Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I hire a birth photographer?
It's a story of a mother being born, a child being brought into the world. It's the ups and the downs, the hard parts and the easy parts. There are so many details that a woman misses because they are in a primal state. Pieces that help make the whole process more cohesive. A reminder of smells, lights, support, the emotions of meeting your little one for the first time. You've worked hard for to grow and nourish a baby, and then you bring them into the world with such power. You shouldn't miss any small detail in their story.
When should I book you as my birth photographer?
I'm currently taking two to three births per month; I recommend that you inquire during your second trimester at the latest so that we have enough time to meet and discuss your vision.
Can we meet before I book with you?
Absolutely! The most important part of booking a Birth Photographer is being able to feel comfortable with them and bond in a short amount of time. I normally shoot newborns and families that I have never met before and very quickly have to build a rapport and make people feel at ease in order to make the most of their 60 minute time slot so I'm pretty confident that I'm easy to get along with! We can meet, together with your partner and chat through any worries or concerns you may have. Click HERE to schedule your complementary consultation. Another great option is to schedule a Maternity Session with me. You can get a feel for my work & shooting style, and feel more comfortable welcoming me into your birth space. PLUS, you can save $100 when you bundle the two packages together!
There are certain things I don't want photographed, is that ok?
Yes! Once you've decided to book with me I go through a questionnaire with you about what you want & don't want photographed. These are YOUR pictures. Not mine. I can be positioned so that I am photographing the baby's entrance into the world or up near your shoulder witnessing baby being passed to you.
Why does Birth Photography cost so much?
Birth Photography on average is equivalent to the cost of Wedding Photography as it is documenting a pivotal day in your life. The added and more complex parts of a job for a Birth Photographer come in being on call, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for up to 4 weeks at a time. In reality for me that means always having emergency childcare in place. On weekends, we cannot travel too far in case I'm called back or if we do, we have to go in separate cars. It means not booking a holiday a few months in advance. It means possibly missing one of my children's Birthday, a sports day, a school performance, a special assembly. Huge sacrifices for me as a parent. I also have no idea how long I will be with my clients -I've been with them for as short as 4 hours and as long as 27 hours and then I need to go home and edit (and sleep and be a Mom!) My passion for Birth Photography is my driving force but in turn my prices have to reflect the sacrifice. I offer installments to help spread the cost and some clients like to ask friends & family to gift towards it instead of buying baby gifts.
Do you use flash during a birth?
You're hiring me to take high quality images, and in order to do that I do sometimes need to use a flash. That said, I'll use a softer flash that indirectly bounces off the ceiling, not in your face. If at any time it bothers you, just say the word and I can switch to natural light.
When should I call you if I go into labor?
The earlier the better, even if I don't need to come right away. Please let me know as soon you feel you may be having contractions, even if you're not sure. I’d rather have extra time to make arrangements and get my family ready. I live in Burlington, so I can be most places nearby quickly.
What if my birth takes a really long time?
I'll join you when you are in active labor and stay with you throughout your birth, and then about 90 minutes after the baby is born. Don't worry about me, I'll bring snacks and take breaks when time permits. Let's focus on you and the amazing thing you're about to do!
What if I schedule a Cesarean?
I can meet you at the hospital and capture your VIP arrival.
While in the OR and if the hospital allows it, I will be right next to you and your partner. After the birth of your baby, I will take pictures of you and your family bonding and the arrival of any family members who might join you to meet your baby immediately after birth.
What if something goes “wrong” during the birth?
We will discuss this during your client meeting, but unless unsafe, I will continue photographing. Also, I will do my best to read the situation and trust my judgment, but ultimately you will be in charge of deciding whether you wish for me to keep documenting your birth or not.
Will you share my images without my permission?
Once I deliver your birth gallery, we will discuss which images you and your family are comfortable with me sharing on my website and social media. Even though the images are my intellectual property and thus copyrighted, I will always ask for your permission to share them.
How do I book a session?
The easiest way to book is by using my booking website (Click Here).
If you're still deciding, you can schedule a FREE consultation (Here).