities, and let their little ones shine in the spotlight of my camera.  We shared hugs, giggles, tickles, “peek-a-boo” games and “ready, set, go” races.

The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is just that little “extra”.

These children are not defined by Down syndrome.  That extra chromosome is a blessing in disguise, helping the families to love deeper, dream bigger, and advocate more strongly.  Their stories are the ones that deserve to be heard.  Enjoy their stories:

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Meet Audrey  (age 9)

“Audrey is a very funny clever girl who has the most wonderful sense of humor. Her smile can light up a room and she has the most contagious little laugh and the BEST hugs that come with a pat on the back.  Some of her favorite things to do are to sing and dance to her favorite, Taylor Swift. She also loves swimming.  She could literally swing on a swingset for hours. She loves to play with her sisters and is great at bossing her dog, May, around.”   ~Audrey’s mom

“The best part of having a sister like Audrey is the way she brings us and everyone that meets her so much happiness. I like having Audrey as a twin because it makes us unique.”  ~Audrey’s twin sister

Meet Drew  (age 3)

“Drew has the ability to make people fall in love with him, his outgoing personality and endless expressions. His sense of humor, curiosity and attention to detail make me smile and fall in love with him even more, if that's possible. He loves to learn, and run around and will no doubt change the outdated perceptions of what it means to have Down syndrome. I will continue to teach him to know no boundaries, and to dream bigger until he reaches the stars!

My experience in the Ds community has changed my life. Quite literally. We were given information on the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress while in the hospital after Drew was born. And they were the first organization to reach out to us when we got home. From them, we were connected with our local Ds group, the Morning Travelers, where I've met dozens, if not a hundred families, many who are close friends now. When you find a community that understands, encourages and celebrates similar life journeys, you never want to lose touch. I've been empowered to step outside my comfort zone in many ways by Drew, one being taking the Chairperson role for our local MDSC Buddy Walk! I was honored to address over 3,000 people in our community this past October, 11th and applaud all of them for being a strong community of advocates. Together with the help of the MDSC, we are bringing awareness, inclusion and opportunities to live fulfilling lives to individuals with Down syndrome in Massachusetts and across the globe.”  ~Drew’s mom

Meet JJ  (9 months)

JJ is a very social little boy with big, curious eyes that are made that much cuter by his new glasses.  He is incredibly expressive, and we captured so many of his little faces on camera during our session together.  He loves to laugh and babble, and it’s clear that he brings so much happiness to his mom, dad, and big sister every single day.  This little guy is a fighter, and he had heart surgery at only 2 months old. He rocked our session together — even the tummy time, which you wouldn’t know by looking at the amazing photos that he’s not the biggest fan of.  ;o)

I just love how he's talking to his little toy in the photo below.  What a sweetheart!

Meet Lucy (2.5 years)

“Well, let me tell you about Lucy... She's very much "a Lucy". She's bright,  hilarious, loving, and clearly the prettiest girl I've ever seen. She loves cats, music, and Frozen! She's incredibly expressive, she's speaking more lately but has about 100 signs.  Sign language has been amazing for her.  She shines brighter than a diamond, and that's what I would most like to capture.

The definition of the name 'Lucy' is 'light', and that's exactly what she is. When we found out that she had Down Syndrome, I can honestly say I was not scared. I have never feared for how her life would be. She's been through so much in her tiny little life, I have no doubt she can and will achieve whatever it is she wants to do. That extra chromosome is part of who she is and I would not give it back for the world. She is exactly the little girl I always knew she would be.”  ~Lucy’s mom

Meet Maeve  (8 months)

“I found out when I was about 6 months pregnant that there was a 99% chance Maeve would be born with Down syndrome. We found out about her having Down syndrome and the fact that she had a heart defect that would require surgery within a couple of weeks. Needless to say, that was a rough time. But we decided pretty quickly that we would do what we needed to do for her and stayed pretty positive for the rest of my pregnancy so by the time she arrived we were more excited than nervous.

