Name: Shanyn Nicole Photography
Address: 925 S Gilbert Rd Suite 207, Mesa, AZ, 85204, United States
Telephone: +1-480-231-9880
Price range: Call For Pricing

Phoenix Cowboy inspired maternity session

Yeehaw! This Phoenix cowboy maternity inspiration is perfect for those rodeo mamas. I’ve said it once – and I’ll say it again. Maternity sessions are for you. Whether you’re into gowns, jeans, suits, or all nude. Let’s dive into what a Phoenix maternity session can be like. Amanda came in wanting NO dresses at all!

Cowboy outfits for maternity session in Phoenix

If you’re the queen of the rodeo, you’re likely not going to feel comfortable in a dress. Nonetheless a giant, fluffy, ruffly dress. And that is okay – actually, it’s more than okay. Every style type is represented in my maternity studio. Let’s take a look at this amazing jean on jean look!

This Phoenix cowboy maternity inspiration really knocked my socks off. I knew Amanda was coming in with some really amazing ideas. But Amanda pulled it off better than I ever could’ve dreamed! This is why it is so important to me that you wear outfits that are you for your Phoenix maternity session. This session inspired us to add a cowboy hat to our maternity client closet.

Bold maternity session looks in Phoenix

If you want to be bold for your maternity session – but your heart doesn’t skip a beat for Dolly Parton, don’t fret my friend! Let’s talk about suits for your maternity session. We have a black suit, tan suit, and white suit in our studio. These suits are SO powerful to me! I really love watching mamas come to life when they put on a suit. I see you feel powerful, bold, and I love every minute of it.

If you’re looking to book a bold look for your maternity session – it’s best to book a phoenix maternity session early in your second trimester. I always recommend shooting your maternity session when you are 28-33 weeks along. I’ve found in my 14 years of being a professional maternity photographer in Phoenix that this is the sweet spot. This is when you have a cute belly, you have some energy (some being the keyword), and you are (hopefully) not too swollen yet!

Maternity

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Phoenix Quinceañera portrait photography
Phoenix Quinceañera portrait photography is new to Shanyn Nicole. In fact, this is our very first quince portrait session. And we got to capture it at the beautiful Ashley Castle in Chandler, Arizona.

While we will absolutely capture more phoenix Quinceañera Portrait Photography, we have no plans to bring back event photography – we absolutely loved capturing this beautiful 15th birthday photoshoot. If you have never heard of this tradition, let me share some information with you! Widely celebrated among Latinos, the quinceañera marks an important milestone in a girl’s life. Part birthday party, part rite of passage. You can learn more about this tradition in the New York Times.

Cost of Quinceañera photography in Phoenix.

When planning a quinceanera, the cost can add up quick. These events can rival the cost of some weddings. Knowing where to budget is most important. When trying to determine the cost for Phoenix Quinceañera Portrait Photography, here are some things to take into account.
1. Venue. Where do you want to take your Phoenix Quinceañera Portraits? Venues like Ashley Castle are so popular, but they do have a venue rental fee on top of your photography package price.
2. Quality of photos. At the end of the event, the cake is eaten. The flowers die. The dress gets tucked away or sold. The only thing you’ll have left to remember are your photos. This is absolutely an area I would not skimp on. A portrait experience is a moment that you will cherish forever. Our quince portrait packages fall under our family session pricing.
3. Hair and makeup for your Phoenix Quinceañera Portrait Photography. Looking good means feeling good. If you don’t have a hair and makeup team you love. Don’t fret! I have a pocket full of amazing artists who can glam you up for your Phoenix Quinceañera Portrait Photography experience.
When to book Quinceañera portraits in Phoenix?

I recommend booking your Quinceañera portraits 4-6 weeks prior to your event if you are wanting to print images for the event. If you are wanting to use them for invitations, I recommend 8-12 weeks prior to your Quinceañera. Ready to book your Quinceañera portraits? Let’s chat!
Families

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Maternity Portrait Studio in Phoenix

14 years as a Phoenix maternity photographer and I can never get enough. It’s amazing to think about how the phoenix maternity portrait world has changed since I started my photography career. It used to be that a Phoenix maternity photographer was something you’d find in a mall, or big box portrait studio. Now your maternity portraits consist of a high end, luxury experience. Not only will you have a good time, but so will your kids and partner! Everyone knows that dads don’t usually like taking pictures and over the last 14 years, I have mastered that too.

