Hello, friend!
Capturing births never gets old because each story unfolds in its own unique way. The strength of mothers during this incredible event never ceases to amaze me.
Being on call for weeks at a time is challenging, but the moment parents lay eyes on their baby for the first time makes every second worth it!
Birth happens once… there are no do-overs. As a birth photographer, I have one chance to document this moment, much like a wedding. With my nursing background, I anticipate each step, staying ready to capture every detail. Using a wide aperture and low ISO allows me to work in the darkest rooms while still delivering sharp, properly exposed, and focused images. This is where a professional makes all the difference – you focus on bringing life into the world, and I’ll handle the rest.
Don’t worry, mama, I’ve got it all handled. It’s all about going with the flow.
Photographers in the Operating Room
Many clients are surprised to learn that photographers can enter the Operating Room under certain conditions. My client, Gillian, ensured her physician and anesthesia team approved my presence well in advance of her scheduled C-section, allowing me to capture the moments she couldn’t see behind the sterile drape.
A Special Rainbow Baby
Gillian and Tracey were preparing to welcome their rainbow baby. Their first child, Parker River, was born at just 26 weeks via emergency C-section but sadly didn’t survive. To prevent complications, Gillian’s doctor scheduled her C-section at 36 weeks. After all they had been through, they deserved to have this birth documented to help them in their lifelong healing process. Being chosen for such an intimate and emotional moment is an honor beyond words, and I am forever grateful to my clients for trusting me with their most cherished memories.
Getting the Green Light
Gillian was wheeled into the OR for her epidural and surgery prep. Slipping into those familiar, uncomfortable blue paper scrubs felt strangely nostalgic. I hadn’t worn them since my days as an ICU nurse during the COVID pandemic. Tracey and I waited anxiously in the waiting room for 45 minutes before the circulating nurse finally called us back to witness the birth.
I’ll let the images tell the rest of the story, because some moments simply can’t be put into words.
It’s a Girl!
With Ed Sheeran playing in the background, At 1:13 p.m., Payton River entered the world, weighing 5 lbs. 9 oz. She announced her arrival with a powerful cry, and tears streamed down Gillian’s face. I can only imagine the overwhelming emotions in that moment… I teared up just witnessing it.
Postpartum
Two hours later, the family settled into their postpartum room. Baby Payton slowly opened her eyes and latched on immediately during her first breastfeeding session. The entire experience was nothing short of magical. A huge thank you to Dr. Shannon Hardy and Carly Goga, PA-C, for allowing me to document this birth. They supported Gillian through the highs and lows of her first pregnancy, and now I see why she and Tracey trusted them to bring their rainbow baby safely into the world. Working alongside such a compassionate medical team was an honor, and I can’t wait to do it again.
Baby Payton
A few weeks later, I visited Gillian, Tracey, and their adorable pup, Chloe, at their home to personally deliver their custom acrylic wall art. I surprised them with an in-home newborn session, and in just a few short weeks, Payton had already changed so much! Babies grow and change at an astonishing rate, and before long, she’ll be crawling, talking, and walking. These birth photos will only become more valuable with time, serving as proof that miracles do happen.
Hire a Professional.
Many parents tell me they regret not hiring a birth photographer. They wish their partner had been fully present instead of fumbling with a phone, trying to capture blurry, out-of-focus pictures. Don’t let finances stop you from documenting this once-in-a-lifetime moment.
I offer payment plans and work within your budget. Plus, all Birth and Fresh 48 clients receive exclusive discounts on print products: wall art, albums, keepsakes, and more, to complete their baby’s story.
Your baby’s birth deserves to be remembered forever. Let’s make sure you have beautiful, professional images to cherish for a lifetime.
