Birth is one of life’s most amazing events. It is natural to want to capture it in images that can be shared and enjoyed for years to come. How should you choose the best birth photographer for you?
Ask your childbirth educator who she recommends. As a professional in your community, she will have contacts with others in the birth world. Your midwife or doula may also be able to give you some tips on who to look for.
Also ask friends who have enjoyed the work done by their own birth photographer. Seeing what somebody else has as memory from their precious birth will give you an idea of what to look for.
What specifically do you want in a birth photographer? It is recommended that you look for somebody who is versed in birth photography specifically. The darkness common in a natural birth and a mother’s sensitivity to a camera’s flash is something that an experienced photographer will be aware of and able to work with.
Not only do you want someone with good technical skills, but you want a photographer who is ethical and professional. Find out how many photos you get, who owns the originals and how or if the photographer will be distributing them to others. Finding out your photographer’s professional reputation for honesty and professionalism may be just as important as the quality of their work.
Taking the time to carefully choose your birth photographer is a decision that you will never regret.
