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room set with dim lights and calm scene for laboring in the water at Serenity Birth Center.

newborn

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A Powerful Belly to Home Birth Story

The birth of Adeline is a belly-to-home birth story that captures so much more than the birth of their sweet girl. It captures this family’s love for each other and this mom’s determination and strength.
Kaitlyn found me when searching for a birth photographer here in Las Vegas. Her goals were to capture everything about this stage of their lives, from the anticipation of awaiting their little girl to their birth at our local birth center, Serenity Birth Center, to bringing her home with an in-home newborn session. More and more families have chosen this birth package over the last few years. The Whole Story birth package includes maternity, birth, and newborn sessions. It captures so much more than just the day your baby arrives. After all, there is so much more to birth stories than the day you deliver!

Be sure also to check out their beautiful birth film at the end. It perfectly demonstrates the beauty and grace she brought their sweet baby into this world.

maternity session with spouse in Las Vegas desert
Little Loo Photography maternity session Las Vegas
sunset maternity session in the Las Vegas desert during the winter
a maternity session in the desert using sun flare with mother holding her belly.

Getting to know clients is vital in being prepared to capture the moments most important to you, so face-to-face meetings are always included in my birth packages. It is the perfect time to hear your wishes and hopes and get a feel for your personalities and family dynamics. It also helps to make the day of delivery more comfortable for everyone. Working alongside families during maternity sessions also helps as I get to see their dynamics in action, and it adds a layer of trust before delivery day. I left this maternity session even more excited to document their birth because their love for each other was tender and sweet. Their laid-back personalities and the way they interacted made it evident that their connection would be a highlight of their birth story.

maternity session in the Las Vegas desert with a long flowing floral gown.
pregnant mother standing in beautiful light in a long flowing gown in Las Vegas desert.

Kaitlyn had an estimated due date of December 29th, which added an exciting layer of anticipation of whether she would deliver in 2022 or 2023 or even on New Year’s Eve. She is a registered nurse who has not only worked as a travel nurse but now works for a travel nurse company. She worked hard both in a staff position on the floor and as a coordinator until the week before her due date and was ready to meet her baby girl. But, their sweet girl was nice and cozy on the inside and waited until 41 weeks and three days to make her grand appearance.

Kaitlyn labored for days before finally bringing their sweet girl earthside. Contractions began after an exam in the office with their midwife and were consistently off and on and uncomfortable, but not enough to be admitted into the birth center. Finally, two days later, they changed and became consistent and intense. She was admitted to the birth center, and I was called in the early morning hours to head their way.

Regina Roy providing labor support at Las Vegas birth center.

Their amazing doula Regina Roy, was with them, and I was so excited to finally meet her in person.

Kaitlyn was most comfortable in the water, and their birth space was quiet and serene, with Jason and Regina diligently by her side, very in tune with what she needed and when she needed it. She was tired after contracting as long as she had and rested as much as possible between contractions.

mother laboring in tub at Serenity Birth Center in Las Vegas with husband and doula at her side.
laboring in water at Serenity Birth Center in Las Vegas
husband spraying water on his wife's back as she labors in the water.

After a few hours, her contractions became a bit irregular again, and so an exam was done. She had made minimal change, and so the decision was made for her to go back home and hopefully get some rest while her body continued to work. They were, of course, disappointed.

There was little rest at home, and Kaitlyn remained uncomfortable but determined. Finally, two days later, things changed, and the intensity and frequency finally increased, and they returned to the birth center, this time with significant cervical change.

room set with dim lights and calm scene for laboring in the water at Serenity Birth Center.

Kaitlyn’s demeanor had also changed. Her determination was awe-inspiring. She remained turned inward where she needed to be to stay focused, and Regina was consistently by her side. Their trust was evident, which helped Kaitlyn’s trust in her direction and suggestions for labor positions. Although exhausted, Jason remained by her side and calm and grounded throughout the process. I was impressed with how calm and supportive he stayed throughout, always trusting Kaitlyn’s body and the process. This is a perfect case of how important it is that your birth team believes in you and supports you. That energy becomes palpable and, I believe, can sway outcomes.

husband connecting with wife while in labor through touching her hands.
supported mother as she labors on the bed at a Las Vegas birth center
Las Vegas doula Regina Roy offering hydration to a mother laboring.
Regina Roy a Las Vegas doula using the Rebozo techniques in labor.
doula fanning a labor client as she sits on a birthing ball
mother resting between contractions while on birthing ball
sacral pressure by doula while mother is standing in labor.
mother laboring in hands and knees position for fetal rotation
framing techniques in birth photography
birth center support staff Las Vegas

The last stages of labor required Kaitlyn to dig deep and allow her body the rest it needed between contractions. Although she was fully dilated for hours, the urge to push and fetal descent was a slow process, just like the rest of her labor, but she remained determined and committed. Finally, at one point, her amazing midwife, April Clyde, and student midwife, Alexyis Bonilla, encouraged her to sit on the toilet in hopes it would aid in fetal descent. There is a reason they call the toilet the “dilation station.” It is often the key to opening the pelvis up to allow for fetal rotation and descent, and it finally did the trick. Kaitlyn went from working so hard to her baby’s head right there! They quickly assisted her into the tub (where she wanted to deliver) just in time for her to deliver her sweet baby girl.

checking cervical dilation while laboring at a Las Vegas birth center
assisted pushing at birth center in Las Vegas.
water delivery at Serenity Birth Center in Las Vegas
mother holding her baby tightly right after delivery at Las Vegas birth center
proud husband after his wife delivered in the water at a birth center

The pride on pure joy on Jason’s face and the pure love and joy of Kaitlyn as she finally held her sweet girl in her arms pretty much had us all in tears.

immediately following a water birth at a birth center in Las Vegas
husband taking his wife's picture while holding her new baby right after delivery
mother holding her new baby girl after delivering in a birth center
support during a birth center birth from husband and midwifery student.
black and white image of a baby right after delivery in a birth tub.

