Four years later: Parents reflect on hiring a birth photographer
Allow me to introduce you to two amazing people, loving parents and dear clients. Four years ago, in a twist of fate, I was lucky enough to capture their first born’s birth. Now, four years later, I had the privilege to document their beautiful now in a gorgeous outdoor family photo session in Cape Town. But before we dive into those stunning memories, read about both mom and dad’s experience at hiring a birth photographer:
I can’t believe it has been four years!
I was about halfway through my first pregnancy when my gynaecologist handed me birth photography pamphlet. Little did we know that this pamphlet would result in one of the best decisions we would make. I wasn’t familiar birth photography. I went and read about it online which really peaked my interest, however, how to convince my husband? After all, we would be sharing a room in the most vulnerable moment with a stranger taking pictures. With a reluctant yes from hubby, it was all systems go.
We met with the amazing Alda, who took us through the process. She mentioned that she will have to have backup birth photographers in case more than one of her clients simultaneously went into labour on the same day (which rarely happens). As luck would have it, the night our son was going make an appearance, that is exactly what happened: Another client unexpectedly had a c-section and my son was not going to wait on anyone (he is still very impatient).
I was well into my labour stages when in comes the lovely Kristen (how about that? First meeting in the labour room! Hehe!). With her calm demeanour, she greets and wishes us well, and then discretely took up her position. I can’t say that I remember seeing much of her thereafter - she almost blended into the room; she belonged in that moment.
In a peaceful dimmed labour room 00:17 our healthy boy made an appearance and not a single moment was missed! I must confess, my favourite images captured, are those of my husband’s face during the process, which you don’t often see.
We had a lovely heartfelt chat with Kristen in between, and I knew then why God allowed our paths cross. When I share the images/story with family and friends, I can hardly put into words what emotions it evokes, never mind what Cecil and myself feel looking back and reliving that special moment over and over.
Kristen is professional, warm and such a talent. More so, it’s actually her WHOLE life story that segments why this profession fits her like her glove - it comes from a sincere place... Her heart. I would encourage any sceptic to read up about birth photography and if moved, consider it! You will not regret it.
Kristen, you will remain a special part of our birthing experience always. Here is to four years and many more. Much love and God bless!
- Hermainne Thomas
Apprehension...
The word that probably best sums up my feelings about birth photography. At least it was. A foreign concept to me, and I felt that it was an invasive event that was going to take away from a very special, intimate affair... And to top it all off, our original photographer, Alda, could not make it. First time dad... I definitely was not too excited.
Fast forward... In steps Kristen, our back-up photographer. The gentle soul entrusted with capturing the birth of our baby. Apprehension starts to fade because she is just the right person. I don’t know how else to put it, she just was.
She literally disappeared into the background, but there was nothing “background” about the images captured. Four years later, I am so grateful for having agreed to birth photography. I’ve shifted from apprehension to grateful. Grateful for meeting and getting to know Kristen. Besides being an absolute professional, it is her person that makes the experience an absolute must for anyone considering it. Thank you, Kristen!
- Cecil Thomas
