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.
Dad offering support in labor
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.
Hand in hand birth support
She needed him by her side, not being distracted trying to capture her laboring moments.
Seeing his son born
Having a professional birth photographer allowed dad to be in the moment. His support was 100% on her.
Dad’s hand on mom’s belly
In the early stages of labor, dad rests his hand on mom’s belly during a contraction. They are in this together!
Dad leaning down to kiss his wife
Exhausted and needing to shut her eyes, dad is right by her side.
Holding hands
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.
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.
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. 💗
So true! Births are also love stories between mom and dad!
Yes! Those moments are so precious and are so important to the story. Thanks for your article, and beautiful photos!
I love seeing photos of supportive partners in birth stories! These are beautiful 🙂
All. Of. This. What an amazing post, and beautiful images!
I love this so much and agree 100% with everything you said! Great post!!
I love my birth pictures. There’s no way my hubby could have documented the day like a professional.