As Kaitlyn was showered and assisted back to bed, dad had some precious skin-to-skin time with his new baby girl; it was so tender and beautiful. He just soaked it all up.

father enjoying skin to skin with his new baby while mother is cared for.
doula smiling at a new baby she assisted on.

And this beautiful soul, Regina. I had heard so many things about her, and I could 1000% see why her clients and the birth community love her. She is a blessing and holds such a special gift. She was so patient and connected with Kaitlyn, and so knowledgeable of the labor process.

skin to skin time with dad after delivery
sweet moments between mom, dad, and new baby right after delivery.
dad participating in newborn exam at Serenity Birth Center in Las Vegas.
April Clyde during a newborn exam at Serenity Birth Center in Las Vegas
April Clyde providing breastfeeding support after a birth center birth in Las Vegas.

Newborn sessions with The Whole Package clients are always a little bittersweet. We’ve communicated so often in the weeks leading up to their birth, and to be a part of such an intimate and important time in their lives always leaves a lasting connection. To see that sweet reward in their arms is the best. These two were utterly smitten with their sweet Adeline, and I loved that they included their fur babies.

in-home newborn session in Las Vegas using master bedroom.
mother holding her new baby in her bedroom during an in-home newborn session in Las Vegas.
Little Loo Photography in home newborn session.
mother and baby together on the bed during an in-home newborn session.
newborn girl in pink wrap on parents bed.
newborn details a week after birth.
dad holding his newborn girl in a rocking chair during in-home newborn session.
dad cradling his new baby girl at home during a newborn session.
newborn in gold and navy outfit during an in-home newborn session.
mother snuggling her new baby girl during a lifestyle newborn session in Las Vegas.

And finally, their birth story in motion. The emotions and beauty of this period always carry over much better in film.

The Birth of Adeline

Wednesday, November 8th, 2023

the birth of Iliana

newborn

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A St. Rose San Martin Hospital Birth

This birth of Iliana is a beautiful birth story from St. Rose San Martin Hospital here in Las Vegas.

This family has trusted me in one form or another with bringing each of their four children into this world.

It all began when Courtney inquired about maternity and newborn sessions for their oldest daughter. She has always valued images and their importance in preserving memories. With their first baby, I was able to document both their maternity and newborn sessions. Being a little uncomfortable in her post-pregnancy skin after their first, she was very hesitant about being in their newborn images. It took a little nudging on my part and she was so glad later that SHE was in them too!

By the time their third baby was on the way, she had come to see, hold, and cherish all these memories even the ones where she might not have been comfortable. I was so excited when she reached out to have me document their third birth. There is nothing more vulnerable than those moments surrounding the birth of your baby, and I loved that she was willing to embrace it all!

By the time they found out their fourth and last baby was on the way, she knew she wanted it all; maternity, birth, fresh 48, and newborn. There is something so special about those last babies. Of course, all babies are special but I remember with my last just wanting it all to move slower, to enjoy even the smallest of moments, and just wishing I could bottle it all up.

This was their second birth I documented for them at St. Rose San Martin, and the staff is always a pleasure.

nurse starting an IV on labor and delivery

being admitted into labor and delivery in active labor.

Courtney had gone super fast with her last delivery, and so we anticipated the same with this one. In fact, with baby number three we were in the hospital for less than an hour, and anesthesia didn’t even make it in time for her to get an epidural. Because I live a good distance away from St. Rose San Martin, I was on hyper-alert and just two days before she delivered we had a little false alarm. It is not uncommon at all, even with previous deliveries! I always tell my clients that I would rather have 10 false alarms than an “oh no! come now”! When it was finally time and they said they were on their way to the hospital, I booked it as quickly as I could to get there. As I was pulling into the parking lot, her husband updated me that she was 7 cms and moving fast. I had to get past the COVID protocols up front and rush up to the unit. When I arrived they were quickly admitting her and her doctor was notified. It was pretty intense at this point.

keep calm and labor on socksmother uncomfortable during transition phase of labor.Courtney was working so hard with her contractions and staying so calm in the midst of the chaos going on around her. There was COVID testing to be done, IVs to start, labs to draw, and the room to set up. Aaron stayed right by her side fanning her and maintaining a sense of calm with his reassuring words.

mother grasping side rail while in laborhusband fanning his wife while she is in labor in hospitalhusband kissing his wife before she delivers their babyWithin 20 minutes of my arrival, it was already time! I think we were all sweating at this point just so happy to have everyone made it, including her doctor. She brought their sweet girl into this world so quickly and so powerfully!

newborn making eye contact with mothermother making eye contact with her baby after delivery at San Martin hospitalmother taking in all her babys details after birthnew baby after delivery at San Martinmother bonding with new baby after a hospital deliveryproud parents with their new baby in the hospitalIliana’s birth happened so quickly it took a bit of time to take it all in! I love these sweet and tender moments in the hour or two following birth. It is so surreal to process that this tiny human that you carried for so many months is now in your arms. Aaron is such a great dad and so hands-on with his children, it is beautiful to witness.

dad holding his new daughter after deliveryhusband texting family after the birth of their babyBecause COVID hospital restrictions were still in place siblings were unable to come to meet their new baby sister for their fresh 48 session. Instead, we decided I would capture them meeting her for the first time at home. It was the sweetest. All three of Iliana’s siblings were completely enamored with her.

