In case you didn’t know, I’m also a birth photographer! I love to document births by taking photos right there when the action is happening. It’s one of the most amazing, beautiful, and magical things I can ever get to be a part of.
I’m actually heading to St. Mary’s Hospital right here in Grand Junction in a little while because one of my expectant moms is heading there from Fruita to have her baby. I’m excited because we don’t know what the gender is! I can’t wait to capture the moment when we find out if it’s a boy or a girl.
In the meantime, I thought I’d write a little bit about how to prepare for your the photo session of your birth.
The first thing to think about when you consider getting birth photos taken is that it’s obviously not going to be your typical photo session. I’m going to go in there and sit by you as your friend, not just a photographer that you come to for your annual family photo. This is such an intimate event that I want to be there to support you before anything.
I’ll be in there for as long as you want me to be during your labor, following with the actual birth of the baby, and then the first hour of baby’s life. This is a truly incredible time for any parents, regardless of whether its your first baby or not. It’s always an experience that gives you the best reward you can have, a baby.
In preparation for your birth photo session
You only have to do a few things. Let your doctor, doula, and nurse know that I’m attending your birth. Also assure them that I’m going to be as little of a bother as possible. I won’t get in the way and I won’t disrupt this natural labor process. Most importantly, I would never get in the way to affect the safety of mom or baby.
Before the big day, remember to pack your bag with whatever important keepsake you want to be in your birth photos. For example, don’t forget your baby book if you want the nurse to put baby’s footprints in it and for me to capture that moment. Remember though, this won’t be like a posed newborn session.
Remember that while this is one of the longest photo sessions you’ll ever have, it is going to be as real as it gets. I’m there to capture photos of emotion, love, and the memories that come with giving birth. With that, don’t be concerned with wearing makeup or having the perfect nightgown for your session! Your only concern should be your comfort and the safety of your baby during it’s debut into the world.
Finally, if you plan on having me take your newborn photos, let me know during the birth so that we can schedule the photos to take place during the first 14 days of your babies life.
Your birth and newborn photos will bring you back to one of the most memorable times of your life – the birth of your little miracle. I’m glad that you’ve chosen me to be a part of it. 🙂
I’m currently doing birth photography in Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade, and other surrounding areas such as Denver, Telluride, and Aspen. I do birth photography in the hospital and I also attend home births. Contact me as soon as you find out that you’re expected to reserve your date. I’m also on call for birth photography but would love at least two weeks notice before the session.
