A Beautiful Hospital Birth Story
Finally, in their arms is the emotional journey from loss to a celebration of birth years in the making.
Many of the clients who find me have walked long journeys to expecting their baby, whether it be struggles with IVF or the heartbreaking experience of loss. Of course, all clients who hire me do so because they see the value in documenting these momentous life events, but there is something extra special about arriving in these moments after such emotional roads.
This family found me after experiencing loss in their journey to a third baby. When Ashley first reached out, she had just passed her first trimester of this pregnancy. She was so joy-filled to be there, finally feeling like she could take a breath, enjoy this pregnancy, and begin planning.
Their older two children are school-aged, which meant all that anticipation was even greater. To make it extra exciting, they didn’t find out the gender, instead wanting it to be a surprise, and were just happy to be expecting!
Ashley’s biggest fear in hiring me was that I would miss their birth as her labor with their daughter was crazy fast! The concern was she would go fast again, and I wouldn’t make it in time to capture all the moments that were so important to them. We talked through those concerns and decided I would start call at 37 weeks, and we would communicate often. The other concern was that I had a trip planned right around her due date, but she had gone early with her other two, so we had a backup plan but hoped we wouldn’t have to utilize it.
As Ashley’s due date approached an induction date was scheduled because of her history. It was the day before I was set to leave for my trip. As can happen with induction dates, the unit was busy and had to bump her induction time back putting it the night before my trip. Because she had gone fast with her previous labor we hoped it would still time out perfect and talked often throughout the night.
As luck would have it, it took awhile for her contractions to get going and just was things were starting to ramp up, it was time for me to head to the airport. We were all so bummed but my backup photographer Krystal (who is incredibly amazing, so please check her out) totally saved the day, and rocked this whole birth. Their story is a prime example of why a backup photographer is so vital to a birth photography business. She treated this sweet family just like she would one of her clients and captured their story so beautifully!
Be sure to watch their birth film at the end of this post to enjoy the pure joy of them finding out gender!
This is right when I was getting on the plane and less than an hour after Krystal arrived.
Once contractions became regular, things changed quickly. Luckily, Krystal was packed and ready to go and got there quickly, even coming from the other side of town.
Their OB was called and got there quickly, and before you knew it, she was holding their new baby in her arms. She had dreamt of this and waited for it with such anticipation.
In Their Arms
Their OB had dad glove up and help ‘catch’ their baby, and it was a…….GIRL!
Ashley and Isaiah really hoped everything would time out where we could capture big brother and sister meeting their new baby. I’m so grateful Krystal was willing to stay and capture these precious moments for this family. I mean, look at their faces!
And, of course, I have to include this picture of Krystal she captured at this birth. I adore her!
If you’re wondering how births are managed with a backup photographer, here it is! The backup typically shoots the birth and then delivers the files to the primary photographer to edit and deliver. I would only ever use a backup with skills comparable to mine. Although Krystal had backed me up many times while I was tied up at sessions, this was the first time she actually had to attend a birth for me and the first and only time I’ve had to have a backup shoot a birth for me. Although I was so sad and disappointed to not have been there, I was 100% confident she would shoot it beautifully, and boy, did she!
Tuesday, October 29th, 2024
A Home Birth after Cesarean Birth Story
This redemptive home birth story is full of strength and emotion. It is incredible to capture the expressions and emotions when a mother experiences the birth she dreamed of! It is an honor to see healing and power firsthand and then capture it for families to relive that victory and strength over and over.
This is the second birth this family hired me for. I had the honor of documenting their first birth experience, and boy, were there differences between the two. Both stories are incredibly beautiful, powerful, and so full of love. Still, their first birth left them with a lot to process and recover from.
Their Previous Birth Experience
Their first birth experience started at home, where they planned to welcome their first son at home and in water. Becca had spent so much time preparing for his birth, both mentally and physically. Her labor ended up being days long, which left her physically, emotionally, and mentally exhausted. As she moved into the transition phase, their baby began to experience fetal distress, and the decision was made to transfer to the hospital. Their first child was born in 2021 when our hospitals were still very restricted here, and so I wasn’t allowed in to capture the climax of their birth after hours together at home. Of course, it wasn’t the birth experience they dreamt of, and in the years following and during their subsequent pregnancy, Becca worked hard at processing, healing, and preparing for their next birth experience. She remained resolute and committed to not letting that experience hinder her second attempt at a home birth.