In-Home Fresh 48 Session

toddler excited to hold and meet her baby sister.mother introducing big sister to her new baby sister.sister taking in all her new baby sister's details.big brother holding his new baby sister together with their dad.newborn yawn while being held in her mother's arms.sister meeting her new baby sister for the first time.It is always a little bittersweet to come to newborn sessions with these families that book ‘The Whole Story’ with me. By this point, I have become so invested, and have communicated often with them.

In-Home Newborn Session

It is fun to see how everyone has settled and how much newborns have changed in those short days and weeks. There has been some rest and routines are starting to develop, but life still has that slower pace which is so nice.

newborn swaddled in yellow wrap on ivory fur.mother holding her newborn on her shoulder while swaddled.black and white image of two sisters during in home session.This sweet little one is already so loved and I don’t think between mom, dad, and her three siblings, she is loved on and held often.

proud parents with their new daughter during newborn session.dad holding his newborn nose to nose.newborn girl in pink swaddle and cream fur.mom, dad, and newborn during in-home newborn session.Their birth story wouldn’t be complete without their beautiful film. There is something special about seeing all these tender moments on film, even more so than a still image can capture.

The Birth of Iliana

Friday, February 3rd, 2023

baby being delivered by c-section

birth

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A Southern Hills Cesarean Birth

I’m excited to share The Birth of Ruby Ray, a beautiful cesarean birth at Southern Hills Hospital here in Las Vegas.

What makes this birth story extra special is that it is the second birth I’ve had the privilege of documenting for this family. This is another COVID birth story with so many unknowns. This mama advocated hard for me to be present for their birth and put in so many hours and hard work, making sure she contacted and talked to the people she needed to in order to make it happen. Even in the weeks preceding their birth, we weren’t 100% sure I would be able to attend, but she did not give up because it was important to them.

Sometimes it takes families a previous birth experience to realize how important having these moments captured is to them. Having faced infertility with their first, they knew they wanted their births captured. Dad is an incredibly talented photojournalist, and so, of course, they truly understood the value of documenting time and moments.

Their first delivery ended in a cesarean section, and luckily, I was allowed in the OR for that delivery. Facing postpartum depression and anxiety after that delivery, Sarah often shared that the images and video footage we had captured of their birth carried them through many hard days and nights and brought some healing into their journey. This time she was more prepared and able to be proactive in preparing for those emotions knowing she would likely experience it with their second. What I love about Sarah is her transparency and vulnerability in sharing her struggles and victories. She is passionate and advocates for what she believes in, and I admire that!

I’m grateful to Southern Hills nursing staff, nurse management, her OB, and anesthesia for allowing me into their birth space. Being allowed into the operating room isn’t always guaranteed and depends on multiple factors; I am grateful to be trusted in this space.

Be sure to read through to the end to see their beautiful birth story in film.

Southern Hills hospital in Las Vegas, NV
Southern Hills hospital labor and delivery unit

Having finally gotten the approval to be present in the operating room for her delivery just a week ahead, I was ready and excited for her surgery on their scheduled date. I woke up to a text from her telling me that she had started laboring in the early morning hours and was heading in a bit early. I quickly finished getting ready and rushed to meet them there.

mother laboring in the hospital before a c-section
mother gripping side raid during contraction
lab draw before a c-section at Southern Hills

By the time they arrived, her contractions had gotten intense, and she was pretty uncomfortable. A cervical exam revealed that she was significantly dilated, so they had tough decisions on whether to proceed with the scheduled cesarean or attempt a trial of labor. There were many factors they considered in this tough choice, and they decided, along with their OB, to move forward with the c-section. So, her prep for surgery was completed, and an epidural was administered to give her some pain relief before surgery.

leaning on husband while sitting up for an epidural
how an epidural is placed during labor
patient being wheeled to the operating room at Southern Hills
husband putting on sterile clothing before c-section
operating room for c-section
husband holding wife's hand while she is being operated on
support in the operating room during a c-section
pressure as they bring the baby out during cesarean

Having her children close together, there was still so many vivid memories from their first delivery that added a layer of emotion and fear.

baby being delivered by c-section
little loo photography at a c-section
baby at the warmer after a cesarean delivery

Their delivery was so beautiful and look at that head of hair!

important moments to capture during a c-section
baby ink footprints after delivery at Southern Hills
newborn exam after a c-section
the joy of seeing your baby for the first time

Why they continued with repair after delivery, dad was able to accompany their sweet girl to the nursery. There were so many tender moments there.

father going with new baby to the nursery
father taking picture of his new baby in the nursery
newborn blood pressures after delivery
newborn details after delivery
father with baby in the nursery at Southern Hills
father wheeling baby back to the room after c-section

After Ruby was finished with her newborn exam and vitals, dad headed back to the room with her, and mom arrived shortly after.

southern hills rooming in with newborn
dad holding his daughter after delivery at southern hills hospital
mother holding her new baby at Southern HIlls hospital
bonding with your newborn after a c-section
skin to skin after a c-section
tiny details to capture after delivery
eye to eye contact with baby after delivery
father skin to skin with his new baby in the hospital
dad bonding with daughter after delivery
using framing elements in birth photography
mother holding baby with boppy pillow after c-section
tender moments between mom and newborn

Thank you so much, Hagar family, for trusting me, not once, but twice, with life’s most precious and intimate moments!

The Birth of Ruby Ray

Wednesday, November 9th, 2022

labor positions for home birth

fresh 48

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A Las Vegas Home Birth Story

I am so excited to finally share this beautiful Las Vegas home birth story.

Once again, I am behind on my blog posts, but I am committed to getting each birth story up, not only because they are beautiful and full of emotion but also because each is unique and special.

