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.

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baby & child

Maternity

Gorgeous Leesburg Virginia Boudoir Maternity Photography

This gorgeous Virginia boudoir maternity photography session is one for the books. Today, I am thrilled to take you through an extraordinarily beautiful boudoir maternity photography session that unfolded in the charming town of Leesburg, Virginia. This particular session is not just another one to add to my portfolio, but it’s one that I hold […]

Advice, Newborn

Why You Should Schedule Your Northern Virginia Newborn Photoshoot Before Baby is Born

Alright, mamas, let’s talk about when you should schedule your Northern Virginia newborn photoshoot session! I know this may seem like a self-explanatory topic, but you’d be surprised how common it is for new moms to try and book a session with me a few days after they’ve already had the baby. Now, I understand […]

Newborn

4 Best Newborn Photo Poses To Capture: Newborn Photographer In D.C.

As one of the top newborn photographers in D.C., I would love to chat about the best newborn photo poses that I like to use during my in-home newborn photography sessions. Not only does this help you know what to expect on the day of your photoshoot, but it helps you to feel comfortable with […]

Advice, Maternity

Do I Need A Maternity Shoot In Northern Virginia?

Planning a maternity shoot in Northern Virginia is an amazing way to document the exciting journey of motherhood. Pregnancy is such a special and amazing time in a woman’s life. There are so many changes happening, both physically and emotionally. While it may feel like pregnancy goes on forever, it’s really such a brief period of […]

Advice

5 Breastfeeding Tips for New Moms in 2023

Breastfeeding is a wonderful experience for both mother and baby. It’s a natural way to provide your newborn with the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. While nursing is a natural process, it can also be difficult for new moms. As a mama myself, I wanted to make this week’s post a bit more […]

Advice, Newborn

How To Prepare For Your In Home Newborn Photography Session

Here is your guide on preparing for your in home newborn photography session in Northern Virginia. These precious moments with your newborn are fleeting, and capturing them in photos is a beautiful way to preserve these memories. Whether you’re a first-time parent or adding another little one to your family, a newborn photography session can […]

Newborn, Advice

3 Reasons Why Moms Prefer In Home Newborn Photography

Have you heard of in home newborn photography? Whether this is your first child or your fifth, capturing your little one as a newborn is something that every mama lives for! Having the ability to forever look back on your child when they first entered the world is an amazing gift. However, trying to transport […]

Maternity

The 8 Best Old Town Alexandria Maternity Photoshoot Locations

Finding the right location for a maternity photo shoot can be challenging, especially in the Northern Virginia area. There are so many beautiful locations to choose from, but one that stands out above the rest is Old Town Alexandria. This Old Town Alexandria maternity photoshoot was an absolute delight to capture.  In this article, I’ll […]

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Serving families in Northern Virginia, Maryland, & Washington, D.C.