There’s something incredibly special about photographing a family year after year, and this Morven Park maternity session in Leesburg Virginia was a beautiful reminder of that.
The Robinson family has trusted me to capture some of their most meaningful milestones since their oldest son’s first birthday, and it has been such a joy to watch their family grow. When I reached out to schedule their youngest son’s first birthday session—the final chapter of their First Year Collective experience—I received the sweetest surprise: they were expecting another baby boy!
With a due date quickly approaching, we decided to fit in a maternity session before welcoming their newest little one, and Morven Park in Leesburg, Virginia provided the perfect backdrop.

Table of Contents
ToggleMid-April is a beautiful time of year for outdoor portraits in Northern Virginia. The weather is mild, the trees are beginning to come alive again, and the soft spring light creates a beautiful, timeless feel.
Morven Park offers a little bit of everything—historic architecture, open green spaces, and elegant pathways that photograph beautifully throughout every season. The iconic white mansion creates a classic backdrop that feels sophisticated without overwhelming the family at the center of the images.
For growing families, it also provides plenty of room for little ones to move, explore, and simply be themselves.


One of my favorite parts of this Leesburg maternity session actually happened before we even arrived at Morven Park.
As part of her maternity photography experience, mom was treated to professional hair and makeup before we met at the venue. It’s one of my favorite ways to help mothers feel pampered and cared for during a season when they’re usually busy taking care of everyone else. By the time she arrived, she felt relaxed, confident, and ready to simply enjoy the evening with her family.
After mom’s hair and makeup appointment, dad arrived with the boys. As they prepare to welcome another baby boy, it was such a joy to capture the anticipation, connection, and love that already surrounds their newest little one.
Mom chose a beautiful soft pink maternity dress that complemented the spring setting perfectly, while dad and the boys coordinated in light neutral tones that kept the focus on their connection as a family.
Not sure what to wear, check out this helpful guide on what to wear for maternity photos.


One of the things I love most about maternity sessions with toddlers and young children is that they rarely go exactly as planned and that’s often where the magic happens.
Rather than expecting little ones to stand perfectly still and smile on command, I focus on capturing genuine connection. Holding hands, snuggling close, giving mom’s belly a hug, or simply walking together often creates the images families treasure most years later.
Watching these two boys interact with their parents was a beautiful reminder that this season is about more than just preparing for a new baby. It’s about celebrating who they are right now before life changes again.



One of the greatest privileges of my job is being invited back again and again to document a family’s journey.
From first birthdays to milestone sessions, maternity portraits, and soon a newborn session, I’ve had the honor of preserving memories that tell the story of this family’s growth over the years.
I cannot wait to meet their newest little boy and begin documenting this next chapter.
For now, these images serve as a beautiful reminder of the anticipation, excitement, and love that fills the months before a new baby arrives.
If you’re expecting and looking for a stress-free maternity photography experience, I’d love to help. From wardrobe planning and professional hair and makeup to location selection and custom artwork for your home, every detail is thoughtfully taken care of so you can focus on enjoying this season with your family.
Whether you choose Morven Park, your home, or another favorite Northern Virginia location, my goal is to create timeless images that tell your family’s story and become cherished heirlooms for generations to come.
When is the best time to schedule my maternity session?
The ideal time is between 28–34 weeks of pregnancy, when your baby bump is beautifully visible and you’re typically still comfortable moving around. Learn more about when to schedule your Leesburg maternity photography session.
Why choose Morven Park for a maternity session?
Morven Park offers a stunning variety of backdrops, including the historic mansion, formal boxwood gardens, wrought-iron gates, reflecting pool, rolling fields, mature trees, and equestrian landscapes—all within one location. This variety creates a timeless, elegant gallery without needing to travel between locations.
Do I need a photography permit at Morven Park?
Yes. Professional photography sessions at Morven Park require advance registration. During park hours, photographers must obtain a free permit, and all sessions must be scheduled according to Morven Park’s photography guidelines. For photography before the park opens or after it closes, photographers must purchase an after-hours permit. The current fee is $100 per session.
What should I wear?
Flowy dresses, fitted gowns that highlight your bump, soft neutrals, and earthy tones photograph beautifully at Morven Park. I’m happy to help you choose outfits that complement the season and location.
Stephanie Honikel is a distinguished DC & Northern Virginia newborn photographer, specializing in maternity, baby, and family photography. With a keen eye for capturing timeless moments, she has been recognized as one of the Best Maternity Photographers in DC for 2024 and Best Newborn Photographers in Alexandria, VA in 2024. Stephanie’s work emphasizes safety and emotional connection, ensuring a comfortable and relaxed session experience. She offers a full-service approach, including professional hair and makeup, wardrobe options, and custom artwork. Reach out today to book your session!
You first - join the newsletter!
©2015-2024 Stephanie Honikel Photography | Northern Virginia Newborn Photographer | Privacy Policy | Brand & Website by Lyra Studios |
Stephanie Honikel
info@honikelphotography.com
703-999-0592