What I love about this birth story is that there are so many beautiful elements and layers of support woven in from her husband who never left her side, to her sweet pups that were nearby at all times patiently waiting, and her midwives who held and supported her when she began to doubt she could.

Be sure to follow along to the end to see their beautiful and powerful birth story in film.

mother laboring in bedroom on birthing ball

Deanna called me on a Saturday morning to let me know that she had been contracting since before sunrise and that they were staying consistent as well as increasing in intensity. The funny thing is that she had a feeling that this particular day would be her son’s delivery date, and she was right! She told me she would call me back when she was ready for me, and I got that call just a few hours later. So mid-morning, I joined them.

She was doing so well moving around to whatever position she felt most comfortable, and that changed from standing, to the birthing ball, to rocking on the bed. You could feel the anticipation in the room. She was able to talk through her contractions, and we had some sweet conversations about how they met and their history together; I love hearing families stories about how it all began.

using an exercise ball during labor at home
laboring in bedroom at home
leaning on bed during labor at home in Las Vegas
standing during contractions

Her midwife team arrived early afternoon and got right to making sure she was hydrated and had some healthy nutrition on board, as well as checking on baby and mom’s vital signs. It was such a beautiful early summer day, so they decided to try and get things moving and went for a walk.

midwife checking baby's heartbeat during labor at home
walking during the early stages of labor
eating during early labor for energy and calories
midwife listening to fetal heart tones as mom walks around the house
supportive husband holding his wife in labor

Her contractions did increase in intensity with the physical activity, and she began to turn inward more, and we all gave her the space to labor. You can feel that shift when moms have a strong birth team; it is a very sacred feeling when the room begins to ground itself, and the chatter fades to quiet support.

mother laboring in her tub at home in Las Vegas
husband rubbing his wife's back as she labors in the tub
mother turning inward during a contraction in her birthing tub
midwives checking fetal heart tones in water
midwife supporting her patient as she labors in the tub in Las Vegas
midwife providing emotional support in labor
working together as a team in labor at home.

She spent some time in the water and tried to find the most comfortable position for her. After some time in the water, she decided to get out and spend some time on the birthing ball she had found comfort on earlier. By this point, it was getting a bit harder to rest between her contractions, but she continued to stay focused and grounded through each wave.

husband and midwife supporting mother as she labors on birthing ball
home birth Las Vegas summer 2021
home birth supplies midwife brings
las vegas birth photographer
husband applying sacral pressure for wife while she labors
the importance of physical support in labor
las vegas home birth options

By now it was early evening and she was moving into the transition stage of labor. Her contractions were coming closer together, and she leaned into her support team. I have seen mothers begin to doubt themselves during this stage of labor; there is often so much going on physically between intense contractions, nausea, shaking, and pressure. She began to doubt herself and her husband, and midwives were there to physically and verbally support her with position changes and encouraging periods of rest. This stage lasted late into the night, and this mama was so exhausted.

midwife encouraging a mother in labor as she transitions
husband's support during the transition stage of labor
mother surrounded by midwife and husband as she labors at home
signs you are in the transition stage of labor
laboring in your bathroom for fetal rotation
hands and knees position while in labor for fetal rotation
including your pets in your birth story
hands and knees position during the transition stage of labor
pushing stage of labor with home birth
toilet use for fetal rotation in labor

By now, she was feeling pressure and the urge to push and spent some time in this stage of labor, and finding a comfortable position was increasingly difficult. There is a reason they call the toilet ‘the dilation station’; it is often where women instinctually go with that intense pelvic pressure, and sitting on the toilet helps to open the pelvis and allow the baby to come down. When her sweet babe decided to come, it happened so quickly that she only had time to get to the space directly outside her bathroom.

las vegas home birth
moments following birth at home in Las Vegas
midwife helping mom as she delivers in bathroom
Las Vegas birth story
parents with newborn son after a homebirth
sweet parents with their newborn son
the relief following the birth of your child
mother holding her son after delivery at home
parents cutting the cord after a home birth in las vegas
ammonia salts after delivery for dizziness

Because of the baby’s position and he was delivered, there was some perineal tearing and quite a bit of blood loss. Poor Deanna was not feeling well at this point and was trying hard to enjoy and savor every moment. Because of the difficulty keeping her vital signs stable, they decided to transfer to the hospital.

Luckily, I was able to come and document a sweet Fresh session for them when they were all home safe and sound.

parents at home with their newborn son
proud dad with his newborn son during home session
in home fresh 48 session in Las Vegas
mother holding her new son during in home fresh session
in home fresh session in Las Vegas
documenting your baby's first days
las vegas in home fresh session
sweet newborn yawn in home session
in home newborn
using your bedroom for a fresh session after delivery
dogs with their new baby human

The Birth of Orion

Thursday, October 27th, 2022

mother at home with support from family

newborn

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Love Never Fails

I am so excited to finally share this beautiful Las Vegas home birth story!

This mama found me in her online search for a birth photographer. Keline had not documented her first birth, and as with so many moms realized after that experience how much meaning having those memories captured can hold. She also had a hospital birth with her first and planned a home birth this time around, so this would be a new experience on multiple levels. She also booked ‘The Whole Story’ package with me, including maternity, birth, and newborn sessions. These are by far my favorite because I get to witness so much more than the birth of your baby, I get a deeper peek into the dynamics, love, and unique characteristics of each family. There are so many beautiful layers to birth, and I love capturing more of each family’s stories through this package.

