Birth Story Facts
Why should I hire a birth photographer?
The day you welcome your new baby into the world is full! It is one of the most important days of your life and it can become a bit of a blur. You and your partner will be both exhilarated and exhausted and there hits a point where everything moves very quickly. Having an experienced birth photographer in the room to document all the moments you might be missing from your hospital bed will help you experience everything without worry about it at that exact moment. This will also allow your partner and other family members to enjoy that new baby and support you and not having to worry about catching that perfect photo.
What types of images do you capture?
When people think of birth photography they might only think of the most graphic of situations. That isn't the case! As a professional, and a mother, I make sure to respect my clients level of modesty. We will always talk about this before the birth so we are both on the same page. I will use natural light during the process so I do not disturb you or your doctors and nurses with my flash. I will also document the labor process, your support team as well as the baby and their first moments. I will stay up to 2 hours after the birth to capture all of the extra first moments. Your gallery will be a combination of black and white and color images.
When you arrive how long do you stay?
In the weeks and days and hours leading up to your baby's birth we will remain in contact. I ask that you keep me updated on ANY changes that you notice or that you discuss with your doctor. This is an important part of the process as it helps me to decide when I need to leave to come to you. I will always prefer to get there early and wait than to cut it close or not make it. Living in Iowa things like weather do play a factor in travel so the sooner I know the better. I also have kiddos of my own and may need to make arrangements for them.
I typically aim to arrive once Mom has dilated to 5-7cm. Once I get to you I am in it for the long haul! Whether the baby arrives in 2 hours or 20! I will be there for you 100% so I might be sleeping in the recliner or doing some work in the waiting room for awhile. I will be sure to be there when its go-time!
Once baby has arrived I will stay for up to 2 hours to capture those first footprints and measurements and meeting big siblings.
What happens if you miss the birth?
Because births are so unpredictable and because I also photograph other things such as weddings that take up more time. I cannot guarantee that I will make your birth, but I will do everything in my power to be there. I do put myself "on call" for up to 2 weeks before your due date and a week following your due date. As I mentioned before, in the weeks and days leading up to your due date we will be in contact frequently to discuss any changes that are happening.
If for some reason I do miss your birth you will only be charged half, $200, of the session. I will arrive at the hospital as soon as possible to capture anything still happening as well as photos of your baby with your family.
What if I have a c-section?
If you have a scheduled c-section, it would be your responsibly to speak with your doctor about having me in the operating room with you. In the event of an emergency c-section there will likely not be time to discuss this with your provider. Some providers are more lenient on this than others. If I am not allowed in the room, I will resume shooting as soon as the baby is stable and I am allowed by the hospital staff to do so. I would like to stress that if it is important for you to have me in the room with you for the birth, no matter what situation, you will need to discuss all possibilities with your provider.
Do I need to talk to my doctor about photography?
YES! This is a very important step. Some hospitals have something you or I need to sign to be in the room with you during delivery. Some hospitals have rules for the number of support people you are allowed in the room. Be sure to discuss all of these details with your doctor well before your due date as these are things we will discuss during your consultation as well.
An important note, if there should be anything unforeseen that happens, it may require me to leave the delivery room. In this case I will remain close by to continue photographing when the hospital staff allows me to do so.
How early should I book you?
If this is something you are certain you want, I suggest you book me as early as possible! This will ensure that my schedule is clear around your due date and I will be able to make myself "on call" early on.
What does it cost?
The total cost for birth photography will be $400 ($500 if delivering further than 35 miles from Knoxville). A deposit of $200 is requested when you book with me. This will ensure your due date is solid on my schedule. The remainder is due 3 week prior to your due date. Your Birth Collection includes, on top of the photography, a 5x7 Simple Album to share the story of your baby's birth. All files from the birth printable up to an 8x10 size shared via online gallery. 25% off any prints you order through Adalily Photography
How far will you travel?
I will travel approximately 1 hour from Knoxville, IA.
I hope this FAQ page answered your questions about birth photography and its importance. If you are ready to book or have any other questions that were not touched on please feel free to contact me to we can chat more!