Weighing the Cost of Birth Photography
Is investing in birth photography worth it in North Carolina?
Are you interested in birth photography, but you're worried about the cost?
I get it; birth photography can be expensive, and it's important to understand why.
Let's talk about it!
When I was pregnant with my first baby I desperately wanted a birth photographer. When I looked into it, and saw the price tag I was shocked! This was long before my true photography days and I didn’t understand why someone who seemed to have only on expense (their camera) could possibly charge so much!
I decided to have a friend come take pictures for me instead…except she had no idea what she was doing. She had a few babies herself, but when it came down to knowing when to arrive and arranging childcare for herself she was thoroughly un prepared to say the least. She arrived way earlier than I would have (having gained experience and training in this field) and because of this, she exhausted her childcare options and had to leave before my daughter was born…missing the main event.
I had a nurse take a few pictures (I have literally 2) but they aren’t what I was hoping for.
Disappointed, but so excited to have my baby in my arms I quickly pushed the thought of my birth pictures out of my mind. I moved a few weeks after having my baby (thank you military life), and lost touch with my friend who took a few pictures, I haven’t seen those pictures. Seven years have passed and although I still think about them from time to time, because of my disappointment, I understand it was in now way my dear friend’s fault.
In hind sight the pictures were important to me. I should have invested in them. I wonder if I had known all that goes into the production of the images things may have turned out differently.Disappointment surrounding your birth experience is a funny thing. Your birth story matters, and these little details have a lasting effect on your image of your story. That is why I am starting this conversation with YOU right now….(I’ll say it again) let’s talk about it!
Birth photography requires a specialized skill set and experience.
As a birth photographer, I'm not just a skilled photographer, but I also have a deep understanding of childbirth and the birthing process. Birth itself is a beautiful thing. I have spent a lot of time studying not only the “book smarts” side of birth but I have also studied the actual laboring women in front of me.I know how to work with low light situations, respect your privacy and intimacy, and most importantly, I know how to capture the moments that matter most.
Of course education isn’t free, but it is a cost I hope will serve my laboring mamas well.
Birth photography takes a lot of time.
Births can last a few hours or even up to a day or more. As your birth photographer, I'm on-call 24/7 leading up to your due date. This means a few things, my car stays gassed up (does anyone else normally have the habit of letting ti get to E…), I don’t travel outside a certain radius, my phone stays not only on, but on my person, and off silent ALL THE TIME. I spend time arranging on call childcare as well as having all my gear on me, and ready to go at all times.
Aside from all of the time on call, and preparing for your birth, I’ll often spend several hours editing and processing the photos after the birth to ensure that the final product meets my high standards and your expectations.
The cost of birth photography includes more than just the time spent at the birth and editing the photos.
It also covers the cost of professional-grade camera equipment, including cameras, lenses, lighting, and editing software. Additionally, as a birth photographer, I invest in ongoing photography training and education to improve my skills and stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and trends.
How much is birth photography in North Carolina?
The cost of a birth photographer can vary depending on experience and the services and products offered. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 for a birth photography package that includes digital files with a print release (which means the ability to print an unlimited number of images at the lab of your choice). If you want someone experienced and specialized in BIRTH photography your options in the area are extremely limited. Of course you can always find someone who will offer to take your pictures at a discounted rate, but know you often get what you pay for and experience is the key to beautiful imagery when it comes to the difficult birth situations.
Birth is a life-changing experience that you'll never forget, and having professional photos to look back on can help you remember all the emotions, details, and love that surrounded you during that special time.
These photos are not just for you; they're a gift to your child. They'll show them how loved and welcomed they were from the very beginning, and these images will be cherished by you, your child, and your family for generations to come.
I want to make sure that everyone who wants to capture their birth story through photography has the opportunity to do so. That's why I offer payment plans to make the investment more manageable. Additionally, I'm open to bartering services occasionally, so it never hurts to ask about these options. I'm committed to making sure that you can have access to the beautiful, timeless images that you deserve!
Birth photography may seem expensive, but it's an investment in preserving memories, celebrating life, and honoring the birthing process.
So, if you're considering birth photography, know that it's worth every penny and more!
