3 YEARS!
March 31st marked the 3 year anniversary of photographing births and also what launched me into the world of documentary family photography. I had no idea that my passion for photography mixed with my love of storytelling would become the truest form of my artistry. Not to mention the bond and relationship that is formed with each of my clients. They allow me into one of the biggest days of their lives and there’s just something about a shared experience like the birth of a child that bonds us.
My first birth experience in labor and deliver was daunting. I was thrilled and so excited to be there, but I felt like I was out of my element. At the time I was mostly shooting weddings and engagement sessions with a few family sessions sprinkled in here and there. Everything was photographed using natural light during the ideal “golden hour” just after sunrise or before sunset. But birth in unpredictable. You might get the call in the middle of the night or while you’re stuck in traffic on a Friday evening.
The last birth that I photographed was just a few weeks ago and I felt completely in my element. I didn’t even think about the light or my camera settings, it was just automatic. The intimidation that I once felt when entering the birth space has now been replaced with skill and creativity. With the rise and fall of each contraction comes the anticipation of new life and I get to be a part of it!
A few things I’ve learned along the way:
- Shooting a 14hr birth on the 3rd day of the Whole30 diet is a terrible idea.
- Never eat McDonalds at 5am on the way home from an all nighter no matter how hungry I am.
- ALWAYS, ALWAYS pack at least one sweater (hospitals are freezing and laboring mothers want it ICY in there.)
- Gum is mandatory for c-sections.
- Crying is probably gonna happen, especially if dad cries.
- My team of back-ups make this dream possible.
- The support of my family and sitters who drop everything to watch my kids or change plans on a moments notice are the true heroes.
- Births are my excuse to eat a honey bun from the vending machine, so always carry change.
- Don’t touch anything medical, especially if it’s blue.
- The best sleep is the one after a super long birth.
- The “birth high” is what keeps me coming back no matter how exhausted I am.
If you or someone you know is considering birth photography, I would love to send you my welcome guide with more information along with a free gift. Just click here and fill out the short form or send me an email at info@lanebphotography.com and I’ll send it right over.
Thank you to all my amazing clients, I love you all dearly.