Keline had pretty quick labor with her first so we knew when active labor kicked in it had the potential to progress quickly. Four days after her due date and after an exam in the office things really started picking up with her contractions. She had been experiencing some labor signs in the days leading up to her labor, but nothing consistent. She was great at updating me on progress and what was happening with her body. We texted back and forth as she updated me and within minutes of telling me things weren’t progressing too much yet, I got another text asking me to come now. So, I grabbed my bags and headed out.

laboring on the toilet during home birth

When I arrived, things were moving really quickly. She was already feeling intense pressure and the urge to push, and her tub was still being set up even as she was getting in. Luckily, the birth team was all present including her midwife Sarah, her husband, sister, and daughter, all there to support and hold her.

including family in home birth including children
husband and midwife supporting a mother as she labors at home in the water
physical support in labor from midwife and husband
midwife providing oral hydration in labor

The plan was for dad to catch the baby, so he got right in the tub with her coaching her through contractions with encouraging words and supporting pressure.

husband delivering baby at home with support of midwife
sister and children present at home birth in las vegas

I have seen so often that period when moms question whether they can really do it. In fact, it is quite common in the transition stage of labor and the baby makes its way down to doubt yourself. Keline stayed so strong and committed even through the intensity of it all.

moral support in labor from midwife at home birth
father delivering baby at home with support from midwife

When little Angelo finally came down, he did so quickly! Both Keline and Ashton delivered him up into Keline’s arms. Their birth is one of the most beautiful and emotional births I’ve documented. Their faces totally say it all. Big sister moved in and out of the area and didn’t stay for too long each time, but when sweet Angelo made his appearance, she was right there. It was the sweetest thing ever.

mother at home with support from family
family centered birth at home
mother emotional after delivery of baby at home
mother's joy after home birth
little loo photography las vegas
skin to skin dad and baby after birth
one on one time with older siblings after birth
family together on bed after home birth
father holding son at home after birth
newborn exam by Sarah Slobody in Las Vegas

One of my favorite things about homebirths is the family-centered care and vibe. It has such a natural feel and provides so much space for families to hold, bond with, and get to know their babies. Those first hours are honored and supported, which is so beautiful to witness.

newborn exam after home birth
midwife evaluating tongue tie after birth
 a supportive birth team after home birth
mother holding her new son after home birth
father and son at home after beautiful home birth

It is always so fun to come back for newborn sessions, especially for my birth clients. It is also a bit bittersweet. I get to see so much of the story come full circle and get to bear witness to so much strength and beauty, and then to see families thriving after it all and so smitten by their new babies. It is seriously the best!

mother holding her son in rocker newborn session
in-home newborn session Las Vegas
mother with her children on bed during newborn session
including siblings in newborn session
big sister with her new baby brother
sister snuggling her new baby brother

Be sure to follow along to the end to see their beautiful birth film. You’ll need some tissues especially with the tender moments between this big sister and her new baby brother.

mother and her son nose to nose
father with his daughter and son newborn session
father holding his son newborn session
in home newborn session green wrap
sweet baby expressions newborn session
beautiful image of mom and newborn
alert newborn during newborn session
las vegas in home newborn
mom and dad with newborn in home session

A Beautiful Las Vegas Home Birth

Thursday, May 26th, 2022

beautiful Las Vegas homebirth

birth

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A Las Vegas Birth Story

This beautiful birth story took place in this family’s home, born into the arms of those that love her the most.

When I began my photography business in Las Vegas in 2011 (I just celebrated ten years!), it felt impossible to build a solid clientele while creating a brand in which I could stand out in such a competitive field. I began my business working with newborns and their families, a specialty that evolved organically from working with families for many years as a labor and delivery nurse. What drew me into newborn photography was the same core desire that drove me into nursing and finally into birth photography during what I believe is life’s most intimate and life-changing time. I’ve worked with families bringing new life into this world for over 21 years now in one capacity or another. There are still so many times that I find myself in tears and so grateful that this is what I get to do. Its blessings are never lost on me.

What is better than all of that? When families come back to me year after year and baby after baby, and I see them grow as a family, that is seriously the best and reminds me that my years of hard work and dedication have paid off!

It is always a privilege to document birth stories and be trusted in my client’s birth space with once-in-a-lifetime moments, moments that cannot be redone. That privilege is a heavy weight to bear, one that I don’t take lightly. But, to be trusted with a family’s birth story more than once is heaven!

beautiful Las Vegas homebirth
mother breathing through contractions on birthing ball
Las Vegas midwife checking her patient's blood pressure
checking pulse oximetry while in labor at home

They had delivered their first two in the hospital. Although their hospital experiences were good, they wanted to be home surrounded by family with their daughter nearby, which wasn’t possible during the pandemic restrictions within hospitals. She sought dual-track care and committed to delivering at home only if things were going well, and she was a good candidate for a homebirth. After interviewing multiple midwives, they connected with Marvelys Lopez and Kim Trower of Sweet Beginnings Midwifery here in Las Vegas.

