It is something that has come up before when discussing birth photos. “Oh my husband can just take a few photos.”. While it may be possible for dad to snap a few birth photos, it’s not ideal. Having dad be in charge of the camera takes his attention off of a laboring mom. His attention is then torn between labor support and taking birth photos. Dad should be 100% on task to support his significant other in the delivery room. His role is part of the birth story. If dad is the one snapping photos, how will he be in them?
I have witnessed the most intimate, touching moments between mom and dad in labor. A dad leaning down to give forehead kisses, applying counter pressure, gently holding mom’s hand, embracing her as contractions wash over her body.
Some of these moments below, witnessed in a Spokane home, water birth wouldn’t exist today if dad had been in charge of taking the photos.
Had Dad been the one behind the camera, this part of their story wouldn’t exist. He sat by her side gently coaching her along.
She needed him by her side, not being distracted trying to capture her laboring moments.
Having a professional birth photographer allowed dad to be in the moment. His support was 100% on her.
In the early stages of labor, dad rests his hand on mom’s belly during a contraction. They are in this together!
Exhausted and needing to shut her eyes, dad is right by her side.
When contractions were washing over her body, holding onto him helped her feel safe.
These are just a few examples of why dad shouldn’t be the one taking birth photos. He needs to be IN them, offering his support. If you are interested in birth photography in the Spokane, WA and CDA, ID areas I would love to schedule a birth consultation with you. Please contact me today with any questions you have regarding birth photography.
Elise says
Well said! The dad is a huge part of the birth story and he should be documented too!! Plus if he isn’t taking the pictures, he can just focus on supporting mama.
Elise says
Well said! Dad should be focusing on supporting mama, not worrying about taking pictures!
So good. I agree; I think it’s so important for dad to have the freedom to be involved in the birth, instead of worrying about taking photos; that’s out job. 😄 Beautiful images, Laura. 💗
Melissa P. says
So true! Births are also love stories between mom and dad!
Amber DeCicco says
Yes! Those moments are so precious and are so important to the story. Thanks for your article, and beautiful photos!
Kara says
I love seeing photos of supportive partners in birth stories! These are beautiful 🙂
Kayla Gonzales says
All. Of. This. What an amazing post, and beautiful images!
Maggie Trice says
I love this so much and agree 100% with everything you said! Great post!!
Hilary says
I love my birth pictures. There’s no way my hubby could have documented the day like a professional.