Discussions on Birth Photography

The good news is, birth photography is getting more publicity, having been featured in a recent New York Times article, followed by many other media sources.

The not-so great-news is that it’s not always necessarily being portrayed in the best light (no photo puns intended!), or even factually, and the response from many commenters has been focused on how “gross” the concept of birth photography is.

Lyndsay Stradtner, founder of The International Association of Professional Birth Photographers, wrote a great post in response to this recent media and did a wonderful job expressing the true purpose of birth photography, the reasoning behind it and the part a birth photographer plays.

The Truth About Birth Photography.

There is much more to birth photography than the actual moment of birth. So much more. It’s the birth environment, the light in the room, the details, the comings and goings of those who are there. It’s mom holding on to dad in pain, the doula offering a supportive hand, the midwife making suggestions for pain relief and the OB preparing and helping mom push. It’s the baby placed on moms chest for the first time, the tears of joy, pure adrenaline, the cutting of the cord and babies little toes and fingers. It’s the first time a sibling meets a new baby brother or sister with a look of wonder and apprehension. It’s all of those things put together. It’s the journey of a birth day. It’s the making of a family. It’s special. And if a family chooses so, it deserves to be captured.

I encourage you to read her post, especially if you’re a future parent, but also if you’re someone who just can’t see the value of birth photography. It doesn’t have to be for you, definitely not, but it’s certainly not a negative thing or something that only divas request.

Another great post, written by Pinkle Toes Photography: Does this make me a diva?

Hopefully, all of this recent discussion will only serve to spread the word about the option of birth photography for those who hadn’t previously considered it. I know I’m excited to continue capturing them!