In early January, mom went into labor alone in the middle of the night. I got the call that the contractions that had been coming off and on for weeks without any regularity had finally changed and had become regular in pattern and were increasingly uncomfortable. So I gathered my things and quickly headed out the door.

labor positions with support from husband and midwife
woman breathing through her contractions while on birthing ball
Marvelys Lopez massaging her patient's back during labor
husband supporting his wife while she labors on birth ball
Kim Trower of Sweet Beginnings in Las Vegas
positions to rotate baby in labor
midwife braiding her patient's hair

This is the second birth I’ve attended with this birth team, and this special touch of braiding her patient’s hair while laboring touched my heart both times. It was a beautiful mix of physical touch and thoughtfulness that helped both moms feel more confident and ready to meet their babies.

entering the transition phase of labor
Las Vegas home birth story
the rough period between transition and birth
lower back massage during labor

Although this was their third baby, this one was not their fastest labor; getting this sweet baby to rotate required a lot of position changes and movement, and both mom and her midwives were so patient and dedicated.

midwives holding space for their patient
home birth supplies
born at home a Las Vegas birth story

When the baby finally decided to come, she came fast! This mama barely made it out of the bathroom and almost to the bed, and she was here!

alert newborn baby
Best Las Vegas homebirth photographer
mother holding her baby while her fundus is massaged

The timing could not have been more perfect because by now, it was morning, and big sister was waking up. She was a bit unsure at first about this new baby in their home but quickly warmed up, and we captured the most adorable moments, be sure to watch their video!

big sister meeting her new baby after home birth
shy big sister after being introduced to their new baby
big sister deciding if she likes her new baby
big sister taking in all of her new baby's details.
dad and daughter helping with newborn exam
sweet sibling moments
home birth weighing of baby
newborn exam after Las Vegas homebirth
home birth newborn exam
home birth newborn exam measurements
sweet newborn yawn

And finally, their beautiful birth story is told so well in film.

Born at Home and Into Love

Monday, September 6th, 2021

tender moments as a family after delivery

birth

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A Summerlin Hospital Birth Story

This beautiful pandemic birth story took place at Summerlin Hospital.

One of my 2020 highlights while in the COVID-19 pandemic was documenting this beautiful family’s second birth story.

To say that the restrictions accompanying the COVID-19 pandemic have affected my ability to document life’s most important moments for families is a major understatement.

Having documented this family’s first birth, the idea of missing the opportunity with their second was stressful for all of us, and we waited on pins and needles in the weeks and months leading up to their due date, completely unsure of how things would look and whether it would even be an option. Luckily, by the time their due date came along, our cases and hospital capacity here in Nevada were looking much better and because I was certifying as a doula, I had the privilege of being able to attend while doula privileges were allowed. I will forever be grateful for that opportunity.

Be sure to read end to end to see their beautiful birth story in video!

husband holding his wife's hand while he stands by the bed
mother sitting on a birthing ball next to the bed for support while in labor

Hannah and Christian are one of my favorite couples. They have a unique bond and a relationship that draws you in and makes you want to be in their presence. They naturally love each other and wear their emotions beautifully on the outside. They are also reserved and very private in many senses; being in their birth space both times felt almost reverent. Hannah was strong enough to set healthy boundaries and expectations around both birth experiences and voice her wishes; in both of their births, I worked my hardest to honor that space.

giving birth during the pandemic
husband using shake the apples method with a towel while wife is in labor
spinning babies techniques to use while in labor
husband applying counter pressure while his wife is in hands and knees position during labor.

So many elements of Hannah’s labor were so similar to her first, from the time of day she labored to the way her labor progressed. She was fortunate enough to have the same room as her first delivery and her dear friend and fellow nurse as her labor nurse.

With both labors, they used many of the methods they had learned from the Spinning Babies techniques, and Christian was right in tune with knowing which one to help her with as she labored.

supportive husband  holding his wife's hand before an exam in the hospital.
standing while in labor with support of partner to lean on
using the peanut ball to help your baby rotate while in labor
capturing the details of a labor room while documenting a birth story.
mother using the birthing ball on her hospital bed for support.
unique positions to rotate baby in labor las vegas
contractions increasing in strength and duration during labor.
using gravity to sit up in the bed while laboring in the hospital
side lying position in labor for fetal rotation
husband staying by his wife's bedside as she labors in the hospital
beautiful pandemic birth story
increasing pain with contractions while in labor
beautiful angles and perspectives in documenting birth
beautiful Las Vegas birth story
a husband and wife connect during labor by holding hands
husband at his wife's bedside as she labors during the pandemic
contractions increasing in pain and intensity hospital birth
mother focusing during contractions during a hospital birth in Las Vegas

Their sweet girl did not want to rotate and come down, which prolonged her labor, even with all her dedication to position changes. Finally, she came down, and it was time!

preparing to push in a hospital in las vegas during the pandemic
time to push in labor
the atmosphere in the labor room when preparing to push.

Just like their previous birth, once she decided to come, it unraveled quickly, and they weren’t sure her doctor would make it in time, but also, just like last time, she did! And just like that- their sweet baby girl was here!

beautiful pandemic birth story
a mother holding her baby for the first time at Summerlin hospital in Las Vegas
pure elation after the birth of your child
first moments with your baby after a hospital birth
a mother taking in every little detail of her newborn daughter
newborn details in the hospital
mother relieved after delivery with her daughter in her arms
skin to skin right after a vaginal delivery in a hospital in las vegas
pure joy after a vaginal delivery
the pure joy after a delivery in the hospital in las vegas
cutting the cord after a vaginal delivery in Las Vegas
tender moment between mom and baby after vaginal delivery

After cutting the cord and skin-to-skin, their sweet baby girl went to the radiant warmer for assessment and her newborn exam.

newborn exam at the radiant warmer with dad at bedside.
newborn measurements at the radiant warmer
the precious moments at the radiant warmer during the newborn exam
the period following delivery in the hopsital
capturing the first moments with your baby
cutest little newborn girl

Quickly she was right back in her mama’s arms for more skin-to-skin and initial breastfeeding. Because their last delivery was preterm and their son transferred to the NICU, this period was both special and incredibly emotional for them.

pure joy at relief to hold your baby in your arms
the golden hour after a hospital birth
sweet newborn moments in the hospital
skin to skin and the importance in the first hours
tender moments as a family after delivery
pulse oximeter on mother's finger after delivery
beautiful ending to a pandemic birth story

And finally, their beautiful birth story film!

