Birth Photography 101

If you’ve looked at my Babies-Bellies-Birth portfolio I know you have some questions! Today, I will answer the most common questions about birth photography.

Why do you photograph births?

I started photographing births as a natural progression from maternity photography. A few clients found me when we were both pregnant and had the same home birth midwife. I was photographing weddings, and my background is documentary photography. They wanted something different than what was out there at the time. They wanted to feel something and were looking for someone who would do it with only natural lighting. Over ten years later, here I am still doing birth photography!

Why do you do natural light?

I photograph birth photography using natural light because I feel it’s a less intrusive way to approach birth photography. Flash photography is cool (if done right), but in the moment of trying to bring a human Earthside, it can be very distracting. Depending on your birthing environment there should be plenty of light available to make some stunning and timeless photos. If there isn’t enough light for what I need I will turn on a light that isn’t distracting to you, but most people tend to forget these days that professional cameras are made well and can handle no light situations.

Will I only get black & white photos or will there be color?

As you all know, I love black and white photos! It can be challenging for me not to include all black and white photographs in your gallery. However, I try to hold back a little and provide you with plenty of color options to choose from. While there will be a small selection of only black and white photos, some will also have color duplicates available.

When do you show up for the birth?

Throughout the process, we stay in close contact. Once you go into labor, I always ask for a quick text or call to give me a heads-up! After that, I will show up at your birth location when active labor starts and I’m in it until the end. You can check out one of my Instagram reels (click here) from one of my birth photography clients. This birth was photographed at Colorado Birth and Wellness, but I’ve done plenty of hospital and home births as well.

Can I also do maternity photography with you?

Your birth photography package can include a maternity session or newborn photography! I do have one package that includes all the things, but I’m happy to customize a package to fit your needs and your vision for this new chapter in your life! You can contact the studio for more details and I’m happy to chat over email, phone or coffee to talk about your upcoming birth photography needs!