Birth is Art
Dive into your story
Birth is Poetry
Dive into your story
Birth is Emotion
Dive into your story
What is Birth Photography?
Birth photography is about documenting the arrival of your baby, whether at home, hospital or a birthing center, delivering vaginally or a cesarean section. My focus is on genuine connections between partners and the love-filled atmosphere in the room. Labor can be a blur and while you think you will remember everything…. it's easy to forget. This is where a birth photographer freezes all the big and small moments for you, so you can relive meeting your tiny human for the rest of your life.
Meet the Photographer
Hi, my name is alexandria but you can call me alex
I am so glad to be considered for your next adventure! I’m here to answer all your questions—how, when, what, and even the “will you take a picture of my…?”
If you’re interested in birth photography but unsure if it’s for you, consider a Fresh 48 session. A Fresh 48 is all about capturing those precious newborn moments, plus you get the bonus of having time to brush your hair (if that’s your thing).
Why birth photography?
The video you just watched. That's why.
Biggest Fears
Will you see my...
This is a HUGE fear for most. I get it!
I avert my eyes during position changes and cervical exams, and am adept at using angles and space to conceal your most intimate parts.
During your consultation I will ask how you feel about that area. Some moms want crowning photos for keepsake... some do not... and that is your choice!
Will I feel like I have to perform?
When you are in deep, active labor (when I arrive), the last thing you are thinking about is the other people in the room. You will be focusing on breathing. You may catch the occasional camera flash or shutter sound, but a skilled photographer knows when and how to take a shot without interrupting the moment.
Will i look like a hot mess?
The reality of labor is sweat, flushed cheeks, deep breaths, and primal sounds. It’s messy, raw, and intense. You won't have every hair in place and by the end of it all blood, sweat and tears will be poured, but every image will be perfectly imperfect and I promise you will love them.
What if i poop?
You probably will. And that's OKAY! But you know what? The nurses I have worked alongside are magical and swoop in before anyone even knows what is happening. As an EMT, babysitter and human, I have seen, smelt and discarded it before. No worries in my book.
What is your presence like in the birth space?
I'm a fly on the wall
Having someone who understands the intensity and fear that can come with a birth space is essential. By nature, I’m a calming soul. I am gentle, kind hearted and a true friend. I’m highly intuitive as well —if you or your partner need words of affirmation, I’ll be there to offer them, that being said, if you need another support person I am there for you.
I know what it is like to not feel advocated for, and I know how to advocate for others.
Birth is Beautiful
My role is to document the raw emotion, grit, laughter, the quiet, the pain- the tiny details the weave together your birth story. The look on your partner’s face, the strength and vulnerability you feel, the first appearance of your new baby and that first touch…these moments that are never repeated again in the same way. This is your story, and your baby’s story- let’s preserve it together.
FAQs
Doesn't this bother you?
Not at all!!!!! This is natural. We were made for this! I think Birth is one of the most beautiful things honestly. I am also an EMT and in the Military and have seen A LOT. You would be surprised the sights and smells I have witnessed haha!
When do you come to the hospital?
When you start early labor, I ask that you contact me so I know baby is making their way. When active labor starts (when contractions have changed and you have to stop everything to breathe, normally around 6cm) call me and I will head your way!
What if my birth plan changes
I will do everything I can to be present at your birth but I can not guarantee it with all the new policies at hospitals (each is different).
If you are having a home birth, please check with the hospital you plan to transfer to about their policies on photographers.
If you are planning a hospital birth, ask your doctor and hospital beforehand if they will allow a photographer to document your birth.
Remember to ask if they allow photographers to document your c-section if things change
What if you miss the birth?
We all know that birth is unpredictable and so sometimes births can be missed.
If your birth is really fast and I miss through no fault of my own, I will still come to your birth room and document your first moments as a changed family and capture your first hours with the baby.
If, for any reason,I am unable to make the birth, and you have communicated with us throughout the laboring process, all fees paid to date will be converted into a Fresh 48 session or family session at your discretion. This conversion will equal a similar amount to the amount paid.
Do I need to wax or shave?
Do whatever makes you feel comfortable! I absolutely do not care about hair down there. I do have clients asking about trims and waxes and I HIGHLY recommend Hailee from Star Esthetics! She is my waxer and does an AMAZING job. She uses soft wax and is experienced with pregnant mamas!
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes! I offer custom payment plans ranging from every week to every month. I require a $300 nonrefundable retainer. The full payment must be paid by 37 weeks.
Why is this more expensive than a normal session?
1. You have a professional photographer on call for you from 38 weeks to 42 weeks of pregnancy. On call life means I will be sacrificing late nights and changing plans around REAL fast in order to make your birth.
2. Each birth is different and comes with varying time frames. I could be at your birth anywhere from 2 to 40 hours.
3. Camera equipment. I've got top-line equipment to help make your photos the best they can be. Nothing will stop me from getting your photos.
