Faq’s
You have questions. I have answers.
+ Why should I get a birth photographer?
Your adventure and your story gets to be documented – while you get to be fully present and enjoy the wild ride of birth.
It can also provide you with details that you might miss from your hospital bed. It allows your family to support you and not to worry about missing a moment. It ensures the little details are captured that someone less experienced might not think to photograph. It allows your husband or support person to hold your hand and be fully present. The hours of labour and delivery will pass just as quickly, and a birth photographer will make sure you have as many moments as possible captured.
+ Can we meet you before the birth?
Yes of course! It’s always a great idea to chat things over and make sure we’re all on the same page. It's also a nice opportunity to get to know each other a little before your birth.
+ What if I get hysterical? Or things get too intense?
Even though I am only beginning this journay of photographing births – I have seen it all in this career. And your birth is not my first job. Different women respond differently to birth and that's 100% okay! You can be confident that nothing you do will surprise me. Scream, yell, swear, ignore us completely, vomit, cry, beg for it to stop — it won't rattle me. I’ll be in my zone, while you’re in your zone.
+ When do we call you?
I’m on call (as best as I can be) from 38 weeks. I ask mothers to keep in touch with me via text if they feel like they're getting close. It’s great to know if the hospital has been called and what your midwife is recommending.
I can’t ever 100% guarantee to capture everything – birth is so highly unpredictable and sometimes things outside of our control can stop me from getting to you on time.
+ Do I need to talk to my doctor/midwife to see if they will allow a photographer?
YES! It is your responsibility to make sure your midwife/doctor AND the hospital will allow photography during your labour and delivery. You may be limited to the number of “support” people allowed with you. Please verify the official policies with your hospital.
There are some doctors and midwives who would rather not be in any images and it is our duty to make sure images are cropped or blur in respect of their request.
Please note that if any unforeseen event occurs that requires treatment or urgent medical attention for you or your baby, or causes the planned delivery method to change (eg. emergency C-section), I may be required to leave the delivery room for a period of time. But don’t worry… if this happens I will return to documenting your birth story as the medical staff directs. Your safety and your child’s safety is the most important thing!
It’ll just be me and my camera (no flash) and I’ll be a fly on the wall, I’ll stay out the way so I can document your birth journey as purely as possible.
+ I'm very modest and concerned about too much being photographed.
It's very normal to have this thought. But don't worry! I am not one to photograph entirely everything. Some mama’s want everything captured, and some don't. I’m a big fan of communication, so please let me know if there is anything you would prefer not be photographed.
Being in this space is an honour and I will be sensitive to your needs as best I can.
+ Will the images be flattering?
Although you may not feel your prettiest, you are bringing new life into this world and that is one of the most stunning sights ever.
You may be self-conscious about extra pregnancy kilos you've gained or you might cringe at the thought of a camera in your sweaty face as you push. But I will do my best to capture you BEAUTIFULLY. These aren't glamour photos, to be sure, but I’m very intentional about composing my shots so they capture your best.
+ What are the images like? And how many will I receive?
All images will be black and white. There is a lot of blood and many babies and mothers become quite blotchy on their face and body during birth so we like to keep our images consistent and classy.
The amount of images depends on which package you choose. But rest assured, there will always plenty.
+ Will my images remain private or may they be posted online?
Your images are just that — YOURS. It is entirely up to you who gets to see them. Some mothers are so delighted for me to share their beautiful moments on our social media accounts and website (which I’ll always be incredibly thankful for). And others would prefer to be kept private, either is all okay. They will never appear anywhere unless you've consented.
I will ask you this question throughout the booking process.
Don’t see your question answered? No worries, send me an email and I’ll get help you out.
Love Notes
