Photographing birth is one of the most rewarding things a photographer can do. You get to witness the most important event in a person’s life. You get a first glipse at another human being’s life. You may even know the sex of the baby before the parents do. If you are thinking about doing this as a favor or a job, there are some things you should know.

Midwives are cutting the cord.

Make Sure You Know What You Are Getting Into

There are reasons most photographers do not provide this service. First, it’s gory. Sometimes really gory. There are sounds, sights and smells that put off even the most involved dad and some moms would just rather sleep thru it. It’s not a good idea to do this if you have never witnessed a birth in person. If you have babies yourself, you have a good idea of what to expect. Keep in mind that it is different when you are on the other side. 

It’s on-call. Even if there is a cesarean planned, you really don’t know when the birth will happen. There is also no way to predict how long labor will take, even with experienced moms. 

There’s no redo. While this is also true for weddings, timing is even more crutial with birth. The baby will not pause for a must-have shot like a bride will.

Mom & Dad take a nap before the heaviest part of labor.

Mom & Dad take a nap before the heaviest part of labor.

Know Your Camera

Auto will not do for this situation. Most of the time, flash will not do. The goal here is pure documentary. You should not use flash on a newborn baby. 

Custom white balance and Aperture priority are your friend. Know your histogram. Bring several lenses, including a 50mm F/1.8. You will need a wide aperture for low-light conditions.

Keep Odor To A Minimum

Pregnant women are hyper-sensitive to smells. Don’t wear perfume, smoke, or eat smelly food. Don’t even mention cream cheese unless she does first. Which reminds me…

Get lots of detail shots. Shoot the entire story.

Get lots of detail shots. Shoot the entire story.

Bring Snacks

You don’t know how long you will be there, so bring some trail mix and power bars. Don’t bring junk food or anything with a strong smell. 

Prepare For The Unexpected

There could be a little poop. There will likely be vomit. Some mother’s have their babies underwater. Some have them in a special birthing chair. Some squat. Some eat the placenta. If these things make you nauseous, this task is not for you. 

The baby is born and immediately given to the parents.

The baby is born and immediately given to the parents.

Document Everything You Can, But Ask Questions First

Make sure you get lots of pictures of details, the parents will really appreciate it since their heads are spinning during the process. Before you arrive, make sure your camera is recording the correct time… this could be important for documentation purposes if things get real busy and birth notes get neglected. 

Find out if Mom wants you to photograph what she can’t see. Some women want everything, some would rather not know. Find out if she wants you to follow her around, or if she has a room designated as private. Ask these questions beforehand, not during labor. 

First looks are priceless.

First looks are priceless.

Be A Ninja

Blend in. If you are not the Midwife/OBGYN/Doctor, father or mother, you are a potential cause of discomfort. Dress (comfortably) to match your surroundings, be quiet and stay calm. If you get snapped at, don’t take it personally. It’s gonna be a rollercoaster ride.

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