A Pandemic Birth Story

Tuesday, March 16th, 2021

mother holding her new baby after a beautiful home birth

birth

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By Her Side

‘By Her Side’ were the first words that came to mind thinking back on their birth story. There was not a moment that Brianne was not surrounded with love and support as she brought her precious Emerson earthside. You’ll see it all through her birth images and birth story film (be sure to check it out at the end of this post). I am excited to finally share this beautiful and special birth story.

This birth story is extra special because Brianne is my sweet friend and fellow birth photographer and artist behind Brianne Hidalgo Photos + Films here in Las Vegas. We have been backups for each other for the past year and have changed, and have had so many wonderful conversations and meetings of the minds on how to best serve our community and support each other. She has such a smart business sense and is community-minded, not to mention incredibly talented. I was so happy to have found her. So, when she asked me to document her own birth, I was ecstatic!

Las Vegas birth photographer for home births
home birth with family by her side in Las Vegas

Brianne had delivered in the hospital with her daughter. She was excited about the opportunity to deliver at home with one of our local midwives Sherry Hopkins of Well Rounded Mama. Emily Espinosa a certified doula with Well Rounded Mama was her certified doula and was so in tune with Brianne and was so attentive and professional.

Emily Escinosa certified doula in Las Vegas
husband and daughter holding mother's hands during a contraction
view of doula care during water birth
daughter holding mother's hands during a contraction in birth tub

As it seems to happen most often, Brianne went into labor during nighttime. Right before she let me know that her water had broken and her contractions were irregular but becoming more and more consistent and would call when they became more regular and intense. Just a few hours later she called me to come on over! Since I live on the completely opposite side of town, I got ready and headed out immediately, arriving just after midnight.

controlled during home birth with intense contractions
support team at home birth of midwife, doula, and family
mother turning inward during a contraction during a home birth in Las Vegas
sweet daughter supporting her mother during a water birth at home.
mother connecting with her daughter while in labor at home
surrounding yourself with love and support while in labor at home
midwife checking fetal heart tones during home birth
husband supporting his wife during labor at home.

Once I arrived, Brianne’s contractions intensified pretty quickly, yet she remained so focused and determined. Her husband and daughter stayed by her side, providing physical support and words of encouragement. It was so cute when her daughter even directed her to breathe through her contractions.

daughter touching her moth's arms during a contraction
using breathing techniques during labor at home

Brianne was so close, and to assist in the rotation of her baby, her birth team assisted her out of the tub and to her bed and side-lying. The lights were dimmed for rest.

side lying in labor to help in rotation of your baby
birth team checking fetal heart tones during a Las Vegas home birth
intense contractions in the birth tub at home
laboring in the birth tub during a Las Vegas homebirth

The movement and position change was just what she needed and pretty quickly she had the urge to push. Things moved pretty quickly at this point and after just a few pushes, her sweet baby was in her arms.

mother holding her new baby after a beautiful home birth

At 0318 with her family by her side, Brianne delivered this sweet boy.

daughter and husband observing their new baby after delivery.
sherry hopkins checking a baby's heart rate after a Las Vegas homebirth.
proud dad and daughter seeing their new baby brother
beautiful Las Vegas homebirth
sister admiring her new baby brother in a birth tub
dad taking picture of new baby after delivery
dad holding new son for the first time after a home birth

One of the things I love most about home births is the postpartum period after delivery. I love seeing how comfortable moms are at home in their beds, with their family members by their sides, with no rushed bonding or timelines. It feels so relaxed and natural.

moments at home with baby immediately after delivery
daughter feeding mother while she breastfeeds after delivery
that first hour of skin to skin at home
those beautiful newborn details
comfortable at home after a home birth
mother admiring her new baby while breastfeeding
sherry hopkins performing a newborn exam
newborn exam after home birth in Las Vegas
newborn measurements including head, chest, and abdomen
measuring a newborns head circumfrence
dad holding the scale while weighting a baby during a home birth
sweet newborn details at home
baby holding his dads fingers after birth
family together after a home birth on the bed

And, finally, their birth story film. I love seeing birth stories through video; it adds such a beautiful element and shows emotion and moments that can’t be as fully captured in still images.

Thank you so much, Hidalgo family, for trusting me with your birth story!

The Birth of Emerson Rey

Thursday, December 3rd, 2020

beautiful Las Vegas birth story in hospital

birth

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A Las Vegas Birth Story

There are so many fears and doubts that can hold people back from documenting their birth. I understand so many of those fears and doubts.

Birth is one of life’s most intimate and life-changing moments we experience. You are vulnerable and at your rawest. I would argue that this is why you should document your birth story.

Birth is made up of moments that change us at our very core, moments that cannot be relived or redone. It is also one of the most emotional times in our lives. It can become hazy and fade quickly amidst the loss of sleep, physical changes, and fleeting memories.

Emily found me after seeing a birth story shared on social media and was immediately interested! She says that she hadn’t really considered documenting her birth until she saw this post, and then saw my name mentioned in the thread as a local birth photographer and videographer. She reached out to me, and I am so glad that she did!

One of Emily’s main drives in wanting to document her birth was the fact that her family lives out of the country. Emily and Daniel met while he was serving in the Air Force in Europe. Her family is all still overseas, and wanting to have a way to share their birth with her family was important to her. (Be sure to see their beautiful birth film at the end of the post!)

There was much anticipation and excitement in the months and weeks approaching their birth, and they were so happy to have a way to share that with family and friends who could not be by their sides.