Becca had gone a week and one day over her due date with their first, and that wait was tough for her. This time, she worked hard not to let dates get in her head and trusted her body and the process. At 39 weeks, multiple episodes of prodromal contractions began. These contractions would remain irregular and never increase in intensity or frequency (classic prodromal labor signs). Of course, these episodes left her tired, but instead of focusing on them, she worked hard to get periods of rest when she could and relied on the help of her husband and mother (who came to stay this time).
Here Comes the Redemptive Part
Then, one night, she texted to say that they were feeling different, so she was going to sit on her ball, rest, and see what happened. She then turned communications over to Kirk; he was great at keeping me updated on how things were going. They called their doula, Randi, over, and together, they decided to wait to bring me out until things were progressing regularly. Soon, their midwife group, Serenity (the same she had used for their first birth experience), was sent out to assess mom and check out the baby. They decided it was finally time to bring me out, so I grabbed my stuff and headed out!
When I arrived about 30 minutes later, things had begun to progress quickly, and Becca was clearly in transition. There was so much love and support around her from words of encouragement and physical touch by their doula, husband, and midwife in training. They reminded her that she could when things continued to increase in intensity. Becca pulled on the work she had done before she reached this point and returned to the tools she had learned to trust during all that work.
One of the many things I love about this birth story is that although Becca frequently regrounded herself (and boy, was it cool to see), she wasn’t afraid to lean into the raw, primal side of birth and literally roared her son into this world.
But best of all were her expressions and reactions when she realized she had actually done it! She had the home birth experience she had dreamed of! She was in awe of the whole experience and herself. I mean, look at her face!
I had previously worked with Barbara (one of their new midwives in training) for years when I was a labor and delivery nurse here in the Vegas valley, and so it was so fun to see her in this new role! Things moved so quickly at the end that the rest of the team didn’t make the delivery. Again, such a different birth experience from their first!
When I attend births, phrases often cycle through my head. They are often the core story thread or emotion I’m witnessing in documenting, and as I captured theirs, REDEMPTIVE was the phrase I kept hearing. This is truly the definition of a redemptive birth. It didn’t just happen; it took so much work before this moment, and knowing that made it all the more emotive.
I one hundred percent think they would have processed and handled whatever happened this time around as well and would have been happy to hold their son in their arms, but to have these moments and this experience was just incredible!
Shortly after she delivered the rest of her birth team arrived. Every single person in that room knew how hard they worked to get to this moment and there was so much joy in their birth space.
This will forever be one of my favorite birth stories because of all the emotion present throughout. What is so amazing is that I get to know these families and capture the most emotive and intimate moments in their lives. It is never lost on me; it is a true honor and privilege. Thank you so much, Holmes family, for not just trusting me once but twice!
Lastly, I have to do a plug for Becca because she is so amazing. She often contributes over on Substack and on Instagram where she talks about all things motherhood and mental health. You should go follow her, you won’t regret it!
Friday, September 20th, 2024
A Birth Story of Resilience and Strength
From Home to Hospital is a beautiful example of the beauty found in every birth story. Navigating the emotions accompanying a home to hospital transfer can be difficult, yet this family did so with strength, resilience, and love.
Briana found me through a recommendation from a friend who had hired me to document their birth story. Word of mouth is my favorite way to find clients. It means that families were happy they hired me to document their birth and were willing to recommend me, which means the world to me!
Briana reached out to me just weeks before her due date, and I was so happy that I had an opening on my calendar. I typically book months in advance, but babies tend to come on their own timing, often leaving little gaps in the calendar where their due dates were, and this was the case for them!
Brianna is a powerhouse in our community and a talented entrepreneur as the owner and CEO of Skyluna here in Las Vegas. She is incredibly creative and focused, and what stands out every time you talk to her is that her family is the core drive for all she does.
She shared that she had not documented her first two births, and this time, she wanted to remember all the details. Her first birth experience left her with much to process after it ended in cesarean. With her second child, she opted for a home birth, and that experience was redemptive for her. She had hoped for the same experience, and knowing how important these moments are, she wanted all those details in images and video footage.
Briana was a week and four days past her due date. She had gone a week over on her previous two births, so she took it all in stride and trusted her body and the process. Finally, irregular contractions began and remained for days but didn’t increase in intensity or frequency, so she tried to rest when she could and kept her regular appointments in the office. The great news was that she was 4 cms at that appointment, so she knew it was soon.
