Why Birth Photography?
I get lots of different responses when I introduce myself as a birth photographer. Some people have never heard of the niche before-they didn’t even know it existed. Some people can’t fathom why anyone would want photos of their birth. Some people are clearly uncomfortable with the idea.
Here’s the thing: birth photography is a concept that is new to us all. Before a decade or two ago, it wasn’t even a thing! Whether you’re thinking about hiring a birth photographer yourself, or you’re still not sure how you feel about the genre, here are some important things to know:
What Birth photography is NOT:
Birth photography is not strictly crowning shots.
As a birth photographer, I meet with each of my clients before they’re due and discuss their wants and wishes. A big part of this is getting a feel for what kinds of shots they’re comfortable with. I’ve had some clients that want to have all the nitty-gritty, graphic photos, and others who prefer to keep it more modest. Whatever you choose is great with me, and I’ll respect those boundaries as I’m documenting.
It is not invasive or overwhelming.
Your birth space is sacred. Being invited into that space is an honor, and I do my best to stay out of the way and blend into the background while still doing my job. Your birth experience comes first; photography comes second.
It is not limited to one type of birth.
Whether you’re having a home birth, hospital birth, or giving birth at a birth center—I’m there. Medicated birth, unmedicated birth, free birth, induction, or C-section. Each birth story is unique, and each deserves to be documented.
It’s not just for the moment of baby’s arrival.
I’m there to document the contractions, partner support, golden hour, newborn exam, and whatever else is important to you. It’s all part of your story.
It’s not for everyone, and that’s okay.
When it comes down to it, birth photography is a personal decision that might feel right for some, and not for others. Each family gets to decide what feels best for them when making plans for their birth.
What Birth Photography IS:
It’s telling your story through images.
The photos that I strive to capture are centered on connection, emotion, and empowerment. I look for the details that make your birth story unique. My goal is that, when you get those images back, you can look at them and be transported back to the feelings and emotions of your birth.
It’s less for you to worry about.
When you have a photographer, whose entire job is documenting your labor and delivery, it takes the pressure from you, your partner, and the rest of the birth team to snap photos. It allows the people who are important to you to be fully present and invested in the moment.
It’s an investment in memories
The birth of your baby is a once-in-a-lifetime event. Precious, powerful moments that you will never get back. Looking back through images from your birth can help you to process your birth and remember your baby as they were during their first moments on earth. Forever being able to view your birth through powerful imagery is a gift to you and to your current and future family.