She had open heart surgery when she was about 3 months old. Her first 3 months really just seemed like a lead up to the surgery day. But she did great, she was in and out of Children's in 6 days. And now that it's been months, it almost seems like it never happened. I say a lot that I wish we could go back in time to when we first found out about all of this and tell ourselves "Don't worry. You'll love her like crazy and she'll be awesome."

I guess I'm biased but Maeve really is the best baby. She's happy, super chatty, sleeps well, smiles a lot. Honestly, we don't even think about Down syndrome all the time. She may get to milestones a little later than other kids her age, but for the most part she's just like any other baby. She sleeps, eats, cries, poops, smiles, and makes us laugh every day. She just got her first 2 teeth a couple of weeks ago and in the past week she started sitting up on her own! Something new every day.”  ~Maeve’s mom

Meet Liam  (23 days new)

“We love so many things about Liam. His beautiful eyes, that always appear so alert and attentive when he is awake, are adorned with gorgeous eyelashes. He is happy and content to be held and cuddle when he's not eating. He sometimes shows off an adorable pout that may be hard to say no to when he is older.

The first few days were a mix of a lot of different emotions. Much of Liam's arrival was a surprise. I delivered at a birthing center because we wanted an out of hospital experience. My labor moved at a rapid fire pace and only lasted  4 1/2 hours. My husband travels for work and missed Liam's birth by just 2 hours. When I first held Liam in my arms, I had a feeling he might have Down syndrome, but I didn't want to ask the midwife until my husband arrived. I learned later that the midwife noticed physical characteristics right away but decided to wait until my husband was with me to say anything. I will forever be grateful for these first few hours when I was able to meet my son, hold him, and bond with him before I knew he had Down syndrome. I knew him as Liam first, before I knew he had a disability. He was my perfect, beautiful baby boy who I loved immediately and unconditionally. Learning he had Down syndrome did not change any of this.

When my husband arrived we asked the midwife if she thought he had Down syndrome. She explained that she noticed the palmar crease, low set ears, and large space between his first and second toes. Then we discussed being transferred to the NICU to check his heart and lungs. The NICU was an incredibly hard experience as we didn't even want to be in a hospital in the first place.

We drew strength from taking one moment at a time and the love of our family. Our parents flew out immediately to be with us. They shared in our sorrow, but also rejoiced in Liam's arrival. This was so important for me. As a new mom, I so wanted people to celebrate and gawk over my beautiful new baby. I needed to see people delight in his presence. This helped get us through the 10 days in the NICU.

Right now we are still in the process of letting go of some previous expectations we had before we knew he had Down syndrome.  We are making room for new ideas as we begin the journey with Liam. We are trying not to focus on Liam's limitations but all of his potential and gifts.

When I hold Liam in my arms, I just see my beautiful baby boy who is an absolute gift. Sometimes I think, "oh yeah, he also has Down syndrome." But that's never my first nor most important thought when I hold him. I hope this is always the case. First seeing Liam for the amazing person he is, while learning about and embracing all of his unique qualities including the fact that he has Down syndrome.”  ~Liam’s mom

Want to learn more about Down syndrome?  Check out the National Down Syndrome Society's webpage here:  www.ndss.org

Do you know someone who would love this post?  Share it with them!  :o)

25 families contacted me this month about sessions for their little ones with DS.  I'm excited to make this an ongoing project, and I've compiled a list of families that I will be in touch with for photo sessions throughout the year.  Want to share your story with me?  Email me at nicolestarrphotography@gmail.com.  I can't wait to meet your little one and hear your heartwarming story!

Making New Memories in Vintage Dresses | A Motherhood Session

Arlene is a dear, dear friend of mine.  We've known each other for years -- before marriage & babies & houses & PhDs & photography businesses.  I've loved capturing her little girls on camera, and I always adore the sweet moments we photograph when we get together. Sometimes, you just have to call your friend up to come over, get dolled up, and do a pretty motherhood session in the studio with her daughters.  And that's exactly what we did last Monday morning.