Her husband Ryan texted me late that night to let me know they had finally changed and were increasing in frequency and intensity, so I gathered my things and headed over. When I arrived, she was breathing well through her contractions with Ryan by her side, emotionally and physically.
After midnight, their birth team arrived. I often work with the Serenity/Baby’s First Day midwives, who are such a breath of fresh air. They are incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and so welcoming of me. This was their second birth with their team, so it was extra special.
Contractions continued to increase in intensity, and she began to feel pressure. Frequent fetal heart checks were done, and as her baby descended lower, he began to show signs of stress.
The midwives were quick to try different positions with mom to alleviate some of that stress for both mom and baby, but there were no significant changes for either. So, the tough decision was finally made to transfer to the hospital. EMS was called, and Sarah, their midwife, followed along.
The memories that they had held from their first birth that ended in a cesarean, of course, brought up so many emotions. They both allowed themselves to feel those emotions and advocated for themselves so well. Sarah stayed with them until they were able to get an epidural placement and some rest. Her vaginal exam upon admission was 6 cms.
Their nurse was just amazing. She listened to Briana and Ryan, was hands-on with position changes, and did all she could to help their baby rotate and descend. She also advocated for this family many times. But despite all the rest of the interventions and position changes, there were no changes in dilation or fetal descent, and their baby continued to have episodes of distress.
Finally, the decision for a cesarean section. Although it was such a difficult decision, this time, this family felt that they were part of the decision-making process for their birth, felt heard, and had done a great job of advocating for themselves.
One of the toughest parts of this decision for both families and myself as a birth photographer is that often, only one person is allowed in the operating room with mom. I have had staff, OBs, and anesthesia allow me in for deliveries at the request of families. Still, most often, it is a “no.” I could write a whole post about that. But I also prepare families for this when we have our face-to-face so they aren’t blindsided. I offer two options, either take my camera back to the operating room with dad, or have dad continue to document via phone and incorporate those images into their birth story, then, I pick back up when they come back to the room. Very few dads take me up on this offer, but Ryan did. I did a quick tutorial on using my camera, and he totally nailed it!
Once sweet little Phoenix Blaze was finally here, his difficulty descending was pretty clear… he was almost 10 lbs!
One of my favorite parts of documenting birth stories is being there when siblings meet. It always makes for the most adorable and tender moments. Grandma brought them right over, and I was lucky enough to still capture them in the hospital!
I believe documenting your birth is powerful in all circumstances; after all, it is full of irreplaceable moments. However, the changes to the anticipated plan often bring so many emotions to navigate. These images will help families see the beauty present there all along.
Tuesday, August 27th, 2024
Welcoming Their Third Baby Naturally after IVF Journeys
Having the opportunity to document these moments for families always feels like witnessing miracles. The birth process itself is miraculous to think about, from growing a tiny human inside of our bodies to the process of babies transitioning from a dark, fluid-filled, quiet environment to a bright, noisy environment where their little bodies go through so many changes from alterations in circulation to breathing air for the first time. The fact that it occurs naturally most of the time is impressive!
This birth story is even more miraculous not just because of the usual miracles that unfolded on this day as they welcomed their baby girl into their arms but because of the years, tears, and anticipation that preceded this day. You see, this family had struggled through infertility for years.
Finally, through fertility treatments, they were able to have their first baby together in 2020. During this pregnancy, this mom found me when searching for a photographer to document this momentous time in their lives. This family savored every second of that pregnancy and delivery, and they were so happy to have their sweet baby girl in their arms finally. Being born during 2020 and all the pandemic restrictions made it challenging for me to attend their delivery, but things worked out perfectly in the end, and I was able to be there for them. Sadly, her family could not attend because of those restrictions, which was really hard for Ashlie as they are so close.
Again, in 2021, Ashlie reached out to me to let me know they were pregnant again! The transfer of another frozen embryo was successful, and they were expecting their second daughter. Again, there were continued hospital restrictions, but I was able to be present for their birth, and her sister was able to be there this time! It wasn’t quite what she wanted because she still had to decide who was there and wanted her mother there. Their second daughter was born after a completely different labor and her own unique birth story.
