I think all of my clients had sticker shock when they first inquired about Birth photography. And I understand because it’s a large sum of money for something that is wholly unpredictable. But I would love for a moment to discuss what it means to be on call as a birth photographer….

You are not only purchasing my artistic expertise.

You are purchasing my life.

My 24/7.

Being on call means: At least four weeks of a phone charged with the sound on as loud as possible, as well as my husband’s phone. All decisions are made with thought around your birth. My need for alternative plans. My plans always potentially being interrupted to serve you.

You are also purchasing my limitations. I don’t go out much, but when I do, I like to have a cocktail or a glass of wine. But not if I’m on call for birth. And even going out at all, I avoid going anywhere if it is more than an hour away. When I’m out running errands, I have to be mindful if I have reliable cell phone service.

You are also purchasing unlimited hours of my time. And those hours may begin at 2 am, 6 am, or 10 pm. Birth photography is the only type of session that has no set time. How do you price for that? I have to decide what I can live with and pay my bills but what is still affordable for all the sweet mamas who want a birth photographer. And take into consideration what missing some of my own significant moments is worth.

And please don’t misunderstand, I’m not complaining. This is just reality.

I’ve invested in your birth. You’ve invested in supporting my family, having an experienced back-up if something were to happen to me, making sure I have a reliable car and backup equipment so nothing prevents me from documenting one of the biggest days of your life. And trust me when I say, it’s worth it. For both of us.