You want to photograph what??

let's start off simple...birth.

Birth is such an amazing experience. It's beautiful and unpredictable, and it will most certainly change your life! Nowadays, it feels like birth is something that we are taught to fear...but we really shouldn't. Our incredible bodies were specifically designed to grow babies and to then birth them into the world. It really is amazing! And yes, I know what you're thinking....but it hurts!! And you know what, I'm not going to argue you on that because for me, it did hurt! What I've come to realize is that even though it is a painful experience, it doesn't last very long in the grand scheme of life, and it provides you with the most amazing gift (your precious baby...in case you weren't sure what I was talking about haha).

Anyway, let's get to the point here...

The birth of your child is going to be one of the most special and important days of your life. Much like your wedding, I'm sure! Most people have a photographer document their wedding day, so that they can remember everything that happened and how magical it was...so why not also document your birth? Now...again, I know what you're thinking, "But what about my privacy? Or, "Umm that sounds gross...why would I want to have pictures of that?? It doesn't sound very social media friendly..." I, along with many other photographers, am here to tell you that birth photography can be so many things. If you're more on the modest side, then your pictures can be too. If you're the type who wants to touch baby's head when crowning or watch with a mirror, then your photos can reflect those desires as well! Birth photography really can be for everyone (you just need to let your photographer know what you do and don't want).

With all of that said, here's a couple reasons why I wish I had a birth photographer for my firstborn:

- I barely remember any of it...I wish I had photos just so I could put all the pieces in my head together in the right order!

- I wish I knew what my expression was when I first met my little man! Was I happy, or simply relieved?

- We could have had a way better first family photo...cell phone pics are great, but I wish I had the best!

- All those little details! Birth photographers capture it all, even the minute details that you don't think you'll notice or care about...but you will when you see them!

- They're just so ridiculously empowering! as women, we were given the task of birthing babies...and it isn't an easy one. But, when you see how freakin' strong you were through the whole labor and delivery, you'll be constantly reminded to be proud of yourself and what you've accomplished! If you can do this birthing thing, you can do anything!

- Lastly, you can use your photos to teach others. You can encourage other women who are fearful. You can show your daughters, so they will grow up and embrace birth rather than fear it. You can relate to others who may have had a similar birthing experience, no matter what that looked like. (Having those photos can also help a momma mourn her birth experience if it didn't go according to plan,)

Are you starting to see the beauty in all this? I know I do...that's why I want to start doing birth photography myself. I love every bit of it! Being a birth photographer is no walk in the park, but it is such an honor. I will be invited into a momma's most sacred moments. I will be there to document, but not be seen or heard, It will be my sole purpose to capture all those extraordinary moments, while allowing the mother to stay focused and calm. It really is going to be quite the rush!

If you've gotten this far into this blog post, congratulations! Maybe you love birth just as much as I do (which means we should definitely be friends)! I also have a very special offer! I am going to be taking on 5 mommas due this year (2019) who want their birth to be photographed at a ridiculously discounted rate (I will also be doing the same for Fresh 48 sessions). I am so excited to start on this venture, and I know I won't let you down. I am passionate about this. I have finally found that specific career path that I would do anything to follow. So, if you want to go on this amazing journey with me, please reach out! I would be so over-the-top excited to be apart of one of life's most amazing moments alongside you. I am here for you, momma!