This sweet family had two beautiful daughters and still had another embryo should they decide to grow their family again. And then, the most amazing and miraculous thing happened, they became pregnant on their own! It meant that they would have three babies under the age of 3, and although that felt a bit overwhelming at times, they truly leaned into that miracle and rejoiced! This truly was a miraculous surprise!
The Miraculous Surprise
Of course, this pregnancy and birth had to have their unique birth story, and I love that each of their girls was different! Although there were continued restrictions in most of our local hospitals in 2023, the staff was much more empathetic and, with communication, agreed to let them have her mother, sister, Greg, of course, and myself all present! This meant so much to Ashlie; you could feel the energy in their birth space shift when she had that support around her.
This pregnancy went the longest for her gestationally, which made those last weeks extra challenging, but once labor finally started, she had such a fast labor! Although it was so much quicker than her previous two, it was also more intense, so that period waiting for her epidural was a bit rough, but once she got that, she was able to relax and enjoy the support around her.
Ashlie continued to progress quickly; before you knew it, she felt intense pressure. She leaned into breathing and her support team, and what I loved was that she focused on the blessings in her life and pulled out her phone with a picture of her sweet girls to fo
Just before she was ready to deliver, she gave each of us these sweetest gifts. How thoughtful and kind is that? It meant so much to me. I’m always blown away that I get to witness these moments and am trusted in these spaces. This birth was additionally emotional for me, and I processed the fact that I’ve been there for all three of their births!
Because things moved so quickly, they waited for her obstetrician to arrive before pushing. Dr. Adashek is amazing and was on call for her regular doctor; Dr. Wilkes. Greg had been able to assist in the delivery of their last baby and had hoped he would have the opportunity again. Dr. Adashek went above and beyond and gave Greg the main role of delivering his daughter. It was amazing!
Each of their girls have been named after grandparents which made each so unique and extra special!
You can feel all that emotion and love in their still images, but video has an extra special way of showcasing all those emotions!
We have done newborn sessions with each of their girls, and each girl had a designated color that they incorporated into their sessions. Again, Ashlie is so thoughtful and intentional, and I love that, among a million other things about her.
Tuesday, July 30th, 2024
The Birth of Jaxson
This super fast homebirth is such a beautiful birth story and a great example of the wide range of important and beautiful moments there are to capture around birth, even when I’m not with your for a long period of time.
I had been following this beautiful mama on Instagram for quite some time (you should follow her now; she is amazing). I was drawn to her outlook, love for her family, and sense of humor. I ended up reaching out to her when I had a gap in my birth schedule. I was so happy it worked out!
Her biggest concern was whether I would make it in time. We live on the opposite sides of town, and there isn’t a quick route to get to her house. Her first baby was crazy fast, with the midwife just missing their birth. She described that birth as going from “maybe I’m in labor” to “the baby is coming” in a very short amount of time. So, we came up with the plan to communicate often, and I would come out on the earlier end and even hang out in their area if needed when things started moving along.
One night, she texted to let me know she was having some labor signs but nothing consistent, and she wasn’t sure it was the real deal. I offered to come hang out in their area in my car (I’ve had lots of car naps and sleep breaks during births), but she didn’t want me to drive that far if it ended up dying down. The following day, I woke up surprised there was no texts or calls, but got ready just in case. Sure enough, I got the call at 7:30 am that things were moving fast and to come now. I jumped right in my car and headed out. Of course, traffic could have been better this time of day, but luckily, it was not too horrid.
As I was pulling up to their community the midwife called to see how close I was. She was right behind me and not sure she would make it either. When I pulled up out front her dad was out there waiting for me, to let me know things were happening fast and she had the urge to push.
This is where having my cameras on and ready to go is vital. I’ve learned that lesson along the way, and always walk in ready to start shooting immediately, if needed. As I walked in dad was calmly delivering his son, and their doula right by her side offering such calm support. Their midwife’s operator was also on speaker with them ready to give any guidance they might need. Their birth space was incredibly calm and quiet. This mom is a serious rock star!!
The funny thing is she delivered even faster than last time and in the exact same position she had her first baby in.
Delivered by Dad
The best part of this story is that this baby was delivered by his father.
What a cool birth story, right? This dad will always get to hold and cherish the moment of delivering his son. You could see the pride all over him!
They make the most beautiful babies. I mean look at that gorgeous head of hair and beautiful skin!
