Why Birth Photography?

When I tell people I'm a birth photographer I usually get one of two responses: 1. "Oh my gosh! That's amazing! What an incredible experience!" or 2. "Reaaalllly? Isn't that....awkward?". The answers to those questions are "Yes! It's one of the most amazing things I've done with my life" and "Surprisingly not". 

Birth photography is an incredible way to capture intimate moments that you might not otherwise remember due to the high emotions of the day and the fatigue that happens from bringing life into the world. While I go crazy over pictures of newborn babies in bonnets and baskets they don't touch my heart the way birth photos do. The gift of being able to immortalize your baby's first breath, see your partner hold your child for the first time and document the sheer joy of the day is something that my clients treasure and something I am privileged to be able to give them. 

Birth photography doesn't have to be explicit. No crowning shots are required and as professionals we work very hard to meet your needs of modesty and privacy. No pictures will be posted without your permission and we meet prior to your birth in order to get to know each other and figure out what kind of coverage you are looking for. 

FAQ:

1. Do I really want another person in the delivery room?

This type of photography is a documentary style. The photographer acts as a "fly-on-the-wall" and isn't generally an active part of your delivery. Their job is to capture your story unfold without much interference. Additionally, Im happy to fetch water bottles, nurses, and anything else that's needed so your support team can stay by your side. 

2. Will my hospital/birthing team be on board?

Birth photography is increasing in popularity and most area hospitals are familiar with having a photographer present in the room. Mutual admiration and respect means that your birthing team and the photographer interact in a way that makes the most of your experience. Always speak with your doctor/midwife to make sure they are onboard and if they have any questions send them our way! 

3. How far in advance should I book?  

We only take a certain number of births each month in order to make sure that we can be present for your little one's arrival so it's a good idea to book at least a few months in advance. 

4. What if I go into labor in the middle of the night? 

We are on call 24/7 surrounding your due date. If you go into labor at 3 am I'll be there. It may take 1-2 hours to meet you at your birthing location so alerting us to signs of labor (even if it turns out to be a false alarm) increases the chance that we will be able to make it to the birth. 

5. Are you willing to travel? 

We are happy to travel within 60 miles of Cincinnati, OH for births. Locations outside a 20 mile radius will be .75/mile, each way and will require consistent communication during the laboring process to ensure that every effort is made to make the delivery. 

6. What if you don't make it to the birth?

Every effort will be made to make the birth but unlike scheduled events babies often have a mind of their own and labor is unpredictable.  If, for any reason, we are unable to make the birth and you have communicated with your photographer throughout the laboring process, all fees paid to date will be fully refunded or converted into a Fresh 48 hospital session or newborn session at your discretion. Cincy Birth Stories cannot be held liable for any fees outside of what has been paid for your session. 

7. Do you offer payment plans?

Yes! We are happy to accept payment plans. Contact us for more information. 

8. How long do you stay after the birth?

We generally stay 1-2 hours after the birth to capture your family meeting the baby, first baths, and first snuggles. 

9. What is the deposit? 

A $100 deposit will be required to reserve your birth story. The deposit will be deducted from your remaining balance which it to be paid prior to delivery of your images. 

For any additional questions or to book your birth photography story click HERE.