In the spring of 2025 we opened a brand new maternity portrait studio in Phoenix. Our new studio is 2,200SQFT. Includes a brand new parent and sibling waiting area, with TV and toys! A coffee and snack bar. As well as a client closet (bigger than my living room!) with over 100 dresses! You never have to worry about bringing anything to your session – we truly have it all for our mamas. If you want to see more, learn more, and book your maternity portraits. Let’s chat! Most moms book their maternity portraits when they are in their second trimester for 28-33 weeks gestation.

Maternity portrait studio in Phoenix

The wet look maternity dress is one of our clients most favorite dresses. This can be worn wet or dry!

This is great for a mom who wants to show off her baby pump. Your maternity portraits are a time for you to express your style, no one else’s!! If the wet look isn’t for you, we have so many other options. Including this beautiful blue gown. Honestly, another client favorite! This gown is beautiful on a classic solid color backdrop as well as our signature blue textured backdrop. As a Phoenix maternity photographer – my goal from day 1 has been to provide a wide variety of looks to fit your maternity style.

What’s the best time to book your maternity portraits?

The majority of moms book their maternity portraits early in their second trimester. I recommend shooting your maternity portraits when you are 28-32 weeks along. This does not mean we cannot shoot them later. I only recommend this time frame as moms are typically most comfortable. Additionally, you always run the risk of early delivery when you get to 34,35, or 36 weeks. There have been some moms who end up delivering early and miss their portraits – I don’t want that to happen to any of you!

Maternity and newborn bundle packages in Phoenix.

Yes! If you’re wanting to book a newborn session in Phoenix, I offer bundle packages for those two together. In addition, I also offer a maternity, fresh 48, and newborn package. As well as a babies first year package. This is the best way to save some money when booking your sessions.

Maternity

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Creekside Estates Senior Session

I absolutely loved this Creekside Estates senior session. I am so grateful to be a Phoenix senior session photographer. Watching your babies turn into young adults is the best thing. I recently had the opportunity to shoot at this beautiful estate. An amazing location for your phoenix senior session.

There’s something incredibly special about senior sessions — a moment frozen in time just before life’s next big adventure begins. As a senior session photographer in Phoenix, I have the incredible privilege of capturing that unique season where confidence, excitement, and bittersweet goodbyes all blend into one.

Phoenix provides the perfect backdrop for senior photos. From the glowing desert landscapes to the vibrant city streets and hidden gardens, there’s no shortage of beautiful, sun-soaked locations that highlight each senior’s individuality. Every session is a new opportunity to showcase a young adult’s personality, style, and dreams, against the stunning Arizona scenery.

Phoenix’s Best Senior Photographer

What I love most about photographing seniors is the energy they bring. Each session is full of laughter, creativity, and genuine emotion. Seniors are stepping into adulthood, filled with hope and ambition, and my job is to tell their story in a way that feels authentic and timeless.

As a photographer, I focus on creating a comfortable, encouraging environment so seniors can be themselves in front of the camera. Whether they’re shy or outgoing, we work together to create a gallery that feels true to who they are at this moment in life.

In Phoenix, the natural golden light is our secret weapon, giving every photo a warm, glowing finish that feels both modern and timeless. Whether we’re shooting downtown, in the desert, or somewhere tucked away, my goal is always the same: to make each senior feel celebrated, confident, and seen.

Senior year is a once-in-a-lifetime milestone. Being able to capture it for so many amazing young people in Phoenix is not just my career — it’s a true honor.

Seniors

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Sunset family photographer in Mesa

These moments are what make me so happy to be a sunset family photographer in Mesa, Arizona. I love, love, love a classic portrait. Where you all sit and smile at the camera. But more than anything, I want to capture the way you cuddle your baby. Dance with your daughter. Kiss your spouse. And honestly capture the chaos that is your family. For better or for worse. Sunset family photography can be stressful, as a mother of 5, I know that very well first hand. My oldest is basically an adult now with my baby being only a year. I can tell you that the photos I have of the scrunched faces, silly dances, and tiny hands in mine are my favorite ones of my littles. And that’s the gift I want to give to you as your family photographer.

The best places to take sunset family photographs in Mesa.

