Overcoming the challenges of the Covid epidemic as a Birth Photographer

If I had to choose one word to describe the affects that the Corona epidemic has had on my work as a birth photographer, it would be RELENTLESS. Due to the nature of birth photography, I am usually booked consistently for a few months in advance. This has been the case ever since 2016, when I took over from Alda Smith (by the way -- check her out here if you would like to catch up and see where life has taken her. She’s certainly making waves in her industry, all the way in Ireland!). And then 2020 arrived in all its shocking splendour…

When lockdown was first introduced, I had to deal with the massive disappointment - both my own and my clients’ - that photographers were no longer allowed into hospitals. At the same time, I also had to come up with some creative ways to still offer my clients a way to document the irreplaceable story of their birth, even if it meant not having me in the room with them. By substituting certain elements of a birth shoot with additional monthly shoots, it was still possible to relay a meaningful and comprehensive birth story.

In short, I managed to brave the rocky rapids of lockdown by being as fluid as possible to accommodate clients’ wishes, while making sure they understand what my limitations are for hospitals. Whether that be for Life, Mediclinic, Netcare, or the midwives and private birthing options we have available in Cape Town.

The sun seemed to come out from behind the dark clouds when our hospitals started to regain strength and control over the virus. Doors reopened for us, and birth photographers were allowed back into certain hospitals. We had instructions on the use of full PPE equipment, had to follow strict safety precautions and had to change clothing in and out of the hospital. Of course, with hospitals being hospitals, every time I stepped into one to photograph a birth, I risked contracting the virus and infecting my family and friends.

But the ship needs to stay afloat…

Thankfully, my calendar filled up quickly, and I could feel a deep sense of relief wash over me. Unfortunately, my elation was short-lived… Within six weeks, we were informed that we were no longer permitted to attend hospital births.

And here we are…

This calls for another round of fluidity and creative solutions, starting with my current booked clients that have put their trust in me to make the best of a bad situation.

Prospective clients are understandably and rightfully cautious, with big question marks looming over what the situation might be like by the time of their impending due dates. I don’t know what this year holds, but what I can guarantee is that I will do everything in my power to communicate openly and honestly about the influence of the Here and Now. I will remain open and fluid to different creative solutions and how we can adapt your photo package and invoice accordingly.

There is no pause button on birth, and it remains absolutely worth while to document your unique experience.

Just as Covid has been relentless in painfully reshaping our day-to-day existence, I will remain relentless in the pursuit to give my clients my absolute best, my authentic self, while documenting the special memory of their baby’s birth day.

May you all stay safe and humbled as we journey forward in 2021.

Further reading:

A Covid 19 hospital birth | Charlotte-Rae

Becoming a parent during Covid-19: Psychiatrist mom shares some insights

Pretty in Pink: At home maternity session during lockdown | Bronté

Still unsure about hiring a birth photography? Contact me - I’ll be more than happy to talk you through any questions or concerns you may have.