The Most Frequently Asked Questions of Birth Photography
FAQs of Birth Photography
As a birth photographer, I am frequently asked many questions about the process and unique nature of photographing birth. Everything from “What” birth photography is to “How” it all works. I love making sure all of your questions are answered so I thought I’d share some of the most common FAQs I get from families in the Dallas- Fort Worth area.
What is birth photography?
Birth photography is capturing your journey as you become a mother. It documents the presence and support of those surrounding you. It freezes time, allowing you to relive one of life’s greatest moments, the moment when your baby is finally in your arms.
It’s the pure joy on your partner’s face, the proud siblings, excited grandparents, and all those fleeting details of your first hours together.
What types of births do you attend?
I believe birth matters and that all births are filled with beautiful moments that are worth remembering. I proudly serve families throughout the Dallas Fort Worth area, hospital, birth center or home birth.
What experience do you have?
I photographed my first birth as a professional photographer in the fall of 2016, officially opening Kathryn J Birth Stories in 2017. Over the past 6 years I have documented over 250 births.
In 2020 I also became a certified doula to further my knowledge of all things birth.
What does being ‘On Call’ mean?
I go On-Call for all of my families at 38 weeks and stay on-call until baby arrives. This means I am available day or night, whichever birth day your baby chooses. It means my phone is always charged with the volume up high and plans are in place for me to be able to leave at a moments notice.
When Do you Arrive?
I stay in communication with you and your labor support team to help determine the best time for me to arrive.
My goal is to join you during active labor, most often when you are approximately 6-7 centimeters dilated. Not having cervical checks, no problem, we can use the intensity and pattern of your contractions to help gauge the right time for me to come.
How long do you stay after the birth?
Approximately 2 hours. I want to capture those precious first moments which often include lots of baby snuggles, the newborn exam and family introductions.
What if Baby arrives before 38 weeks?
If you are experiencing a high risk pregnancy or have other reasons to believe your baby will arrive prior to 38 weeks, we can chat about adjusting to an earlier on call time.
If you do go into labor prior to your on call time, I do everything in my power to be there. In some situations, this may result in a higher chance of a professional back-up birth photographer being be sent in my place.
What if I’m having a C Section?
Great news, lots of DFW hospitals are happy to welcome professional birth photographers into the OR. Feel free to reach out and we can chat about your intended place of birth.
I really do/do not want graphic images. Is that okay?
The type of images you want is something we will discuss prior to your birth. If you want crowning shots, great, if you’d prefer to keep things more modest that is awesome too.
Do you use flash?
I utilize whatever light sources are needed to obtain quality images. With your permission, I may open curtains or adjust available lights. If I do utilize flash it is very discreet, most laboring moms don't even notice it.
Do you share on social media?
I love sharing birth stories, but I happily honor requests for privacy as well.
What if you miss the birth?
To ensure I am available for your birth I only accept a very limited number of clients each month. In the unlikely event I am unable to attend your birth a professional back up will be made available.
How does the booking process work?
If you haven’t already, contact me to see if I have availability for your estimated due date.
Choose the best option for your family from a selection of birth packages.
Sign the Contract
Once you have selected your package, I will send over a contract for you to review and sign.
First Payment
Your spot is secured after your retainer is paid.