I have gotten some questions lately about birth photography. When someone contracts with me to document their birth, I am truly honored. Truly. Seeing your child for the first time is one of the most intimate moments a mom and dad can have. Bringing me along for the ride and giving me the responsibility of capturing the awe, the tears, the very first breath… That is a lot of responsibility! Photographing a birth takes my breath away, and makes me hug my kids a little tighter.
Do you photograph birth in color or black and white?
Birth is photographed in black and white. Black and white is timeless, new baby is not purplish, and it does not matter what hideous color the hospital is decorated in.
Do you photograph, um, the nitty gritty parts?
During the actual birth, I am situated by the head of the Mom’s bed. I snap away when the doctor holds up the baby for the couple to see. I snap away when new Dad is cutting the cord. I snap away when baby is placed on new Mom’s chest. To this date, I have not taken any pictures that you would not be comfortable showing your mother-in-law. I promise.
How long are you taking pictures?
I like to document the labor process. When you arrive at the hospital, I will spend some time with you. Depending on how far along things are, I will take some pictures and then leave you alone. I count on Dad to give me a call or text when things are moving along again. Then I return to document the birth and peanut’s first 45 minutes (or so) of life. You can also kick me out at any point. 
What else is included?
Included in the birth package is a maternity session and a “next day” session. A “next day” session takes place at the hospital. Mom and Dad can be resting in bed with baby, or older siblings can be coming to meet their new little addition.
What happens if there is a Cesarian delivery?
In this case, I will most likely not be in the delivery room. I can still be there to document Dad bringing the baby out to meet Grandparents and again when Mom, Dad and baby are reunited in the hospital room. I can spend extra time with you on the “next day” session. I can capture some of the moments that new Mom will miss, due to the nature of her delivery.
So I pay the fee for you to document this. Then what?
After the maternity session, birth and next day session, you will receive all of the images on a flash drive. They will be in high resolution form so enlargements and copies can be made at your leisure. I will also put together an online video-slide show that you can direct family and friends to view. The pictures will also be put in an online album with a password.
Are the fees refundable?
The fees are only refundable if I am physically unable to make it for the birth. This would be the case if I am out of state when the birth takes place. If I do not get enough warning to get there, or if new Dad forgets to contact me along the way, the fees are non-refundable. I would still photograph what I could, like a next day session.
Here is a video to a recent birth: (click the image)
If you have any other questions or would like to schedule a time to talk more about birth photography, shoot me an email.
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