This is one I get asked all the time. I have been a sunset family photographer in Mesa for 14 years. This means I know all the best spots. This beautiful location in in East Mesa at the Salt River. The mountain views are to die for paired with the gorgeous saguaro cactus’. Spring and fall are my favorite times of year here. When the sun aligns just perfectly over the mountain behind this tall saguaro cactus. It leaves for some breathtaking family photos. The salt river is not the only beautiful place to take family photos in Mesa. Lost dutchman, Usery, and Waters Users are some of my other favorite spots for your family sessions.

When is the best time of year to take family photos in Mesa?

Personally, I am a fan of spring time for sunset family photos in Mesa. Specially if we have had a wet winter. Things are blooming and looking lush. I find that in October and November you still run the risk of it potentially being warm. That means the traditional fall clothes that are popular for family photos will be really warm and you may be uncomfortable. Fall ends ups being a super busy time for photographers. So I always recommend popping into spring to catch a session for updated family photos. If you’re looking for Christmas card pictures – a Christmas mini session would be great for you! The calendar books about 4-6 months in advance. Meaning if you’re looking for a session in fall or spring, it’s never to early to book your family session!

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Families

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Mesa Newborn Photography Studio

Motherhood is a beautiful place to be. In my Mesa newborn photography studio – mothers are my biggest clientele. Expecting mothers, new mothers, seasoned mothers. This beautiful boy belonged to a first time mama. His mom is a gem and also came to the studio for her maternity pictures. I’ve said it once and I’ll say it a million times. I love a one time client, of course, but there is something special about getting repeat clients in my Mesa newborn photography studio.

In the years that I’ve spent becoming a top newborn photographer in Mesa, I’ve found the best props for your newborn sessions. If you’re a newborn photographer – check out my newborn prop shop for the very best under wraps you can find! They help to achieve this beautiful round look for when baby is swaddled. I use a handful of wraps under the top wrap so that baby stays secure during your newborn session. That way once I get the baby to sleep, I don’t have to wake them up to re-wrap them!

You want the best Mesa newborn photography studio for your baby

Every parent wants the best for their newborn. That is why you’re researching and finding the best newborn photographer for your baby. You are here because you value safety and comfort for your baby during their newborn pictures. I created Shanyn Nicole Studios to be able to give parents just that. The best newborn session for their precious, perfect, and delicate baby. My Mesa Newborn Photography Studio is designed to make this a memorable experience while being a comfortable one too.

Not only is your babies comfort a priority for our studio, so is the rest of your families comfort. You will find a lounge area that is filled with snacks, drinks, toys for siblings, a bottle warmer, boppy for nursing, and more. Our Mesa Newborn Photography Studio provides not only delicious snacks, but dye free snacks for your family. We have a variety of drinks, including teas, soft drinks, water, and more.

The best time to book your newborn session

The majority of moms book with Shanyn Nicole Studios in their second trimester. We only offer 10 newborn sessions per moth and accept 2-3 due dates per week. Newborn sessions are pre-booked. This means you will book your newborn session prior to your baby being born. Once you reach out, we will send you a booking proposal. Then we will start planning your newborn session! If you’re ready to book your newborn session, just send us an email and we will get you set up!

Newborns

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Mesa Maternity Photography Studio
In 2018 I opened my Mesa maternity photography studio. Truly, I had no idea what I was doing. I worked really, really hard over the last 7 years to become the best maternity photographer in Arizona. It’s taken a lot of sacrifice and dedication but here I am. And I am so excited to have you on this journey with me. My mesa maternity photography studio is stocked with everything you need for your maternity session. I’ve spent the last 14 years finding the best maternity dresses, newborn photography props, and techniques to provide you with the best maternity photoshoot I can.

In this blog post I will be going over the ways I put together your maternity photoshoot in my Mesa studio.

What to bring to my maternity photography studio session?

Truthfully, you do not have to bring anything to your session in my Mesa maternity photography studio. From strapless bras, CAKES, seamless underwear (yours to keep), dresses, body suits and more. We have it all. However if you want to use your own items here is what I recommend bringing.
1. A skin toned strapless bra that fits. I want to make sure that this bra fits you well. That its not too snug (we all know pregnancy has some perks!)
2. Skin toned SEAMLESS UNDERWEAR. Skims is honestly my favorite brand, though a little pricey!
3. If you’re not having your makeup done by our in house artist, bring along a few makeup essentials for touch-ups, such as lipstick, powder, and mascara. Natural looks often work best, but feel free to enhance your features as you prefer. Between eating, drinking, and laughing. You’ll want to touch up your lips during your maternity photo session!
4. Jewelry! Statement necklaces or delicate bracelets can enhance your outfit without overwhelming it. Choose pieces that reflect your personal style.
Maternity and newborn bundles