There is so much love bundled into these photographs, and there is such a history of love stories in each one, too!  Arlene's husband is a genealogist and is always sharing stories about their long lines of ancestors.  What I love about these photographs is the history in their outfits.  Arlene is wearing her wedding dress from their celebration in the Dominican Republic.  Little Daniela is wearing the dress that Arlene wore to her own parents' wedding when she was a little girl.  And her big sister, Alice, is wearing the dress she wore last weekend to Arlene's brother's wedding.  So much love, so much history, and so many stories in those sweet white dresses.

Alice & Daniela.

Looking at a photo of the girls from our last session together, I've concluded that this is their signature "sister hug".  Dani looks like she's used to dealing with her big sister's too-tight squeezes, and I just love the expression on her little face!

I've known Alice since she was a teeny-tiny baby in the hospital, welcoming her to the world with a "1st birthday" cake on her first day in our lives.  Watching her grow, and watching Arlene as a mom, has been such a joy.  That's what the heart behind our "Celebrating Motherhood" sessions is all about -- the magic of motherhood, and those gorgeous memories that moms make with their little ones.

Can't you just tell how much Dani loved the camera?  Such a little doll!

A Sparkly Birthday Cake Smash {Maria}

There's something so magical about celebrating your little one's first birthday. I'm not talking about the parties, the decorations, the gifts.  I'm talking about reaching that monumental milestone that marks your first year as a family of three.  365 days of weathering the ups and downs while getting to know who this little baby of yours is.  12 months of parenting success.   Victory.

I love it when families come to me for their baby's first birthday session, and I always make it a point to snap some gorgeous memories of the whole family together.  Think about your little one's first year.  You have a million photos of your baby, a couple of your partner with the baby... and you're not in any of the pictures, right?  Jump in the frame and show your baby that you were there, that you were loving and happy and present.

boston saratoga photographer

boston saratoga photographer

Doesn't Maria have the most amazing sparkling eyes?  I could photograph her sweet & soulful expression all day!  And this little blue romper of hers?  I'm in love with it!  It was the perfect outfit for her one-year session.

boston saratoga photographer

boston saratoga photographer

boston saratoga photographer

boston saratoga photographer

Maria's mom wanted to celebrate her daughter's first year with a little *SPARKLE*.  Of course, I was thrilled about her pink and gold themed cake smash and was so excited to pull together the most gorgeous set up for her baby girl.  Sparkle and NSP go hand in hand, as you well know.  ;o)  Enjoy a few of my favorites from her sparkly cake smash session!

WM pink gold birthday cake smash set up

boston saratoga photographer

boston saratoga photographer

boston saratoga photographer

boston saratoga photographer

This little miss LOVED clapping her hands together, and I'm pretty certain that half of the photos from her session have her cheering herself on and looking to us to continue the applause.  Such a little cutie!

boston saratoga photographer

boston saratoga photographer

Happy Birthday, Miss Maria!  And congratulations to her amazing parents on their first victorious year as a family of three.

Did you love Maria's girly-girl session?  Check out another sparkly cake smash photo shoot here!

Want to learn more about our birthday sessions?  Read about our first year & cake smash sessions.

WM pink gold birthday cake

A Vintage Baby Boy's Milestone Session | Saratoga Springs Baby Photographer

Lately we have been all about the BABIES here at the Nicole Starr Photography studio.  Newborns, 6 month olds, milestone sessions, birthday babes with their cake smash sessions...  With more newborns arriving each week (3 little girls were born in the last two weeks who will be making their grand debut here very soon!), I love watching these little ones grow when they come in for their Simply Baby sessions. Vincent came in for his Simply Baby session, and we did a few Tushies & Toes photographs before moving on to a more vintage look for his portraits.  This was so much fun to pull together his different set ups, all with a clean and classic look to them.  There's nothing more classic than bare baby skin, tiny toes, and a creamy backdrop.

Did you notice the skull & crossbones on his Honest company diaper?  Too cute!

Showing off the many styles of baby Vinny, we took some adorable vintage photos of this little guy.  I have had this antique rotary phone for years, and I was thrilled to finally use it in a photo shoot.  How perfect is his newsboy cap and overalls?

