Birth Photography FAQ

+ What is birth photography?

Birth photography documents the story of your labor, birth, and many of the other first moments that take place during labor & delivery.

+ Why hire a photographer?

Do you remember the excitement and anticipation the moment you realized that "Today’s the day!” The tender moments you shared with your partner as they supported you through each contraction and the look on each of your faces when you first laid eyes on your brand new baby. If you want to relive all of these beautiful firsts then you should have a photographer at your birth.

Your birth day is full of excitement and flurry and the precious tiny moments might be missed without a photographer there to focus on documenting the story. Let me focus on capturing you story while you and your birth support team remain present in the moment.

+ What if my partner is unsure of having a birth photographer?

I remember the first time my husband and I discussed having a doula present for our daughter’s birth. I was 100% certain we needed a doula and he was confident we could handle it. Long story short, we hired a doula and it was the best decision we ever made. My husband had the freedom to enjoy the birth of our child and not worry about fetching ice-cold washcloths or honey sticks.

+ How far do you travel and what areas do you service?

I'm open to travel up to 25 miles from zip code 84108. A $150 travel fee applies to distances between 25-35 miles. Please contact me for a travel fee estimate for distances beyond 35 miles.

+ I like the idea of birth photography, but I'm concerned with keeping things private?

Everyone has a different vision of what they want captured from their birth story. Some want everything and others don't. We'll talk abotu your what you're comfortable & not comfortable with before booking.

+ I don't want naked photos of myself on the Internet! You won't do that, will you?

I will not post or share any images without your permission.

+ Will you pose me? Or will you give us any direction to get the right shot?

Nope, no posing. You'll be too busy having a baby and I'll be too busy capturing it. All you need to do is be present in the moment and allow me to work my magic.

+ What do I wear for a birth session?

We'll talk about this in consult and more in depth as you your birth date approaches. Off the cuff, think textures, pretty towels, special blankets, etc.

+ Will you interact with us or mainly stay quiet?

I typically stay pretty quiet at births unless there's space for quiet chat.

+ Do you use a flash? What equipment do you have?

I prefer natural light, but let's be real here--most baby's love to come at night and with that in mind flash is usually recommended. You decide if you're comfortable with flash and we'll talk more about this at your consult.

+ How long will you stay at the birth?

I'm with you from active labor until and hour or two postpartum. You may add on an extra hour of time, but that typically isn't needed.

+ Will we meet before the birth?

Absolutely. We will meet at least once. I want to meet with you & your partner to discuss your wants, needs, and get to know you a little better. My hope is that by the time your birth comes we'll be more like friends, not strangers.

+ When should I book you?

Most families book at the beginning of their second trimester.

+ Do you need to get approval form the hospital staff or midwife to photograph my birth?

It's always a good idea for you to check with your birth care team to make sure they have no objections my presence.

+ When I go into labor, when should I call you?

Call me right away! I want to know when labor starts as labor progresses. The more notice I have to prepare for your birth the faster I can get to you.

+ What will you do if something is wrong with my baby?

I will continue to document your story unless I am asked to stopy by you or your provider. This is also something we'll talk more in depth on in person.

+ What happens if I decide I don't want you in the labor room with us for a period of time?

Totally fine. Just let me know if you need a moment and when you'd like me back in.

+ What if I give birth prematurely?

Sometimes birth doesn't go according to plan. In the event you go into labor outside of your on-call time please always let me know. I will do everything in my power to be there for you.

+ What if you can't make the birth or miss it?

Each situation is different and is handled on a case by case basis.

+ What about a scheduled or unscheduled C-section?

With permission from your OB and the anesthesiologist I can photograph all or portions of your C-section. Scheduled C-sections approval must be secured in advance.

Unscheduled C-sections might get tricky. Last minute permission may or may not be granted. In these situations, you must advocate for my presence if you want me to document your birth. Again, we'll go more in depth on this when we talk in person.

+ How soon do I get my pictures?

You'll have your first two digital images from your session within 48 hours after birth. Depending yon your session package it could take 6-8 weeks turnaround. Printed products generally take an addition 1-3 weeks for delivery.

+ Will my photos be in color or black & white?

Sessions usually consist of a mix of color and black & white.