Being a Mesa maternity photography studio doesn’t mean I only photography maternity. I specialize in everything to grow with your family! That means when you have that sweet baby – you can bring them to my photography studio and we can capture them too! Newborn photography is my other speciality and I offer maternity and newborn bundles too. Send us an email to book a maternity and newborn session today!
Maternity

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Lost Dutchman Maternity Photos

Lost Dutchman State Park is one of my most requested spots for maternity and family photos . With the most beautiful mountain views and stunning saguaro cactus. This location has so much to offer. Darisha, her husband, and sweet pup Luna, drove out from California for their baby moon to take their maternity photos at Lost Dutchman for those very reason. And they got quite the surprise when Arizona did what Arizona does best. We had the most spectacular storm clouds roll through! These clouds are so phenomenal when you pair it with the magnificent views at Lost Dutchman.

Lost Dutchman Photo Ideas

This by far is my favorite view at Lost Dutchman for maternity photos There are so many different areas you can utilize at Lost Dutchman. The park itself is filled with a variety of day use areas and well maintained trails. And one of my clients favorite things about Lost Dutchman (aside from their views) is the fact they have well maintained BATHROOMS! Being able to have a near by restroom when you’re pregnant is so nice!

Because of the way Lost Dutchman is laid out, the sun sets directly on the mountain. This leaves for a beautiful view but can be difficult for those who want ONLY the Mountain View. The park faces west – directly into the sun! This means you will have some amazing back lit cactus shots, but in the end the mountain is only useable for about 10 minutes of your session. If you find yourself thinking sunset maternity photos aren’t quite for you – that is totally okay. We can head inside to our maternity studio.

The best place to take destination maternity photos in Arizona

Arizona is a hot spot for destination maternity photography. You will find some of the most magnificent views in our state. From Lost Dutchman state park to Horseshoe bend. So many moms plan their baby moon in Arizona for that reason alone. If you aren’t wanting to make the drive to Horseshoe bend or the Grand Canyon. Phoenix has a ton of gorgeous spots to take your destination maternity photos.

Being an (almost) Arizona native has a lot of benefits when it comes to knowing the best place for your maternity session. Not only have I lived here for over 30 years, I’ve been a full time Arizona photographer for almost half of that time! And if we are being honest, hiking is truly something I love to do. Being outside is so refreshing. So you’ll often find me looking for brand new places to take you for your destination maternity photos. Destination maternity photos are typically done a little bit early in your pregnancy as most obgyns don’t recommend travel past 33 weeks. I recommend booking your destination maternity photos in Arizona when you are 28-30 weeks pregnant.

Maternity

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5 ways to prepare for glam maternity photos in Arizona
Glam maternity photos is something we do often at our Arizona photography studios. In fact, it’s a thing we are known for. Glam maternity photos in Arizona has become a specialty. Today I’ll share tips to help you prepare for your glam maternity session! At the end I’ll share the best tips to book your maternity Arizona photoshoot – you don’t want to skip that if you are pregnant and looking to capture your maternity photos soon.

Tips to prepare for glam maternity photos in Phoenix
1. Know your style! This is the most important aspect to preparing for glam maternity photos in Arizona. By knowing your maternity style you know what kind of photographer you’re looking for. If you love big, frilly, sparkly maternity gowns. I am your girl. I have over 100 gowns. Ranging from big and frilly to sleek and subtle. It is important to know what dress style you want for your maternity photos. Not sure a studio maternity session is your style? We can take the glam outside!
2. Book a hair and makeup artist. This is CRUCIAL for glam maternity photos. Niv had her hair and makeup done in our studio by one of our best makeup artists, Gatsby. Gatsby has been with my studio for over a decade. I cannot tell you how much better every client feels when they have their hair and makeup done. This is something that really helps with the overall feel of a glam maternity photoshoot. You can have your maternity makeup done in studio prior to your session and it can be booked directly with me!
3. Jewelry is something I love to add some extra sparkle. Whether you bring your own or utilize key items we have at the studio. I believe that more is ALWAYS okay. From dangle earrings, stacked bracelets, elegant necklaces. I love the shine that jewelry creates. And not only do I love jewelry. I love body shimmer as well! I have a variety of body shimmer available for your session.
4. Shoes are a great way to top off a beautiful glam look for your glam maternity photos in Arizona. I love a good stiletto or wedge heel to complete a look. In my maternity photography studio I have a collection of shoes to finish your look. If heels aren’t your thing, that is okay too! Going barefoot is a beautiful option too. Another fun option is boots! You can pair a beautiful gown with a pair of fun boots to create a look that is unique to you.
5. Trust us – and yourself. At the start of every session I always ask if you have a side of your face you prefer. Practice poses in the mirror. When in doubt, trust the way we pose you. I know that it may seem and feel super awkward, however I promise you I always want you to look your best. I always recommend taking a look at past blogs
What to wear to a glamour maternity session

