The Birth photography experience
Relive the first hello
Relive the first hello
Imagine feeling the relief, wonder, and overwhelming joy as you lay eyes on your baby for the first time. You can capture these moments forever with a birth photographer.
Empowering Birth Photography
Birth photography isn’t just about photos of the baby coming out; it’s about documenting the profound experience of birth – the journey you take mentally and physically as your body prepares to welcome your child. These images evoke empowerment, love, and the beauty of your unique birth story. They serve as cherished reminders of your journey and the support around you.
Healing and Connection
For those who have faced birth-related trauma, these photos offer a therapeutic way to process and narrate your child’s birth journey. As a birth photographer and a mother, I understand the vulnerability of inviting someone into your sacred birth space. This trust is never taken lightly, and I know these photos will become cherished family heirlooms, a legacy for future generations.
portfolio
the birth gallery
birth photography package
What's Included
Investment starts at $1200+hst
- Photographer on call 24/7 from 38 weeks
- Backup Photographers
- Full coverage from active labour (6cm) until 2-hours postpartum to tell your unique birth story
- In-Person Meeting with you and your main support person
- Home visit prior to 38 weeks if having a home birth
- 5-10 fully edited sneak peeks delivered within 24hours of the birth so you can make your birth announcement
- All fully edited digital images that tell your unique birth story delivered in both colour and black & white.
- Personalized and Private Gallery available within 3 weeks of the birth until 3 months from the birth
- 10% off all printed products
- Discounts on maternity photography, newborn photography, breastfeeding sessions and The Baby Plan
To ensure your comfort and that we're a perfect fit, I offer a no-obligation consultation. Let’s capture these once-in-a-lifetime moments together.
the process
How it works
Meet & Greet
Schedule a complimentary meeting to make sure you’re comfortable with me in your birth space. Bring your partner if possible.
Booking
If you choose to proceed, I’ll send a booking proposal. Review the details, sign the contract, and pay the retainer to confirm your session.
Questionnaire
Complete the Birth Photography Questionnaire to guide me in capturing your birth story according to your preferences.
home visit
For home births, we’ll plan a quick visit to check the space and lighting to ensure the best photos.
balance payment
Pay the remaining balance by 37 weeks for peace of mind as your due date approaches.
on-call
I’ll be available around the clock starting at 38 weeks. Keep me updated on your labour progress and don’t hesitate to call anytime.
birth
Inform me when you reach active labour (5-6cm dilation), and I’ll start documenting your birth until 2 hours postpartum.
sneak peeks
Receive 5-10 edited images within 24 hours for your birth announcement.
gallery access
Your full gallery will be ready within 4 weeks after the birth.
testimonials from our happy families
"I am so thankful I had my second birth photographed by Melissa!
I often mourned the loss of memories and moments from the birth of my first daughter. Having my second birth documented (although it still did not go to plan) has been instrumental in helping me both heal from and celebrate Cadie’s arrival. I love to look back and remember that I was safe, supported, and oh SO JOYFUL to meet my jellybean.
- Dannielle G.
testimonials from our happy families
"Melissa is the perfect photographer to capture these special moments.
Before my husband and I had our little one, we knew that we would want someone special to capture one of the greatest moments you could experience. We contacted Melissa a couple months before our girl was born and we connected immediately! Not only did her photography capture the moments Kyle and I would cherish forever, but she was unbelievably flexible and accommodating in her schedule, extremely supportive and understanding and made the whole process full of enjoyment and love. Melissa is the perfect photographer to capture these special moments and we have been complimented by many of the amazing pictures we have of our daughter’s birth.
- Alanna & Kyle T.
testimonials from our happy families
"I can't thank you enough for this gift that will last for generations.
To be a skilled birth photographer is much more than knowing your way around a camera. Birth photography requires highly competent photography skills alongside a deep understanding and respect for the birth process. Melissa entered and moved about my birth space respectfully and gracefully while capturing all the elements of my birth story with mastery. She did this despite the dark lighting, moving bodies, and my quick-moving birth process. If you are even slightly interested in birth photography, just do it! This chance will not come again, and Melissa won’t let you down. Melissa, it was such a pleasure to have you as part of my birth team.
- Danielle B.
FAQ
Frequently asked Questions
How many images will I receive?
Since each birth is completely unique, the amount of photos may vary. You can expect anywhere from 150+ images from your birth. All photos are delivered in colour and black & white.
What if you're unavailable when I go into labour?
I have a team of backup photographers I can call on who are all familiar photographing birth. They would photograph the birth and I would edit and deliver all images in my style.
Can I still have birth photography if I'm having a hospital birth?
Most hospitals will permit birth photography. Please clear this with your care provider (OB or midwife) and the hospital prior to booking me. It is preferable that you get it in writing that they are permitting birth photography. Some hospitals will allow photography during labour but not delivery – this is generally due to liability. It is the client’s responsibility to find out in detail what is and isn’t permitted.
What happens if I have an unplanned or emergency C-section? Do I get a refund?
No refunds are given for unplanned or emergency C-sections. If I am not already at the hospital I will come as quickly as possible and photograph any photos prior to you leaving for the operating room. I will wait for your return and commence the postpartum photos once you are back in your room. Hospitals all have different rules when it comes to allowing photographers into the operating room during a C-section, but often the case is that only 1 support person is allowed, and that is generally the partner or main support person.
I absolutely want a crowning shot! Can you guarantee you will get it?
Due to the nature of birth it is sometimes not possible for a variety of reasons to get any specific shots. All clients will fill out an extensive questionnaire where they can include preferences on particular shots they want – but no shot is ever 100% guaranteed.
I absolutely DO NOT want a crowning shot or any shots of my x-y-z.
No problem – if you prefer that I do not capture anything below the belt that request will always be accommodated.
I would like birth photography but I’m scared that you’ll post my pictures all over the internet. I don’t want my most private moments displayed for the world to see.
Say no more! Your privacy is of the utmost importance. Any photographs that you see me share have been explicitly selected and approved by the birth client. I will never share your images with anyone or on the internet if you do not wish me to do so.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes I can create a custom payment plan for all clients who book prior to 30 weeks.