I recently came across a website "The Maternal Lens".  The featured photographers documented the labor and delivery process for families.  The images were amazing...all so filled with emotion.  I was so moved by their work, I have begun to secretly wish I could become a "birth photographer" as well. 

What makes birth photography with me different than another photographer?

I had two wonderful, healthy, somewhat normal and uneventful pregnancies...followed by one baby delivered at 36 weeks and another delivered at 31 weeks.  Both completely different experiences and both children were born healthy, just too early.  I never had the opportunity to have either delivery documented in the way I would love to capture for you.  I am a volunteer breastfeeding mentor for the Intensive Care Nursery at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and a member of the Intensive Care Nursery's Family/Parent Council. I am also a certified high school Biology teacher.  I am a photographer with a passion for babies!

Officially, I am going to offer the following services to my expectant families:

I will reserve time for you 1 week before and 1 week after after your expected due date (edd).

I will arrive about 6cm dialated into the delivery and stay until a few hours after your delivery.  Yes, I will be there in the middle of the night, day...whatever time it is.  I will be on call for you!

My goal is to be there to document everything that is happening, including ALL the little details that might otherwise go unnoticed.  I will show 100% respect for everyone in the room: parents, family, and hospital staff.  I will never use flash, this will make it much easier for me to be able to capture moments without flash distractions.  Since I will be photo journaling this amazing time, you won't hear me say, "Smile for the camera!!".

I will photograph every birth in a very discreet and tasteful way.  I will not photograph private parts, nudity or the baby as he/she is delivered through the birth canal.  I will be there to capture the first cry, the parents' reactions, and the moment you hold your baby for the first time.  I promise you will be thankful for having me journal these amazing images...ones that you and your family will cherish for a lifetime.

If you are interested in any part of this process being documented, please take a moment to contact me and we can chat about the process and your expectations.  I look forward to hearing from you!