Witnessing birth and being able to capture those first moments of life is one of the biggest privilege’s I think you can have as a photographer.
People often ask what birth photography is, and in truth birth photography can be, simply, whatever you want it to be. It doesn’t matter whether you are planning a cesarean section birth or a free birth in the woods, I capture the moments you want me to capture. It is about the connections and the emotions as much as the physical act of birth, and the celebration of your little one making their entrance into the world.
How it works
Before
It is essential that you decide that I am the right photographer for you. It is your birth and it is important to ensure that we feel totally at ease with each other. So before booking I ask that we ‘meet’ via a video call and get to know each other a little.
Once I am booked, we will have a pre-birth consultation, where we will talk through your birth plan and about images which you would and would not like captured. I cannot tell you how many images I will take as every birth is different. I believe in maintaining the sanctity of your birth and getting quality images, rather than quantity.
Once everything is in place, I go on call for you from 38 weeks. If you are planning a C-Section, I will come to the hospital an hour before, and stay with you until an hour to 2 after the birth when you are settled.
If you are planning vaginal birth, I will come to you once your labor is established, and stay with your until an hour or 2 after your little one has arrived.
Birth photography is becoming much more common, but it is always worth checking with your care givers and hospital that they are happy to have a photographer present.
During
I do not use flash when photographing birth, so as not to disturb you, and so utilise the natural or artificial light which is available.
There is no limit on my time, I am happy to stay with you for as long as your labor takes, and I know from personal experience that this can take a while!
I will take a number of images throughout your labor that show the whole experience, paying special attention to any specific moments we discussed. Each birth is a dynamic and unique experience, therefore I work within the environment and situation to capture images that you will be able to treasure.
Once your baby has arrived, I will be busy capturing those precious first moments, until an a hour or two after, I will then leave you to enjoy your brand new baby.
After
You will receive access to an online gallery, with options to view, download and share if you wish, within 21 days of your birth, although I often get them to you sooner than this. I will also make sure you have at least 1 image within 24 hours for birth announcements. I never share any images to my social media or website without prior consent and agreement, I also have a full DBS check.
