I've been getting a lot of questions from clients and from people who are interested in Birth Story Photography. Here are some of the common ones that I have been receiving so I decided I would post them so that everyone can see them. If I haven't answered one of your questions, please contact me.
Are Hospitals and physicians okay with you in the hospital room? It is imperative to ask the physician and the facility what their policy is with a photographer being present. Emory Johns Creek Hospital has contracted me to be their exclusive baby photographer, if you are delivering your baby at EJCH you only need to get permission from your doctor.
When do you arrive at the hospital/home/birth center? I like to arrive at the hospital when you are dilated to 5cm or 6cm. Every labor is different so we can discuss this during your consultation.
What if you don't get there in time? Labors can happen very quickly and some not so quickly. If your contractions start days in advance, I want you to let me know. I always like to be safer than sorry. I like for my clients to keep me posted on the status of their contractions because I want to be on location before your baby is born. If you do experience a rapid birth, I will come to your hospital to photograph the first hours of your baby's life. A portion of your session fee covers this along with the digital negatives. The remaining amount of your balance can be used as a credit towards future sessions and products.
What if I end up having an emergency C-section? Every hospital and physician has their own policies. I urge you to discuss the what if's with your healthcare provider prior to going into labor. The birth of your child comprises a little bit of the entire story, all stories are worth telling, this is your child's story and it's an important one.
What if I end up having a scheduled C-section? If I am notified within a week of the delivery date of those who discover that they will be having a C-section, I will offer you a refund. That being said, in this case it is far more likely you be able to get approval for a photographer to be present in the operating room as you will know the facility, physician, and anesthesiologist working at the time. Most importantly, just because you are having a c-section doesn't mean there is no longer a story to be told.
What happens if I go into labor in the middle of the night? When I am contracted for a birth story my phone is always on me. Call me. This is what you have hired me for.
When will I receive the images and the products in my package? Images, as well as the slideshow, take about 3-4 weeks to process. Albums take a bit longer, as these are customizable. Albums usually take about 4-6 weeks after you have revised your album for printing.
Do the images of my birth have to be used in your portfolio? Many people like to keep their birth story private, and I completely understand. However, I only use beautiful, tasteful pictures and I would never post anything that you wouldn't want me to post. Please discuss this with me prior to submitting your deposit and contract.
What if I go into labor weeks before or after my due date? I commit to being available 2 weeks before, and two weeks after your expected due date. If you go into labor before or after this time, I will do my best to be there. If you have your baby outside of the 4 week window and I am not available to attend, your session will then be transferred to a credit for any future sessions and products. Just to mention... I have yet to miss a birth
I'm weary of the idea of having someone I don't know that well in the room with us. How can I convince my husband that you won't be intrusive? Births are certainly an intimate and private experience. I promise you though, having a photographer in the room to capture all of the moments and raw emotions of your baby's birth is something that you will cherish for a lifetime. That being said, I would like to meet you and your husband before your baby is born. This way you can get to know me and I can get to know you and your idea of how you want your birth story to go.
I hope this helps clarify any questions that you may have. If you have more questions, please email or call me. I am happy to answer any questions you may have.