A Mom's Story: Having a Birth Photographer at the Birth of My Baby
There is something extraordinary about looking back at your birth photographs and seeing moments you did not even know were happening. Moments of strength, of love, of support — captured forever because someone was there whose sole purpose was to document them.
This is one mom’s story of discovering birth photography and why it changed everything for her.
An Unplanned Beginning
After an unplanned emergency caesarean section with her first baby, she had no idea birth photographers even existed. She was uninformed about her birth options and looking back, wishes she had known more about what was available to her.
With her second pregnancy she was determined to do things differently.
Discovering VBAC and a Whole New World of Birth Support
After doing her research she discovered that a VBAC — vaginal delivery after caesarean — could be an option for her. She also discovered midwives, doulas and antenatal classes for the first time.
“Signing up for antenatal classes was the best decision I could have made. It included and informed my husband on what my body was going through during labour and birth. It gave him the facts and that knowledge gave him confidence in trusting the birth process. When labour started he knew exactly what I needed. He was the best birthing partner I could have asked for.”
Choosing a Birth Photographer
After seeing birth photography for the first time — the images, the raw emotion, the moments caught in between — she knew immediately that she wanted this for her birth.
“My birth photographer provided me with photos of moments I was not even aware had happened. I was able to see my husband in full supportive mode while I was battling through contractions. I was able to witness myself step into my power. Without someone there whose sole purpose was to capture these special moments I would never have known how strong I was and how precious it all was.”
Today she looks back overwhelmed with gratitude — for the opportunity to do things differently and for the birth photographer who captured every moment she would otherwise have missed.
Your Story Deserves to Be Told Too
Every birth is unique. Every family deserves to have their story documented by a skilled, compassionate and SABPA accredited birth photographer who understands the privilege of being in that space.
Find a SABPA accredited birth photographer near you
Do you have a birth photography story you would like to share? SABPA is looking for real moms who would like to be featured in our Real Birth Stories series. If you would like to share your experience and inspire other expectant parents, please get in touch at info@sabirthphotographers.com — we would love to hear from you.