All your Birth Photography Questions

Considering a Birth Photographer, but you unsure about the process and what all it entails or your husband is against the idea…

This post will hopefully answer all your questions and by the end, you will be able to make a more informed decision whether you would want a birth photographer or not.

Why do I need a birth Photographer? 

There are so many reasons, but to name a few;

– Memories: There is nothing better than looking back at your photo’s of the day your precious baby was born.

– Details: I am able to capture the behind the scenes details that you might miss. The eagerly awaiting grandparents, the loving touch of your partner and most of all the look of love and awe as you meet your baby for the first time.

– Spouse: Can concentrate on you and not worry & focus on taking pictures which could result in very special moments missed.

Due to the nature of birth being very intimate. How much privacy do we get?

My interaction is very limited due to the fact that this is such an intimate time. Natural Birth: Im pretty much always behind the scenes for natural birth. I give you and your partner the space that you need, while still capturing the special moments. C-Section: Before theatre, ill be with you in the room for a bit capturing those moments. I try to capture natural, unposed images because that is what the documentation of the day is all about. If a client specifically asks me for a picture of her & her kids and husband all in one, then I will ask everyone to pose and look at me, however this is very different to a normal shoot were I direct you on what to do. I try to hide behind a curtain and capture those candid moments, however this is not always possible with space limitations. I also discuss all aspects of the photo’s that I will be taking and if there is something that you would like to include/exclude we can discuss this and have a clear understanding of boundaries. 

What is your interaction in the theatre (C-Sections)?

I have very strict procedures that I need to follow in theatre, where I can stand, what I may photograph etc so I have little to no interaction with mom and dad in theatre. Im just in the background capturing all the moments that you might not see (like a tear from your husband or the way he holds your hand etc) and then most importantly the birth of your baby.  

What if something goes wrong?

If something goes wrong during the birth, I will leave the labor room/theatre until the doctor advises that I can return.

What happens after baby is born?

Once we are done in theatre, I will go with dad and if the hospital / he allows me to take the intimate skin to skin pictures I will be there for that and for the weighing etc. Then I wait for mom to come out of recovery and once you are back in your room ill capture the moments when you hold your baby for the first time and if requested some pictures of you breastfeeding him/her for the first time. Please note that the breastfeeding images are still very private and do not expose you in any way.

Are you registered with the appropriate birth photography associations?

Yes I am registered with Winelands Birth Photographers association (WBPA) and Cape Town Birth Photographers Association (CTBPA)

When can I expect the images?

I usually try to send one or two sneak peeks to mom & dad within the first 24 hours so that they have something to send to friends and family & share on social media should they wish. The completed pictures will be sent within 2 weeks from the shoot date.

What if you are unavailable or sick on the day of the birth?

I always have a backup photographer that will be available to take my place on the day of the birth so you will never be without images.

Why should I hire you as my birth Photographer?

If someone is passionate about something, it will show in their eyes & their work. I am extremely passionate about birth photography. When I talk about it I get goosebumps. A wedding is beautiful, but a birth to me is absolutely breathtaking. Im not a snap and go photographer, I walk the journey with you, assist you where needed and give your husband a helping hand if he might need one. I am a mother myself and I have experienced a c-section so I know what to expect. Having me as your birth photographer to capture all these precious moments is something you will not regret and would be an honor for me to share this day with you.  

How early should I book you?

As soon as possible. I like to build a relationship with my clients and walk the journey with you! I want to know about all the scans and see those bump pics!

Got more questions?

Do you have some more questions that I have not covered? Please feel free to get in touch with me here and ill get back to you. 

Need some more convincing? Here are some testimonials from clients that have booked me to capture their birth story.