Their midwife Sarah from Serenity walked in right after he was born. I just love Sarah, she has such a beautiful heart and is such a gift to our community.
Their doula, Melissa was the same as their last baby as well, and their connection and the trust there was beautiful to see.
The cutest little moments unfolded as they brought in big sister to meet her new baby brother. She was a little unsure at first, and was a bit confused to wake up to a house full of strangers. Sibling meetings are some of my favorite moments to capture.
This is a great example of how unique each birth story is! Feel free to peruse other birth stories I have shared!
Thursday, May 9th, 2024
The Birth of Cormac Seth
This is the second birth I’ve documented for this family, and both times, I was so inspired and blown away by the intentional space this mother created to welcome her children. As I tried to think of a title and ways to describe just how beautiful their birth was, I kept coming back to Beauty, Light, and Love. It is the perfect way to describe the physical space she had created, the dynamics of their family, and their love for each other.
Jessica is incredibly talented and spent weeks preparing her master bath for her son’s delivery, and as she shared bits and pieces of it through the process, I got more and more excited to see it in person. The biggest fear was that she would go incredibly fast like she had with her third baby, which brings the risk of me either running in at the end or missing it entirely (always a major fear for me and my clients). Her last baby came so fast I arrived just 20 minutes before she delivered!
Birth Full of Beauty
Although her birth space was gorgeous, as you can see, what made their whole birth story even more beautiful was that her girls happened to be on spring break and all home as she labored, and so besides being surrounded by this lovely space, she was surrounded by her children, her husband, fantastic midwife (that has now delivered all four of her children), and her friend and doula, Lori(also present for all her deliveries). Their birth film is full of all the beautiful details, so be sure to check it out.
Jessica’s labor is the perfect example of just how unpredictable birth can be. Although moms tend to follow the patterns of their previous pregnancies, there are always surprises and unknowns. After all the worry about it going so fast and making it in time, her son’s labor proved to be long and steady. In fact it stalled out a bit right after everyone arrived (not uncommon), so she laid down and took a little nap and reset with her youngest, then got up and moved around with the girls; dancing, cuddling, and just loving on each other. That worked on bringing more oxytocin into play, and soon things were moving along again.
Full of Light
Not only was her birth space filled with beautiful twinkle lights and gorgeous candles, but she was also lucky enough to have a daytime birth, so light-filled all the spaces she was in.
She had hoped her daughters would be interested and engaged when she delivered but kept the option always open to them to come in and out as they felt comfortable and only when ready. They came in at different stages, sometimes individually, sometimes together, but always sweet and tender.
Finally, after some intense pressure and surges, she held her sweet boy in her arms.
Full of Love
I am so impressed by so many things about Jessica and her beautiful family, but one thing that is so obvious from the time you meet her is how much her family means to her. Her love for all of them permeates everything. After three girls, welcoming her first son added an additional layer of excitement and joy for them all.
Big sisters are big enough to always remember just how special this day was, and how they were a part of it all.
Birth is so full of beauty and story, no matter how it unfolds. I love that this family was able to create their own beautiful birth space, and hopefully, it inspires you as much as it did me!
Friday, March 1st, 2024
A Birth Story of Strength and Determination
I am excited to finally share the birth of Malakhai! There is no reason I haven’t shared it yet other than being behind on blog posts. The good side about sharing this powerful birth story, full of strength and determination a year later, is that often, the beauty present in each birth story becomes even more evident over time as families process and revisit not only the joyous moments but the struggles and obstacles they experienced in these transformative moments.
I was so happy when this family found me and asked if we could arrange a face-to-face meeting to see if we were a good match. (I highly recommend this when hiring anyone for your birth, whether it be your OB, midwife, doula, or photographer). From the moment they sat down, their excitement was so evident, and their connection with each other was so beautiful. We had a great conversation and were so excited when they shared they were ready to move forward.
They planned on delivering at Serenity Birth Center here in Las Vegas. It is a beautiful option for families and the only free-standing birth center in Las Vegas.
As her due date came and went, this mom stayed patient and committed to letting their sweet boy arrive in his own time. Finally, just a day shy of 42 weeks, her labor started. They labored at home with their doula in the early phase of labor, and at 0230 in the morning, I got a text from Dad saying they were heading to the birth center. I made my way there as soon as she was admitted and settled. She was in the active stage of labor and approaching transition (7-10 cms). From the beginning, their birth space was quiet and peaceful.