What to wear for your glam maternity photos in Phoenix can be stressful. Niv chose our biggest, most luxurious gown from our collection. This dress is AMAZING and I just know that every mama feels so good in it. I even wore it for my own maternity photos!

Dad chose to wear a black on black outfit with white sneakers. This is a great look because it allows the focus to be on mom for her maternity session.

When to book your studio maternity session

If I could choose the perfect timeframe for your maternity session it would be 28-33 weeks in your pregnancy. This gives you a perfect bump and you aren’t as swollen or as tired as you will be coming weeks. If you are past that, I am always happy to chat and see if we have availability for your maternity session!
Maternity

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Simple Maternity Sessions in Arizona
Simple maternity sessions in Arizona are one of my favorite things to shoot. Where the focus is on you, your partner, and kids if you have any others you are adding in! 14 years ago I began my journey to become a leading newborn photographer in Arizona . Naturally, that lead me to outside maternity sessions in Phoenix. Which then brought me to studio maternity sessions. Over the years I’ve toyed with various styles. Eventually that landed me in the beautiful world of simple maternity sessions. The most important aspect of my career to me is to provide high quality images to my client that will resonate for a lifetime. That means I also have to provide high quality dresses, outfits, and other items for you to wear during your maternity sessions. This chiffon is the best of the best when it comes to fabric for your maternity session. You can find this high quality chiffon fabric in my shop if you’re looking to create a similar look for your clients maternity sessions in Arizona.

Here are the technical aspects of this maternity image. While the image itself is fairly simple, there are quite a bit of photography tools you need to create it! You can find the lights on my amazon storefront
- This image is shot with two strobes. I use Godox AD400 pro.
- I use two strip boxes facing the paper at a 45 degree angle.
- This is shot on savage seamless white paper – size 107″
- I use the soulmate presets – SMAL01 particularly!
- V flat with white side to camera right to reflect onto my clients face.
Moody maternity session inspiration

If you’re not into brighter pregnancy pictures, we can go moody as well! Over the last decade I have focused on being able to provide a variety of looks for your maternity session in Arizona. Meaning you can have a bright white set up as well as a dark black and gray set up as well. Diversity is one of my favorite things when it comes to pregnancy photoshoots. I love pairing a black outfit on a dark gray backdrop for a mood pregnancy picture.

Here are the technical aspects of these images,
- I used an 86″ PLM with two diffusers on a Godox AD400 Pro.
- The black side of the V-Flat for the image on the left in front of fashion gray seamless paper by Savage.
- My light is on camera left and angled at 45 degrees towards my client.
Colorful pregnancy picture inspiration

And now for something completely different. These images are simple, powerful, and COLORFUL! These images are so much fun. These are shot with colorful gels on top of my strobe lights. I use a variety of colors to make something beautiful and different for each client. The best part is that all of these looks can be achieved within a single maternity session. When you book a premier maternity package you can have the dream maternity sessions of your dreams!
Maternity

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Home

Cowboy outfits for maternity session in Phoenix

Bold maternity session looks in Phoenix

Cost of Quinceañera photography in Phoenix.

When to book Quinceañera portraits in Phoenix?

Maternity portrait studio in Phoenix

What’s the best time to book your maternity portraits?

Maternity and newborn bundle packages in Phoenix.

Phoenix’s Best Senior Photographer

The best places to take sunset family photographs in Mesa.

When is the best time of year to take family photos in Mesa?

You want the best Mesa newborn photography studio for your baby

The best time to book your newborn session

What to bring to my maternity photography studio session?

Maternity and newborn bundles

Lost Dutchman Photo Ideas

The best place to take destination maternity photos in Arizona

Tips to prepare for glam maternity photos in Phoenix

What to wear to a glamour maternity session

When to book your studio maternity session

Moody maternity session inspiration

Colorful pregnancy picture inspiration