As Daniel is still on active duty, their birth would take place at Mike O’Callaghan Hospital at Nellis Air Force Base here in Las Vegas. Because it is a military hospital, it was necessary for them to arrange clearance for me onto the base. This was the perfect opportunity for us to meet in person and have a nice coffee date (I meet all my birth clients before their birth either in person or via FaceTime). We talked about what was most important to her and Daniel, the types of images and footage they were most interested in, what her biggest fears and concerns were, and I got to see exactly where I needed to go when the big day came.

Mike O'Callaghan Medical Hospital at Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas

As Emily passed her due date, an induction of labor was set up.

ultrasound before staring induction

One of Emily’s wishes was to tell the whole story of their birth experience to share with her family and friends. So, we decided that I would come as she was being admitted to the unit and capture some of the early details of checking in and getting settled, and then would head home and wait for active labor before returning. That way, they could get the rest they needed, all the while adding additional details to their birth story.

ultrasound performed by OB prior to induction of labor in Las Vegas
husband holding his wife's hand as she labors in a Las Vegas hospital

This was my first experience at our military hospital, and I was so impressed by their staff and the beautiful experience they gave Emily and Daniel. As a retired labor nurse of 19 years at another local hospital, I am always curious about how different care might be in other facilities. I do have to say each hospital has its own vibe and subtle differences. I think Nellis often gets a bad rap because it is a military hospital, but I have to say I walked away from this experience in awe of the care they provided this family.

clear liquid served in a Las Vegas hospital while in labor
husband and wife enjoying moments of peace during the beginning of their induction of labor
induction of labor at Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas
woman laughing in the early stages of labor at Nellis Air Force Base
warmer awaiting delivery at Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas
nurse caring for her labor patient at Nellis Air Fore base in Las Vegas

After they were all settled in and the plan of care discussed and initiated, I stepped out and went home to get some rest and await their call for my return. In the early morning hours, Emily let me know that she had progressed and had an epidural placed for pain relief. It was the perfect time for me to head back, be close by, and be ready to document more of their story.

parents resting in the in between moments of labor at the military base in Las Vegas
husband comforting his wife while she labors at Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas
patient eating clear liquid diet in early labor in hospital
playing games while in the early stages of labor at a local Las Vegas hospital

It had been almost 12 hours since their induction began, and Emily hadn’t really gotten much sleep but had received pain relief with her epidural placement, so she was able to finally squeeze in a small nap and some games with Daniel. It was a fun way to pass the time.

peanut ball used in labor at Las Vegas hospital in rotating the baby
details kept at bedside while a woman labors who had lost her mother

I love when clients bring personal items to keep at their bedside. It adds such a personal element and something beautiful to focus on. Emily kept a picture of her mother, who is no longer with her, at her bedside.

breathing through contractions with husband supporting his wife through touch
husband and wife holding hands while she breaths through contractions
pain during labor with relief of physical touch

As the morning wore on, Emily became more and more uncomfortable and the staff did their best to keep her comfortable between position changes and adjustments to her epidural.

beautiful Las Vegas birth story in hospital
storytelling in documenting birth
holding hands to help with the pain of childbirth

Even with the return of discomfort and the hours passed with no cervical change, Emily and Daniel remained positive and patient, trusting the process. I was really in awe of how strong Emily was. She kept such a beautiful attitude through it all.

father at the bedside during the long process of labor induction
husband stroking his wife's hair during labor at a hospital in Las Vegas
nursing care during induction of labor
changing angles during labor at Nellis Hospital
woman breathing through contractions while laboring at Nellis hospital
supportive husband at laboring wife's bedside in a Las Vegas hospital
using the birthing ball for fetal rotation.
patient using the birthing ball in the last stages of labor

As Emily labored through another shift change with still not much cervical change, her night shift nurse came in and advocated for Emily, trying everything she could to help her baby rotate. Her advocacy and interventions were just what Emily needed at this stage, and she quickly progressed to complete dilation and was soon ready to push.

fevers during the last stages of labor
use of oxygen while in labor in the hospital setting.
how to be supportive during the pushing stage of labor
delivery moments in the hospital setting in Las Vegas

Emily was a rock star who worked hard to deliver baby Daniel. Thank goodness this last stage was relatively quick after all those hours of laboring. There was some distress upon delivery, so baby Daniel was quickly taken to the radiant warmer for assessment and stabilization.

when your baby goes to the warmer after delivery
supporting mother after delivery
coordinated care by birth team

Daniel and Emily’s birth team were so coordinated and capable and worked seamlessly to assess and stabilize Daniel so that he could quickly return to his mama’s chest for skin-to-skin.

dad cutting the cord after delivery
dad interacting with his baby at the radiant warmer
baby at the radiant warmer after delivery
dad with his new baby after delivery at Nellis Air Force base
the joy and love the radiated from mother and father holding their baby

Finally, Emily had in her arms the baby she had worked so hard for, waited so patiently for, and anticipated for so long.

skin to skin with your baby right after delivery
parents bonding with their baby after delivery
checking the suck reflex on baby
the hour after delivery in bonding with your baby
documenting the important baby details after delivery
baby details after delivery
baby care after delivery and bonding with mother
first diaper change by dad in the hospital
baby footprints in the hospital
baby measurements in the hospital

There was so much story, emotion, and intimate details throughout Emily and Daniel’s birth story, it is one of my favorites to date. So grateful to have been trusted in capturing it.

Nothing captures the emotions and beauty in birth better than video, and I love how beautiful their birth story is in film.

This Is The Why

Sunday, June 7th, 2020

As long as I can remember I have been drawn to stories and the people, like you, that make them worthwhile.

It’s an honor that you let me capture yours.

let's capture the beginning of it all. 

Big feelings, big changes, and big experiences are on the horizon

DOCUMENTARY BIRTH PHOTOS & FILM