I was excited to finally work alongside their doula, Ednalyna of The Birth Tribe. I had heard such great things about her, and it was evident in watching her hold and support this family why she is so loved.
First babies are often longer labors, and although she had made so much progress before being admitted, the last phases of labor proved to be long for this mama. She moved from the water to bed to standing positions. She stayed committed to whatever positions would help bring her baby down.
It can be challenging for husbands and partners to see the struggle because it can feel helpless and hard to stay patient. The energy of every person in your birth space can feed into your experience, and an anxious person can feed into your energy. This dad stayed so calm, supportive, and encouraging.
The challenging part of this labor was that even though she was finally 10 cms and had the urge to push, her baby stayed high for quite some time. It was hard for mom to rest between the pressure and urge to push.
Between pushing, they tried just about every position imaginable. One of the most useful positions for bringing baby down as they make their final rotations is the toilet; in fact, in the birth community, it is often called ‘the dilation station’.
Finally, almost 18 hours after being admitted, her sweet boy was in her arms. I am still in awe of them both for staying committed and focused and determined to bring their sweet boy earthside in the setting they wanted.
This birth story will always stay with me and will forever inspire me because of their strength and determination. I am honored to have had the opportunity to share their story.
Friday, February 9th, 2024
As we close out 2023, it’s the perfect time to review the year!
One of my favorite ways to end the year in gratitude is to revisit all the sessions I’ve had the honor of documenting throughout the year, picking a favorite from each. Favorites change throughout the year, but in this exercise of revisiting images, I am almost always drawn to joy, love, connection, and sometimes the memory of what happened in the moments surrounding that image.
This is also the time of year I set or adjust my annual goals for business and personal growth, always with the desire for balance to ensure I can be fully present in both. My word of intention for 2024 is Present.
I believe it’s essential to evaluate each year as far as what has worked, areas I feel worked for my clients and schedule, and ways to improve and grow (because I believe we never stop growing!)
2023 was a big year for me, business-wise as well as personally. After coming out of a creative rut that lasted two years, I finally felt my creativity re-ignited. I believe it was more burnout than a creative rut, but either way, I felt somewhat zapped and often struggled to pick up my camera. In this reset, I found that when I make time for myself and feed my soul spiritually and creatively as well as my body physically, I come to you, my clients, refreshed and much more creative and passionate, hopefully providing you the best experience I can. I’ve built solo vacation times for myself for the last two years, and it has been an incredible way to reset. I will continue this into 2024 and am still working on how this year will look.
I’ll address things I will keep the same for 2024 and changes I will make in each of the services I provide in the appropriate sections below.
Births
In 2023, I documented 13 births, each unique and special. Six of those births were repeat clients. This year, I documented two families that have now trusted me with three of their birth stories! What an honor!
This is my second year creating a compilation of the beauty of birth. Here is 2023:
Birth Stats
6 home births, 5 hospital births, and 2 birth center births. Two were transferred to the hospital from home and birth center, and one was delivered via cesarean.
Achievements in birth for 2023 included being published in NAPCP‘s Inspired Magazine, being awarded first place in the birth category of Shoot and Share, and multiple placements in the birth category.
I also had a new website revamp, and I couldn’t be happier! Louise with The Autumn Rabbit has done it again (this is the second website she’s built for me). I wanted to emphasize my focus on birth photography and videography, as these are my specialties.
My 2024 goal is to continue to grow creatively and in filmmaking, focusing on continuing to develop my storytelling skills, applying to at least two competitions, and expanding mentoring other photographers in this incredible genre. I plan on adding at least five more birth clients in 2024.
If you plan to welcome a baby in 2024, please reach out! I tend to book out quickly and have openings in February, May, and August.
Maternity
I documented 12 maternity sessions.
Maternity sessions are tied with family sessions as my next favorite after births. It is a unique period filled with anticipation and the beauty of waiting to meet your new baby. Watching mothers open up and shine in front of the camera is the best.
In 2023, I added a few more beautiful dresses and gowns for client use.
In 2024, I will keep the number of maternity sessions pretty equal to this year; it was my happy place and ensured I had space on the calendar for birth clients. This year’s changes will be that my birth clients will get first dibs on maternity, fresh, and newborn spots on the calendar.
Fresh and Newborn
I photographed 5 Fresh sessions and 13 Newborn sessions.