WM baby phone-1

And finally we captured this little cutie with a more coastal and nautical look, since his grammy lives in a coastal town.  I just love the straw hat, weathered wood, and his cute little expressions.

Did you love Vincent's session?  Click here to see Vivian's adorable Simply Baby session for more smiles, dimples, and overall baby cuteness!

Vivian's Pink & Floral Simply Baby Session

baby girl pink and flowers

Not all babies are as smiley as sweet little Vivi.  Sometimes, photographers luck out with the happiest of babies that love being in front of the camera.  (And sometimes we need to use a few of these tricks for a successful portrait session.)  She came to the studio and that smile didn't leave her face for even one minute.  Her eyes were sparkling, she was playful, and she loved the attention that her mother and I showered on her.  This little girl is such a model, and I had so much fun capturing her personality on camera during our pink and floral Simply Baby session.

baby playing peekaboo with a blanket

Peek-a-boo!  This is one of my favorite games for babies 5 months and up.  Tummy time & smiles.

nicole starr photography

After a quick little outfit change, Vivian was ready to snuggle up with her lovies.  I love it when parents bring the baby's favorite blanket or stuffed animal to our session, and it's always so sweet to capture them together.  That blanket will one day be worn and gray, but you'll remember how much your little one carried it around, how you had to have a back-up at day care, at home, and at the grandparents' house, and how she never fell asleep without it.  You'll remember how she was the same size as her little pink bear, and how that bunny brought the biggest smile to her face every single time.

baby with stuffed animal lovies

baby girl in a basket

smiling baby girl

Powerful Love: A beautiful in-home session with newborn twins

Lifestyle photography.

It's exactly what it sounds like.  A private glimpse into your life to capture those moments that happen behind closed doors.  Sometimes those moments are loud and colorful, and sometimes those moments are quiet and calm.  These are moments that are shared with your family.  They shape you and your loved ones, and they are the ones that you'll remember many years from now as some of the happiest and most fulfilling moments of your life.

A cuddle with your newborn baby.

A quiet glance over to your husband, admiring him in this new role as a father.

Reaching down to stroke the soft wisps of hair atop your baby's head.

Sitting back, looking around, and falling in love with this life you've created together.

Kati & Pete dreamed of their babies' arrival for many, many months.  They prepared a beautiful space to welcome their newborn twins home with the most thoughtful touches -- a rustic wooden wall, sweet and simple quotes, pictures from their favorite children's book, photos from their travels around the world, the cutest little elephants, and an adorable handmade mobile.  Their twin sons were born on July 21, 2015.  After spending a little extra time with the doctors and nurses, both boys finally arrived home and they were welcomed with so much love.

One of my favorite experiences of being a newborn photographer is capturing the way that new parents look at their babies.  It's a mix of awe, wonder, and overwhelming love.  It truly is the most incredible moment to capture on camera.

Birth.  Nailed it.  (Cutest onesies ever!)

boston twin photographer

Max & Owen were the sweetest little boys, and being exactly one month old (our session was held on their original due date), they were wide-eyed and wanted to take in everything going on around them.

Is there anything cuter than a little baby yawn?  No, I didn't think so either...

One of the meaningful benefits of a lifestyle newborn session in your home is that it allows us to showcase your family, your love, your personality, and YOUR HOME.  That gorgeous space you've created together that tells your story becomes a living and breathing part of your photos, and it is pure magic.  I absolutely adored this gallery wall in Kati & Pete's home, and the moment I saw it I knew we needed to use it as a backdrop for their family photos.  This wall tells their story, and now their sons will find a spot right there among all of their other memories and loved ones.

Congratulations, Kati & Pete!

What a beautiful family and a beautiful life you are creating for yourselves.

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Are you eagerly anticipating your little one's arrival?  Send me an email by clicking on the "Contact" tab and I'd love to chat with you to plan your baby's newborn session.  We'll talk and discover if a studio session or an in-home lifestyle session is the best fit for your family.

Read more about our newborn sessions here.