Hello from your Chicago based photographer!
So glad you stopped by to visit my little corner of the internet! I’m Natalie Starks and I’m the owner of Natalie Maria Photography. I have been an artist my whole life, and a professional photographer for 14 years. I love that I get to provide the families I photograph memories that they will cherish forever.
My sessions take place at your home or on location at one of the many beautiful spots throughout the Chicagoland area. The booking process is simple, my sessions are laid back, and receiving your images is quick and effortless.
Thank you for being here!
“We’ve worked with Natalie several times, from our engagement photos to our son’s newborn photos and throughout our son’s first few years. After every shoot, we instantly fall in love with everything she captured and were so glad to have all of the memories. I love that she is more lifestyle-like because it makes the photos less staged and captures the true essence of the moment. Our only problem is we’ve run out of wall space for all the beautiful pictures she’s taken over the years! Natalie is professional and amazing with kids, making each session both easy and so much fun. We can’t wait for more photos and memories for years to come, thank you Natalie!”
Portfolio
View My Photography
My family photo sessions aim to capture your family as authentically as possible…from love and joy, to moodiness and messiness…and everything in between. My goal is to invoke emotion through photographs.
My newborn photo sessions are baby-led. I don’t force babies to sleep or wake them up, and I’ll never pose them in an unsafe or awkward position. No space heaters, crazy props, or silly outfits. Your baby is perfect as is.
My maternity photo sessions are a beautiful way to celebrate your pregnancy and everything your amazing body has accomplished. These photographs commemorate the fleeting time before your little one arrives.
“Natalie has taken our photos since our second of three children were born - she’s been there for newborn, for holidays and just when something fun was happening (like a party for a 1st and 70th birthday at the same time). Her work is fantastic, and she is infinitely patient with the kids. Natalie is easy to communicate with, she turns her work around quickly, and works can both offer you ideas and guidance if you need them (I often do), or make sure you get what you are hoping for out of the photos. I would definitely recommend hiring her - you will be happy you did!”
Sessions
What To Expect From Your Photo Shoot
My family photography sessions take place at your home or on location.
My style is not posed, and I don't use props...I'm a firm believer that all you need for amazing family portraits is a family and some natural light. My goal is to capture genuine poses and expressions that really show the connection between you and your family.
I am passionate about creating art through photography by capturing real moments between you and your family.
My photo sessions are laid-back and fun! I don’t want you to worry about posing…you and your beautiful family are perfect as you are. I want to capture your true personality and show the love you all have for each other in my photographs.
There's no need to practice smiling…a natural expression is always more beautiful than awkward posed smiles. While I don't mind grabbing a couple of posed shots, the majority of your photos will look more natural. Sometimes it's the serious or curious looks on kids’ faces that really capture more of their personality, and those usually end up being favorites of the families I photograph.
I love capturing moments and creating memories for the families I work with. I can't wait to do the same for you!
All-Inclusive Photography Packages
I know you live a busy life and I don’t want you to be spending hours deciding what to order from your session. So I make it easy with my all-inclusive packages.
Here is what’s included:
The on-location session, which is usually about an hour.
The high-resolution, archivable digital images from your entire gallery in both color and black and white.
An online gallery for one month to share with friends and family.
You will also receive a gorgeous, high-quality complimentary 8x10 album from your session. Leave the design to me!
I have photographs from all over the world that available to print. They are professionally printed on your choice of 8x10, 11x14, or 16x20 archivable paper.
My passion for travel and travel photography started in 2005 during an Art History study abroad trip to Florence Italy. A few weeks before my program started, I spent time with family members traveling through Italy, and visiting London and Paris. I fell in love with Europe instantly. I loved the culture, people, history, art, food, and long overnight train rides from country to country.
Since that trip, I’ve been back to Europe a few times. I’ve even lived in Barcelona Spain. I’ve been to China, Indonesia, and Morocco. All in all, 16 countries… so far.
Travel is constantly on my mind and I’m always looking forward to my next trip!
Find me on Instagram!
