Why I Became a Birth Photographer.
Have you ever been taken aback by the idea of a birth photographer being part of your special moment? Well, you’re not alone!
When most people hear “birth photographer,” their initial reaction might involve a raised eyebrow or two. But here’s the scoop: during the intensity of birth, especially when it’s go-time for pushing, about five additional folks typically swoop in to assist. Amidst all that, I’m just another face - albeit one wielding a camera to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments. Most moms don’t even notice I’m there - I strive to be as unobtrusive as a fly on the wall.
Getting the perfect shot—what I like to call the "money shot"—is my bread and butter. Want to capture that overwhelming joy when you first see your baby? Or your partner's tear-filled eyes at the sight of your newborn? That’s where I come in. These aren't just photographs; they're timeless memories, frozen moments of pure emotion and joy.
Unfortunately, not all births go as planned. I've heard countless stories from moms who, due to unforeseen circumstances like emergency C-sections, missed out on their first few precious hours with their baby. Photographs from these moments can help fill in the blanks, allowing moms to piece together and truly feel part of the experiences they were physically present for but might not remember.
That's why I always encourage expectant mothers to consider booking a birth photographer along with a doula. It’s crucial to arrange these services early, ideally starting in your second trimester, as we can typically only handle 2-3 births each month.
Personal Journey into Birth Photography
My personal journey into birth photography was deeply influenced by my own experiences as a three-time C-section mom. During my first two C-sections, I was partially out of it, under the influence of anesthesia and the overwhelming rush of emotions. It's a surreal feeling, lying there on the operating table, aware that one of the most significant moments of your life is unfolding, yet feeling detached. Afterward, I found myself clinging to the photos taken during those first precious moments—they were my window to experiencing what I couldn't fully comprehend at the time.
By the time my third C-section came around, I had a bit more presence of mind and freedom to attempt capturing some of those early moments myself. This experience solidified my resolve to ensure other mothers wouldn't miss out on their own birth stories, no matter the circumstances.
The Role of a Birth Photographer
As a birth photographer, my role extends beyond just taking pictures. I am there to document the raw, real emotions and events of your birth experience in a respectful, non-intrusive manner. Birth photography is about capturing the beauty and intensity of birth, the quiet moments and the exhilarating ones. It’s about creating a visual narrative of your baby’s first moments in the world and the incredible journey you underwent to bring them here. It's more than just a job for me; it's a passion fueled by my experiences and a deep desire to preserve these fleeting moments for other families.
The truth is, life's fleeting nature makes these photos priceless. They're not just for you but for generations to come, holding stories that will outlive us all. Remember, nobody is guaranteed time on this Earth, and these photos will live on, capturing the joy, the pain, and the sheer miracle of birth. They are not just pictures; they are stories, memories, and legacies. So, why not capture the beginning of your child’s life story with the artistry and empathy only a fellow mom and professional photographer can offer?