Frequently Asked Questions
What is your past experience with photography during your own births? My friends and family took photos and video of my first and second births. Even though I had maternity shots and newborn shots professionally done, I look back now and wish I had some more professional shots of my daughters’ births and just more photos in general to really capture all the moments of the labor and birth.
When should I book my birth photographer? I generally book only a few births per month to ensure that I am available for each one. It is recommended that you book with me during your second trimester. If it is sometime during your third trimester, I am still available to speak with you to see how I can accommodate your birth.
In which areas of Los Angeles do you work? I am available to work in the greater Los Angeles area, Pasadena, Glendale, Westlake, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Santa Clarita, Moorpark, Camarillo, Northern Orange County and Santa Barbara.
I live out of the Los Angeles area/state. Will you attend out-of-area births? I am available on a commission basis and am happy to discuss your interest. Travel and accommodations would need to be provided. Please contact me for further information.
I’m considering hiring you. What are the steps involved? If you are interested, I’m available to answer any questions you may have. I book several months in advance most of the time so, it is mostly important to check my availability. If I am available for your date, I will secure a spot for you on my calendar when I receive a non-refundable deposit of $500. At that time, I will send information about what to expect as well as a questionnaire so I can learn more about you and what you envision for your birth photo story. I will also send a contract as well.
Then, at 36 weeks, we can meet in person to go over all the details and I can answer any questions you may have. If you are having a homebirth, I like to see the environment and the rooms to get an idea of space, lighting, etc. I want you to feel completely at easy and comfortable with me when your big day arrives!
Do you offer maternity or newborn photography too? I do offer maternity sessions and like to shoot brand new-newborns either at the hospital or at your home within the first 7 days after the birth. This is often called Fresh Newborn photo shoots. I do like to shoot in a documentary, lifestyle way to capture the realness and authenticity of the moments.
Do you provide labor support, sibling support or other birth services? I am a certified doula and am available for birth support. My focus would be on the support for you as a doula but I can also take pictures as well. A fee for that is available upon request.
Can’t my husband/doula/nurse just take pictures? They could, however, they are focused on helping you and not on taking pictures. This may hinder them from getting great photos of some of the best moments. Having a birth photographer there that is focusing on getting all the shots and professionally documenting the entire process is essential to getting photos that will tell the story of that day and that you will cherish for years to come.
Do you use flash photography during birth? Generally no. I always use natural light and available light as flashes can be disrupting to the laboring mom and partner and newborn. As a photographer, esthetically-speaking, natural light, available light and non-flash photography is the most appealing to me. If needed though, I will use a flash.
How many images can I expect? Throughout the event, I may take up to 300 pictures. I do edit every image and will give you up to 150 edited images.
Do you shoot in color or black and white? I love black and white photos for birth photography and other photos as well, as it gives a timeless feel. I will edit the photos into black and white and will also offer some images in color, based on what I feel looks best for those photos. Newborn photography is typically in color.
When should we call you? It is best to call when you are in early active labor, so I can plan childcare for my children and get to you in time, before the labor advances and I can capture the entire story. You could have your partner/husband, doula, doctor or midwife notify me as well if you are unavailable; as in busy in labor. The earlier the better!
What if my birth is really really long? I am there for you for the entire labor and up to two hours after the birth. It’s okay, every labor and birth is different and I am prepared for long hours. I may take breaks when needed or go home if the situation warrants and I live close to where you are. Usually, I like to be there to capture all the moments and transitions through the day and night.
What if I require a Cesarean birth? I have usually been allowed to go into the operating room, although it is up to the doctor and hospital staff. You can advocate for me to be present with you. This is something we can discuss further when we meet.
What if I schedule a Cesarean birth? Even if you know you will have a scheduled C-section, it is highly recommended that you have birth photography! You can talk with your care providers ahead of time to let them know you plan on me being there to photograph the birth.
What if you get sick or otherwise can’t make it to my birth? If I am sick with an active cold or have fever, I could rely on my back-up photographer if needed. In the unlikely event either one of us could not attend the birth, you will be refunded your fee minus the deposit/retainer fee.
Are you going to post my pictures on the Internet? I will ask your permission to post some photos and give you a photo release to sign. You may also state specifics of what you wish to have posted or not posted, such as your last name or any photos you wish not to post. I keep the very intimate, personal photos private and only share those with my birth photography clients.
Do you offer gift certificates? Yes! If you have a gift certificate you would like to purchase for someone, please contact me.