welcome to

the SHP blog

Hi! I’m Stephanie, a mama, a born and raised German girl, and a sentimental, full-service photographer who captures timeless images for families looking to remember the little moments. I am so grateful that you are here!

Take a look at my latest blog posts to see recent work from beautiful studio & lifestyle newborn sessions and maternity portraits, along with helpful tips for families in the DC and Northern VA areas.
From session planning to making the most of your time in front of the camera, I share advice designed to make your experience enjoyable and stress-free.

Welcome!

family

maternity

newborn

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baby & child

Advice, Baby & Child, Newborn

5 Top Lactation Consultants in Northern Virginia

Looking for the top lactation consultants in Northern Virginia? One of the biggest hurdles I experienced as a new mom was figuring out breastfeeding. I remember holding my daughter and thinking, “How do people make this look so easy in all those videos?” Spoiler alert: It wasn’t easy. Despite all the books, blogs, and advice […]

Advice, Maternity

7 Must-Know Benefits of an In-Studio Maternity Photoshoot in D.C.

Are you curious about the must-know benefits of an in-studio maternity photoshoot in D.C.? Hi there, mama! I know firsthand how beautiful (and exhausting!) pregnancy can be. Having been in your shoes, I also know how much you’ll want to remember this special time once your little one is here. That’s why I’m so passionate […]

Baby & Child, Newborn

The First Year Collective – A Gift to Your Baby’s Legacy

Your baby’s first year is a beautiful whirlwind of precious moments and a First Year Collective ensures you can cherish and relive every milestone through timeless photography. I still remember holding my baby girl in my arms, feeling the incredible mix of awe, love, and exhaustion. Time felt like it stood still, yet it passed […]

Advice, Newborn

Studio Or In-Home Newborn Sessions? Finding The Perfect Fit For You!

Are you torn between studio or in-home newborn sessions? Hi there, mama! First of all, I’m so glad you’re here. Whether you stumbled across this space while searching for a photographer or you’re a longtime supporter of Stephanie Honikel Photography (SHP), welcome! I know how special these moments are for you and your growing family, […]

Advice, Newborn

How Much Does Newborn Photography Cost?

How much does newborn photography cost? Welcoming a newborn into your family is one of life’s most profound moments, and preserving those first cuddles, yawns, and sleepy gazes is priceless. If you’re in the DMV area looking into newborn photography, you might be wondering, how much does it cost? The short answer is—it depends. The […]

Advice, Maternity

Snowy Pregnancy Announcement Session in Leesburg, Virginia

I absolutely loved this snowy pregnancy announcement session in Leesburg, Virginia! Northern Virginia doesn’t see much snow, but when it does arrive, it transforms the landscape into a magical wonderland. This rare snowfall became the perfect backdrop for Aparna’s pregnancy announcement session just a few days ago. It felt like nature collaborated with us to […]

Advice, Newborn

Essential Hospital Bag Checklist For Moms in the DMV in 2025

Congratulations, mama-to-be! As the big day approaches, it’s time to pack your hospital bag. As your Northern Virginia newborn photographer, I have created an essential hospital bag checklist to help you prepare for your baby’s arrival in the DMV. Happy packing! When Should You Pack? Aim to have your hospital bag packed by week 36 of your […]

Family

8 Fun & Easy Family Friendly Activities For New Year’s Day 2025

Are you looking for some family friendly activities for New Year’s Day 2025? The New Year is a magical time to reset, reflect, and celebrate with those you love most. Instead of sticking to the traditional TV countdown, why not make 2025 extra special with activities that the whole family can enjoy? As a mom […]

Family, Newborn

10 New Year’s Resolutions for Busy Moms You Must Try

Are you looking for realistic New Year’s resolutions for busy moms? The new year often feels like a fresh start—a time to reflect, plan, and dream. But for busy moms, setting resolutions can feel overwhelming, especially when your life is focused on taking care of everyone else. This year, it’s time to flip the script. […]

Resolutions for Busy Moms

Advice, Newborn

7 Tips On How To Survive (And Enjoy) The Holidays As A New Mom

Trying to survive and enjoy the holidays as a new mom can seem challenging, but it’s 100% possible. As a mom myself and a Northern Virginia newborn photographer, it’s safe to say that I know a thing or two about juggling the craziness of new motherhood and the holiday season. To help you prepare for […]

a newborn baby posed on a white blanket with her feet touching her elbows
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Serving families in Northern Virginia, Maryland, & Washington, D.C.