I’ve transitioned into calling these sessions ‘Fresh’ sessions versus ‘Fresh 48’ because, as life goes, it isn’t always possible to get those Fresh sessions in those first couple of days whether it is a NICU transfer or families just needed an extra day or two to settle in. The purpose and goal of Fresh sessions is to capture all those sweet little newborn details and precious first days of getting to know each other. These days pass quickly, and those little details change so fast! They are more lifestyle in nature with minimal posing.
For 2024, planning to focus on birth clients while managing the schedule well, I will keep the same number of fresh and newborn sessions, with birth clients having first choice on availability.
I’ve added a studio option for newborn clients utilizing a shared studio space. This is great for families who don’t want to worry about their home’s appearance or the prep for an in-home session. Although it may seem like more work to have them in your home, these sessions are a great reminder of how this period of your life felt. Your home is where your memories will be made, and there is something so unique in that.
Families
I have had a dream and goal to teach and mentor, and in 2023, I finally saw that long-time goal come to fruition! I had the privilege of teaching my first course, Family Filmmaking, at Click Photo School. Their community was the first I found in my drive to become a better photographer and storyteller and where I have grown the most. Teaching a course in this beautiful community 13 years later has been the best!
In 2023, I documented 18 families, twice the number in 2022.
I loved that I could accommodate more families this year by spacing them out throughout the year. This year was definitely my favorite family season! I had so many returning clients and families who wanted to capture connections and personalities over posed images, and that right there is my language! My goal is always to remind you how this season of your life felt, and the best way to do that is to encourage connections and joy during sessions. Thank you to all the families who trusted me in these moments and with your precious families.
For 2024, I will take on fewer family clients to allow space on the calendar for increase in birth clients. I wish I could do it all, but with the weeks of ‘on-call’ time for clients and the unpredictable nature of birth, it just isn’t feasible.
Previous clients will have the first choice of available family session spots, and rather than having you choose months so far in advance, I will open the family calendar quarterly, with an email going out to regular clients first. Hopefully, this will help take the pressure off of you as well!
Thank you all for trusting me again and again with your most precious moments and most precious people! I am continually in awe that this is what I get to do. Here’s to an amazing year ahead!
Tuesday, January 2nd, 2024
Birth photography has become more popular over the last decades, and it is easy to see why. The birth of your child and the moments around it are some of the most emotional and life-altering moments we experience. Reflecting on such a momentous day’s emotions, strengths, and connections can carry beautiful memories and significant healing.
There are many things to consider when searching for the perfect birth photographer; I’ll share 6 factors for choosing a birth photographer and important questions to ask yourself and your prospective photographer.
Hiring the right birth photographer for such a momentous time is essential. Not only is the birth of your child a moment that cannot be repeated or redone, but it is also incredibly emotional and intimate. Although hiring a birth photographer based on price alone may be tempting, there is much more to consider.
1. Experience
In Various Lighting Situations
The first factor to consider is experience. It’s important to consider not only their years in business but also how much experience they have in the birth space.
Birth photography is a unique genre in that lighting settings and scenarios vary greatly. Mothers tend to labor in dimly lit spaces and various light settings, from home to birth centers, to hospital births. Your photographer must be prepared to walk into whatever space you’re delivering in, ready to use the available light, or be equipped with additional light sources such as an external flash.
Do they have a portfolio with strong and consistent work in various settings?
An experienced birth photographer will have invested in equipment that can handle low-light situations and be ready to use their equipment to the best of their abilities. Some birth photographers use an external flash in dimmer lighting situations and during face-paced moments, while others prefer to rely on natural light within the scene. Neither is wrong, but you may want to ask your prospective photographer which they prefer.
Within a Variety of Birth Settings
An experienced birth photographer will have experience in various settings, better preparing them for what may come next. They will have learned the best angles and positions within birth spaces to capture the moments most important to you. They will have experience with the different stages and phases of labor, helping them anticipate moments. They become masterful storytellers, able to see storytelling elements within scenes while using the best compositions to tell your story beautifully.
They will have developed a reverence and respect for the birth space without becoming intrusive or disrespectful.
They will likely have developed the skill of working seamlessly with others on your birth team.
How Many Births Have They Documented?