4. Not only am I documenting your birth, but I spend close to 15-20 hrs editing and making sure your photos are the best.
Do you share all births on social media?
While I love sharing empowering birth images on social media and my website, I always respect my client’s wishes if they wish to keep their story private.
The images that families allow me to share are what led you to find me and by sharing your gorgeous stories, we are changing the way our culture views birth. Once hired, I will send you a questionnaire that will outline what you would like or not like for me to share.
I will always respect your wishes.
How far in advance should I book?
I can only take a certain number of births each month in order to ensure that we can be present for your little one's arrival so it's a good idea to book at least a few months in advance.
what should i pack
in my bag?
Alright, hear me out—I'm not saying you have to be in clothes at all, but having some coverage will allow you to share more of your birth photos. For some, covering up can help them feel more comfortable and secure during labor. Ultimately, your birth experience should be all about what makes YOU feel the most at ease.
The more your labor progresses, the less you will care. No matter what you are wearing, you will get amazing photos.
Overall, remember that these are only recommendations. YOU are the one giving birth, so what YOU want is what matters. Everyone is unique and has different preferences. What matters is that you feel comfortable and confidant during your labor and delivery.
What to wear
Focus on comfortable and practical clothing that allows freedom of movement and won't distract from the natural beauty of the labor and birth process. Solid, simple colors look timeless in photos over those with bright colors, patterns, or clothing with words or logos
- You want a dark bra, because if it gets wet as you are laboring in the shower or birthing tub, the wet spots are less visible.
- You want more modest photos, and no nipples showing.
- Wear a nursing bra or a bra that unhooks in the back. If you wear a sports bra, it can be difficult to get it off for nursing later on, especially if you need to pull it over your head to remove it.
On the other hand, bright colored bras can contrast birthing tubs creating a very creative composition
Hair & Makeup
Nice nails look amazing in birth photos. Unsurprisingly, you end up getting a lot of photos of you holding your baby, and so if you nails look good, it makes the photos even more beautiful. You can’t control your hair and makeup because you don’t know when you are going in for labor, but you can control the manicure!
Speaking of makeup, don’t even try to put on mascara. Even if it’s waterproof. You will look beautiful in your birth photos. I promise. There is nothing more beautiful than a mama holding her new baby for the first time!
If you have someone able to, ask for French braids! This will keep your hair from falling in your face or getting tangled from laying down. A messy bun will work but they fall out easily.
Jewlery
Meaningful jewelry.
You don’t want to be wearing bulky jewelry as you will either be wet from a shower/birthing tub or sweating while laboring. Smaller jewelry is acceptable. Think pearl earrings, or a small golden necklace your partner gave you as a gift.
I also don't recommend wearing smart watches. While you certainly CAN, I think that it can take away from the timelessness of your photos. These are your photos and if you want to use your watch you certainly can!
WHAT SHOULD MY PARTNER WEAR?
If you want something that is classic and timeless, I recommend a soft, plain t-shirt and jeans
These photos will be passed down for generations, so remember that when choosing your outfits.
Items I don't recommend Wearing
Hair Ties (on your wrist)
Smart Watches
Makeup (it all smears)
Hats (Leave shadows on your face)
Bright colors, Patterns, Words or Logos
FAQ
Why water birth?
In 2014, the Journal of midwifery found participants who labored in water
-reported increased satisfaction with pain relief
-had a lower rate of severe tears & episiotomy
-had a reduced rate of post-partum hemorrhage
-had increased satisfaction with overall experience of childbirth
The warm water can promote relaxation and reduce stress, making labor more comfortable.
From a photography perspective, Birthing tubs offer a visually stunning setting for labor while also providing some coverage. The sides of the tub are perfect for leaning over, allowing you to focus on your breath and movement. The buoyant water makes it easier for you to move freely. Most tubs are spacious enough for your partner to join you, offering support or even helping catch your baby.
Birthing in water is one of the gentlest ways for your baby to transition into the world—from amniotic fluid to water, and then into your loving arms.
In my packages I offer in home sessions... why?
Let’s celebrate the couch where you spent countless hours breastfeeding, or that blanket that cuddled you both to sleep. The coffee mug that got you through the day or the shirt that you basically lived in for 2 months.
These moments mean everything. They come together to tell the story of your life—the journey of motherhood, from pregnancy to birth and beyond—and I’m here to help you preserve it all.
Shooting in your home personalizes your photos and your experience so much more. This allows each client to have truly one of a kind photos.
Of course I understand the hassle that comes along with that. I offer studio as an upgrade to all packages because hey.... sometimes there a pile of dishes that's eyeing you down. Studios allow you to pick specifically what you want your surrounding to look like without the hassle of making your home perfect. FYI I don't care about perfection. Homes are to be lived in.
