Ready to learn more about how hiring me to photograph your birth works? Here’s a handful of the most commonly asked questions —from your first consultation to your baby’s big debut!
Where do you photograph births?
I’m based in the Longmont, Colorado area and typically travel within an hour’s drive. This includes Boulder, Fort Collins, Longmont, Loveland, Thornton, and the surrounding Northern Colorado area. I am happy to document births at home, at birth centers, and at hospitals in this area!
What does it mean to be a certified birth photographer? I am certified as a birth photographer through two separate companies – The Beauty in Birth and Birth Becomes You. This basically just means I know my stuff! I know how to handle my camera in the birth space, I know how to conduct myself in a manner that is respectful to both you and your birth, as well as to your birth team. I have a deep understanding of the birth process, and I take this job very seriously! It is very important to me that I have these certifications to show that I don’t take this responsibility lightly.
What does being on-call mean?
I go on-call for you officially at 38 weeks. This means my equipment is charged and ready, my phone is on loud and with me at all times, my childcare is lined up, and I stay close to home. However, if your baby decides to come before 38 weeks, I will still do my best to get there as soon as possible! Communication is really KEY!
When do you arrive at the birth, and how long do you stay?
I personally encourage you to feel free to text me with mucous plug and “bloody show” updates, etc. any time you’d like. I love analyzing impending labor symptoms with you! The more I know about your progress towards labor, the better prepared I can be. Really truly I want to know about any progress leading up to go time. I plan to arrive when you’re in active labor—usually when contractions are 4-6 minutes apart, lasting a minute each, and following this pattern for about an hour. MY GOAL IS TO BE WITH YOU BEFORE YOU ARE UNABLE TO TALK THROUGH CONTRACTIONS, and before you get an epidural (if you’re planning on getting one.) I rely heavily on communication and intuition for the timing part. I’ll stay until 2-3 hours after your baby is born to capture the golden hour of bonding and the newborn exam.
Do you photograph belly births/cesarean births in the OR? The short answer is yes! I am happy to accompany you to the operating room if I’m allowed! If you are planning a cesarean birth for whatever reason, just talk to your provider about having me there to document before hand. If you need an urgent or emergent cesarean, it will largely depend on the situation whether I’ll be allowed in or not. The final say is left up to the anesthesiologist that’ll be working with you that day. The most important thing is for YOU to advocate for your photographer to be allowed in!!
Do you use flash during births?
Yes, I use flash in most birth situations, but I’m very mindful about it. The flash is bounced off the ceiling or wall—never directly at you or the baby. Most people don’t even notice it! If it bothers you, let me know, and I’ll adjust. I do also bring twinkly lights, flameless candles, and what I call my Northern lights to help offset when needed (or just to set the mood for you!)
Do you take video at births?? I certainly can! I am certified as a birth videographer as well, so I’m happy to discuss adding a film to your photography package.
What happens if the baby comes fast or you miss the birth?
Fast births happen! If I can’t make it to your birth because it happens too quickly, I’ll still come and stay to document the first few hours of your baby’s life. Additionally, I’ll offer you a Fresh 48 session the next day or an in-home newborn session when you get home.
Do you work with a backup photographer?
I work with a handful of experienced birth photographers who back me up when needed. I may call in a backup due to illness, an emergency, or overlapping births. We’ll discuss who my backup will be as your due date gets closer.
Will you share my birth photos?
Your birth images are yours, first and foremost. While I love sharing the beauty of birth, it’s never a requirement. We’ll discuss this during your consultation and again after I deliver your images.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes, absolutely! A $200 non-refundable retainer fee secures your due date on my calendar. The full payment is due by your 38th week, but I’m happy to set up weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly payment plans. If needed, I may be able to extend the plan beyond the 38-week mark.
Do you offer discounts?
Yes! If you book birth photography with me, I offer discounts on maternity and newborn sessions.
How do I set up a consultation or ask more questions?
Let’s chat! I’m here to make sure you feel comfortable and supported every step of the way. Feel free to email me directly at kylie@kyliebreephotography.com or fill out the contact form on my website.
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