Frequently Asked Questions
Do you use flash?
I do and I don’t. Depending on the light situation where you are labouring, if it is day or night, I will evaluate if a flash is needed. You can request NO FLASH if you are sensitive to the light but it is important to know that in order for me to get images, I need a light source. I will also discuss this at our meet and greet but if i was using flash and it was causing you annoyance, I would stop immediately. Please note that in the instance there is no light, I will make small adjustments to the lighting in the space, gradually to overcome this.
What will you be photographing?
During our client consult, we will talk all about all the possible images I can get for you. For example, different stages of labour, support person and connection between you, birth of baby (crowning), first breath, first meeting, reactions to baby's gender, first feed, birth of placenta, the cord and placenta details, first cuddle with daddy, baby checks with dr, baby details such as toes, face, hands, and family time with siblings. I would much rather cover everything so you can decide on the images you want to keep, rather than skipping a few “shots” and you regretting later that you didn’t get them
What happens after the birth?
Once baby is born I will stay with you for up to 2 hours. This time is incredibly precious as the room is filled with oxytocin, love & the relief of your baby finally in your arms. There is so much joy to take in when you start to get to know your baby during this golden hour, these photos are absolutely stunning!
What happens in the event of a cesarean?
There is a potential if a planned or emergency is needed, the anesthetist makes the call when deciding if people can go into theatre. In my experience, you have the right to continuity of care. So it is important to know that their priority is the patient. If you let your dr, midwife & surgeon know that this is a support service you have paid, & you want my presence in theatre, then more often than not they will allow it. You have to be the one to advocate this though as it in their best interest to do what’s right for you & I will support you.
What if we end up having a traumatic birth experience?
I believe photos can help tremendously with processing your birth experience. They can help give you relief in knowing the process, help you understand why things happened the way they did & show you moments you may not have remembered otherwise - ultimately document photography tells a story, & your story is unique to you. The way you think things went may not be as it seemed when you view your images. It might take you weeks or months before you can even look at them but I have had so many families tell me how much these images have helped heal their hearts. I am personally one who holds the few photos I have close to my heart - they helped me immensely and you will never regret having images of your baby's first breath.
When will I receive my images?
Clients will receive a sneak peek of a few hand-picked images within 7 days of birth for your personal use. As I take pride in my work, I want to ensure I deliver the utmost quality work to you. This means I take my time hand editing each photo individually. You will have access to an online gallery of all your downloadable images within 6 weeks after birth.
When will I receive my birth video?
Clients will receive their beautiful birth video within 12 weeks. These can be anywhere from 2 minutes up to 6 minutes depending on the amount of frames captured. This is heavily dependant on labouring time through to fresh 48 exposure. When it comes to the music, royalty free music is chosen to fit the scene. If you have a song preference, it is important to know that not all music is allowed to be used without a special licence.
Will our photos be shared on social media?
I respect that this is a very personal time for your family & understand that you will share the birth of your child with your friends & family when you are ready; just as your birthing space is private, I also want to ensure you that your images & birth information will remain confidential until you have publicly announced the arrival of your newest member. If you are happy for me too, I would respectfully love to be able to share some images on my social media.
What happens in the event the photographer can't make it?
In the unlikely event that I can’t make it to the birth, I have a backup photographer on call to come for me. However, as soon as I go on-call, I am prepared. It is also important for you to know when to contact me. This will be discussed at our consultation & outlined at the start of this document.
What is my baby is born sleeping?
I offer bereavement photography absolutely free, if this was to happen after my client had book & paid, a full refund would be issued & my services would then be offer to the family at no cost.