Akron Birth Photographer | Dads and Birth Photography

Those of you that know me and my husband Brian, understand that he would do anything for me (and vice versa). He has supported me doing things that I love that he doesn’t necessarily share the same fondness. So when the topic of birth photography came up (No, I’m not pregnant. But I do like to think ahead!), I was super surprised how against birth photography he was! I say “was” because he has since come around, and I will tell you why at the end of this article!

I figured there are LOTS of apprehensive dad’s out there when it comes to Birth Photography, so why not address some of those concerns in a blog post?

1. I don’t take graphic photos of your partner’s “parts.” I’ve only had 2 moms ask specifically for photos of the baby crowning. But most people want images that they can eventually share with their child and show to friends and family. I’m not there to photograph the graphic parts of birth, I’m there to document the emotions of your birth story!

2. Hiring a birth photographer takes the pressure off you having to be the one to document those first moments. Instead of fumbling around with your iPhone while simultaneously rubbing her back and holding her hand, I will be there to capture the moments that mean so much to her. Even things you don’t even think to photograph, I will anticipate and catch!

3. I won’t be in the way! I promise! I like to meet with my clients prior to the birth to go over any concerns you may have and so we can get to know each other a little better! I know you’re worried it’s going to be awkward having a stranger in the room during your birth, but I make every effort to not be a stranger! When it’s appropriate to chat, I love to laugh and joke and help in other ways when I can (I’ve been known to even put my camera down and help fan or run and get things that are needed). I’m part of your birth team, and I’m always in your corner!

4. These photos aren’t just for you or your partner; they’re a gift for your child. Someday when they’re having babies of their own, they will be able to look at these images, and see how their father supported their mother in her journey to bring them into the world. They will see the first time you saw them, the first time you held them. Hiring a photographer allows your child to SEE how loved they were from the moment you first met them.

But don’t take my word for it, here are 2 of my dad birth clients that were sweet enough to answer a couple questions for me!

One thing that I often hear from dad’s regarding birth photography is that they worry about how they look during the birth, or that they need to be “on” for the camera. Here’s what dad’s I’ve worked with had to say:

Eric: You were discrete, professional, and managed to take up virtually no space in a crowded room. Have you had ninja training? Most of the time, I barely noticed you were there. I was a little preoccupied…Again, though, part of that might be related to your discretion.

Andy: The reality of the situation is that once the ‘”laboring period” starts, as a dad, your focus is 100% geared towards your family, so I really didn’t even notice that the photographer was in the room. I was myself the entire time. The last thing on my mind during Brayden’s birth was the fact that I was getting photographed.

Another concern I hear often is how intimate birth is, that dad’s feel like having a stranger in the room would take away from the overall experience. Eric and Andy weigh in:

Eric: Absolutely not. Again, that might be because you are our friend and we were glad to have you there, but it never bothered me at all.

Andy: I would have to say having a photographer present added to the experience. It’s amazing that we were able to capture the moment I got to meet my son for the first time.

So what made my husband change his mind? Well, it’s going to get a little bit dark here for a minute, but I think it’s important. We all want easy births and healthy babies, right? But unfortunately, that is not always the reality. I want a birth photographer there in case things DON’T go as planned. If something were to happen to me, or my child, these could be the last images I have. And I would want them to be quality photos.
If something happened to my baby, I might not want to look at the pictures right away, but I know I would want to eventually. I would want to remember them, how they looked, details of their little face and fingers and toes. Not a blurry iPhone snap. And that is what changed Brian’s mind. I know it’s sad and morbid to think about, but for us, it’s important. We will be saving up to hire a birth photographer when we have kids.

And on that sad note, interested in booking a Birth Story? Haha. If so, please contact me today: 330-241-9608 or email me at info@www.amandaellisphotography.com. Visit my Birth Photography page for more images and information!

Amanda Ellis Photography is currently booking Spring and Summer 2017 Newborn, Maternity and Milestone Sessions. Amanda Ellis Photography specializes in newborn, maternity and family. To see more of my work, please head to my website www.amandaellisphotography.com or visit the Amanda Ellis Photography Facebook Page.