Hiring a Birth Photographer (Oahu Birth Photography and Doula Services)
Photographing Your Birth story
One of the top three questions I receive in regards to Birth Photography (especially from soon to be Dads) is, ‘Who in the world would want to see these photos?! I’m certainly not posting these on our Holiday Cards!’
If you promise to keep reading and allow me to explain, I’ll tell you a little secret: Maybe you will post a few photos for family and friends to see.
But let’s back up a bit.
Whether you are having a hospital birth, home birth, c-section, a skilled Birth Photographer can capture your birth story in ways that you will cherish forever. Photograph by Teresa Robertson of Robertson & co. in Hawaii.
For some, Birth Photography may seem like a fad, or something new that is being offered when, it has actually been around for a number of years.
It was almost a decade ago when I was preparing to give birth to my second child. Another Photographer friend of mine (B. Billick Photography of Kentucky) mentioned the possibility of photographing my daughter’s arrival. I had never heard of the concept before but I knew I was in, always willing to try something new in the name of art.
The concept was fresh to both of us and with her living 6 hours away we weren’t quite sure how to iron out the logistics (my husband was in the Army at the time, deployed through the pregnancy, and we were nowhere near family or friends). I adored my OBGYN at the time and had no qualms bringing it up to him: “Would there be any issue with my friend coming in to photograph the birth?”
It was almost an instant, “Sure.” Then, “Wait...is this a friend you want in the room who will happen to take photos? Or are you actually hiring a Photographer? This definitely isn’t the time for that - you aren’t going to want to document what is going on down there.”
Oh.
Looking back, it’s certainly not as though I think his reaction is odd; this is a common first reaction to people who are introduced to Birth Photography. Having said that, do I regret not going through with it? 110% . In addition, I wish he had a little more confidence in me, my body, and how awesome the birth process was.
How I birthed my three children is another story for another time (hint: one of the reasons I began looking into becoming a Doula) and what I wouldn’t do to have that moment documented when my daughter and I saw one another for the first time. The expression of joy on my husbands face. How we smiled at one another when it was confirmed that everyone was healthy.
Birth Photography isn’t just labor and delivery - it’s also about capturing that moment when Mom meets baby for the very first time. Oahu, Hawaii Photograph by Teresa Robertson of Robertson & co. in Hawaii.
Things to Consider Before Hiring a Birth Photographer in Hawaii
Do some of my clients want every single detail - and I mean, ALLLLLLLL the details - of their birth story documented? Yes; and they are beautiful. But do I also have clients who simply want the labor and immediate post delivery photographed? Absolutely; and they are beautiful. The bottom line is, everyone’s birth journey is just as important and special.
Because there are so many choices, feelings, and ‘backup plans’ involved in birth, is one of the reasons I spend so much time talking with my clients before hand. We discuss comfort levels, birth plans, expectations, and boundaries. I also make sure your birth team - especially your partner - is supportive of my being there.
Whether you are new to the idea of Birth Photography, considering if it is right for you, or simply curious to know more, I encourage you to reach out to multiple people in the birth world, on your birth team, or myself.
Having a Birth Photographer in addition to the rest of your birth team allows you and your partner to focus on each other while laboring. Photograph by Teresa Robertson of Robertson & co. in Hawaii.
Have more Birth Photography questions?
I would love to answer them! Not even sure what to ask? That’s ok too. Never hesitate to reach out to a Photographer to simply discuss what your options are, how you may be able to work together, and see who may be the best fit for you. There are many of us who truly want to see you well taken care of and have your best interest at heart.
Simply fill out this form and I will be in touch (and I will NEVER pass along your info - pinky swear).
Teresa Robertson received her Bachelor’s of Fine Art degree in Photography and Fine Art Illustration from the Savannah College of Art and Design. After serving as a volunteer for several years with Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep, she became interested in Birth Photography and Birth Doula (DONA) work as well. She soulfully resides on the island of Oahu, is passionate about preserving the land and culture.