It is appropriate to ask how many births your prospective photographer has documented. Although we all have to start somewhere (and I am so thankful for the first families that trusted me in their birth spaces), experience does matter in this genre. You may know photographers with years of experience and consider them for your birth, but they may not have had experience in such varied and uncontrolled settings, which matters.
If you’re considering having family members or friends document your birth, there are many things to consider: where to stand, what to anticipate, best angles, use of light, and respect within the birth space. Hiring a birth photographer allows you to have family fully present in the birth experience without worrying about grabbing their camera or not being fully present in these emotional moments.
2. How Do They View Birth?
Another important factor to consider is how they view birth.
You may wonder why your photographer’s views on the birth matter and why they should align with yours.
It is essential that you feel respected and honored in your birth space. Every single person present within your space can have an impact on your birth experience. Are they aware of your wishes, requests, birth plans, and history? Are they willing to leave their experiences and biases outside your space? It can be tempting for others within your space to project their experiences onto yours, and although that may seem helpful, it can also take away from your own unique and personal experience.
Having a birth team that believes in your ability to bring your child into this world can make a huge impact, particularly when you may begin to doubt yourself or your own body’s capability.
For instance, a photographer who’s never photographed or witnessed a home birth may have some anxieties or hesitations, or a photographer who is only comfortable in a homebirth setting may give off confrontational vibes in a hospital setting. Everyone is entitled to their own experiences and emotions, but it is important on your special day to honor yours.
3. Professionalism
The third factor to consider is their professionalism in the birth setting and your community.
Whether you live in a small community or a big city, birth communities tend to be small and close-knit. Having a photographer who has worked hard to develop and foster community relationships will help ensure they are accepted and respected in birth spaces.
Do they maintain professional behaviors within different types of birth locations and situations and are aware of policies within the facilities in which they work?
In this genre, your photographer must have backup gear, just in case there is a malfunction in any equipment, from their camera body to lenses, microphones, and external flashes. Documenting moments that cannot be redone requires extra diligence in ensuring your photographer has all the necessary tools.
Do they have a code of ethics they work under? Do they maintain proper business licensure and carry liability insurance? Do they have contracts to protect you and cover any incidents that may arise? Do they present themselves professionally in all situations? Do they have strong connections with other birth photographers?
5. On-Call Experience
Another important factor to consider is their experience being on call.
Birth photographers are often on call for weeks (most start ‘call’ somewhere between 37 and 38 weeks gestation and remain on-call until you deliver). That means they need a schedule that allows them to be available and ready whenever your baby decides to come, whether at night or during a family function. They’ll abstain from alcohol to stay clear-headed and focused and understand the unpredictable nature of birth, ready to remain at your birth whether it’s 2 hours or 18 (or more). They won’t put time restraints on your time together and typically stay 1-2 hours after delivery to capture important firsts such as skin-to-skin, breastfeeding, newborn exams, family meetings, and tender moments. They won’t have a heavy schedule that may conflict with your birth.
Experienced birth photographers will maintain a strong network of other local birth photographers to ensure you’re always covered if they are at another birth or in extenuating circumstances.
A great question for your prospective birth photographer is whether they work with backup photographers.
6. Do You Connect with Them?
Birth is very intimate and vulnerable. Having someone you trust with such intimate moments is vital. Are their personality and mannerisms compatible with yours? For instance, if you anticipate wanting a quiet space, does the photographer’s presence and personality demonstrate that? Does their presence make you feel comfortable? Or, are you more outgoing and conversational and more comfortable with more extroverted personality types?
6. Cost
Lastly, cost is a real factor in such a big decision. You’ll likely find a wide range of pricing from photographer to photographer in your community. Finding a birth photographer within your budget is important.
There can also be a variety of what photographers include in their packages. Do their packages include any products, such as prints or albums? Are there restrictions on time spent with you? How are your images delivered? How long is their turnaround time for providing images?
Birth photography is an investment just like wedding photography, and in my opinion, even more life-changing and important to document. Trust me; you’ll want to remember all those little details: how you looked at your baby for the first time, those first cries and tender words spoken as encouragement in the moments you needed them, the way your spouse or partner looked at you, and just how strong you are.
Most experienced birth photographers will have developed their price structure with many factors in mind, from the costs of maintaining a legitimate business to the quality gear they’ll need to capture beautiful images in whatever setting you deliver. Many birth photographers offer payment plans before your birth, which is another excellent question to ask.
Saturday, December 23rd, 2023
