First of all, congratulations on the upcoming arrival of your newest love! Documenting Birth is a huge commitment that requires passion and respect for the birthing process and I promise you I’ve got a whole lot of both. Below, I’m sharing a bit of my heart as well as answers to some frequently asked questions about why and how I document birth. Please reach out with any questions at all. I look forward to discussing all the possibilities with you!
Why Document Your Birth?
When people are asked about the most meaningful moments of their lives, most have the same answer… the day their children were born. Birth photography is foreign to a lot of people, and it may not be for everyone, but it has proven to be a priceless investment. These are moments that you will want to reminisce about and share with your loved ones and children for decades to come. (Not to mention you were likely too exhausted to remember all of the beautiful details.)
What Are You Paying For?
Birth documentation takes experience and a knowledge/understanding of the birthing process, a significant on-call period, limitations on booking during that time period and being with you in your birthing space for an unknown amount of time, as well as the time to edit and prepare your images for delivery.
Knowledge: I have documented several births, every single one different from the one before, each one extraordinary in its own way. I am also a nurse and a momma myself, and am very comfortable in birthing spaces, with bodily fluids (it happens) and with people in vulnerable moments.
Preparation: I have equipment prepared for different lighting situations and I always have a backup photographer available in case of an emergency.
On-Call Period: I am on call and available to you 24/7, from 38 weeks until baby is delivered. Because I am a mother myself, I also have childcare set up and available while I am on-call for your birth.
Peace of Mind: By hiring me, you can focus on laboring, being “present”, delivering and enjoying those first moments with your newest family member - and your partner can do the same!
Time: Every birth is different. I have been at a birth for less than 3 hours, and have also been at a birth for over 14. Being prepared to be away for an unknown amount of time is not easy, but it is absolutely worth the sacrifice. It is the biggest honor to document these moments for you. The long hours of this type of work take passion and dedication, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
What Exactly Am I Documenting?
This is strictly a documentary session and my goal is to document the natural, raw emotions of your story as well as the connection with your partner and/or family present. All of my packages include some time after baby’s arrival so I can capture your first moments studying all of his/her little details, all that precious skin to skin time, and baby’s first feeding. In my pre-birth communication with you, we will discuss modesty, what is most important to you, etc. Your birth space is sacred and intimate, and I want to fully respect all of your wishes. I am also always happy to step out and give you privacy at any time you desire.
How do Payments Work?
I require a retainer fee to book, with the remaining balance due the week before I go on-call. I am more than happy to work with you to create a payment plan that fits your needs.
Kind Words
“I cannot recommend Jocelyn enough as a birth photographer! She is SO talented in photography, but more than that she is compassionate and caring in the birthing atmosphere. Jocelyn was professional, but she was also warm and non judgmental. Allowing a stranger into the birthing room can be challenging. However with Jocelyn I felt completely comfortable and even supported during the birth of my baby. As far as the photos, WOWZA! Worth every penny. She was very active during the session and captured many hours, different spaces, varied lighting, and countless angles. I also love Jocelyn's style and artistic eye with editing. The way she captured the emotions of our birth will be a timeless and cherished memento. I am a huge fan of Jocelyn, and I look forward to many more years of sacred times captured by her!” - Sara, Birth Story Client
