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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Advice, Family

The Top 5 Best Daycares In Washington D.C.

Are you looking for the top 5 best daycares in Washington D.C.? Finding the right daycare for your child is one of the most crucial decisions you will make as a parent. The quality of early childcare can significantly impact your child’s development, happiness, and future success. In Washington D.C., parents are fortunate to have […]

Advice, Maternity

Where Can I Find the Best Ultrasound Clinic in Northern Virginia?

Are you looking for the best ultrasound clinic in Northern Virginia? If you find out you’re expecting a baby in Northern Virginia, congratulations! One of the first things you’ll need to do is find a reliable and high-quality ultrasound imaging facility. Ultrasounds are an essential part of prenatal care and can help monitor your baby’s […]

Family, Newborn

9 Tips to Navigate the Stress of Motherhood

Are you feeling the stress of Motherhood? Motherhood is a huge game-changer, completely turning life as you know it on its head. It’s packed with those awesome moments of joy and amazement, but let’s be real, it can be super tough too, pushing you to the edge of what you thought you could handle.  Getting a grip on the […]

Advice, Maternity

The 5 Best Prenatal Yoga Classes in D.C. In 2024

Prenatal yoga classes in D.C. are a great way for expectant mothers to maintain their physical and mental health during pregnancy. These classes offer a safe and supportive environment for women to connect with their bodies, their growing babies, and other mothers-to-be. They provide a sanctuary for expectant mothers, offering them a way to maintain […]

Advice, Family

6 Fun Things To Do On Mother’s Day in D.C. 2024

Are you looking for fun things to do on Mother’s Day In D.C.? Mother’s Day is a special occasion that calls for an equally special celebration. Washington, D.C., with its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful landscapes, offers many activities to make this day memorable for all the incredible moms out there.  From historic house […]

Advice, Newborn

7 Ways To Feel Your Best In Newborn Photos In Northern Virginia

Wondering how to feel your best in Newborn Photos in Northern Virginia? Welcoming a new baby into the world is a momentous occasion, one that many parents wish to capture through photography.  It’s common for new parents to feel a bit anxious about how they will look and feel in these photographs. The good news […]

Northern Virginia Newborn Photographer

Advice, Newborn

6 Tips To Keep Toddlers Focused During Your Newborn Session In Washington DC

Are you worried about keeping your toddlers focused during your newborn session in Washington DC? Welcoming a new life into the world is a marvel in itself, but capturing those early moments through professional photography can be both a treasured investment and a stressful experience for parents.  With my years of experience as a newborn […]

Advice, Maternity

6 Fun Ways to Announce Your Pregnancy in D.C.

Are you looking for fun ways to announce your pregnancy in D.C.? Announcing your pregnancy is one of life’s most exciting moments. It marks the beginning of a new chapter and is an event full of joy and anticipation. As a maternity photographer in Washington, D.C., I have seen how there are endless creative ways to […]

Advice, Maternity

7 Absolutely Necessary Breastfeeding Essentials Checklist

Ready for a can’t live without breastfeeding essentials checklist? Breastfeeding is a natural and beautiful way to bond with your baby, but it can also be a challenging endeavor. From finding the right positions to ensuring a proper latch, the first few weeks can feel like an uphill battle. However, with the right tools at […]

Advice, Maternity

Breaking Down Pregnancy Brain: 5 Ways To Reduce It

Is pregnancy brain real? Pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative experience for many women, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. One such challenge that has been widely discussed is the phenomenon known as “pregnancy brain.” This term refers to the cognitive changes that some pregnant women experience, including forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, […]

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