How to choose a birth photographer in Ottawa

Birth photography in Ottawa is a relatively new phenomenon, but it’s growing in popularity fast. 

Many pregnant persons are deciding to have a birth photographer capture their child's birth story, and for a good reason! 

A good birth photographer can help you remember the moments of your child's birth forever. 

But how do you choose the right one? Here are a few tips to help you out!

What to look for in a birth photographer

There are a few things to consider when looking for a birth photographer in Ottawa.

1) Take a look at their portfolio

Do their photos reflect the kind of birth experience you want to capture? Are their galleries consistent? Will they let you see a full gallery, so you know what your images will look like?

2) How much experience do they have?
Of course, newer photographers will typically cost less, and more experienced photographers will cost a bit more. Which is most important to you? 

Birth photography is a delicate art, and you want someone who knows what they're doing. Look for a photographer who has shot several births and ask to see examples of their work.

3) Meet in person or virtually and choose someone you feel comfortable with

This is someone who will be in the room with you during one of the most intimate moments of your life, so it's important that you feel comfortable with them. Meet with the photographer beforehand to get a sense of their personality and make sure they are someone you can trust.

4) Is the photographer comfortable with your birth plan?
Discuss your expectations for the birth beforehand so the photographer knows what to expect and can be prepared accordingly. For example, if you are planning a home birth, make sure the photographer is comfortable shooting in that environment.

How to find a birth photographer in Ottawa 

Of course, you’re on the website for one right now, but here are some tried and true ways to go about finding a reputable birth photographer!

Start by, of course, asking family and friends. If they have personal experience using the photographer, that’s even better!

There are also many certified birth photographers. Certified Birth Photographers have gone through training in not only photography but how to behave in a birth space. You can rest assured that you’re hiring a true professional when you hire a CBP (Certified Birth Photographer). 

You can also search online for birth photographers in your area. Be sure to read reviews and look at portfolios before making your final decision.

What to expect from your birth photographer

You should expect your birth photographer to be professional, compassionate, and discreet. 

They should make you feel comfortable and relaxed while still being able to capture all of the special moments of your labour and delivery. 

You can expect them to be respectful of your privacy and space while still being able to get the shots that you want. 

Most importantly, you should expect them to be there for you – to document one of the most important days of your life – on call and ready to drop what they’re doing to come to you when you go into labour! 

Here are a few questions to ask your birth photographer:

How many births have you photographed? 

Have you completed any training as a birth photographer? 

What happens if you miss my birth? 

Is there a time limit to how long you’ll stay at my birth? 

What are your packages, and what’s included? 

Can I see a copy of your contract? 

Are you comfortable taking photos in low light? 

Tips for working with your birth photographer

Of course, there are a lot of unknowns in birth photography which makes it even more important to discuss expectations beforehand! 

Be clear about what you want and don't want to be captured. Is there an image from their portfolio you’re hoping to get for your birth? Make sure to tell them! Is there something you’d rather not have photos of? Communicate that, too! 

Are you ok with your images being shared online? This is an important one to discuss.  I do not share photos without consent from my clients.   

Most birth photographers in Ottawa have a photojournalistic approach to birth photography which means they’ll capture moments as they happen. This can make it a bit challenging to guarantee certain images, but it’s still important for you to communicate your vision for the photographs. 

What style do you prefer? RAW? Emotional? 

Do you want candid shots of labour? What types of moments are you hoping to capture? What kind of emotions do you want to capture? 

The more specific you can be, the better (as long as you understand the photographer can’t guarantee anything because it’s birth)!

Ultimately, the best way to choose a birth photographer is to trust your gut. Go with someone whose work you admire and whom you feel you can be yourself around. With the right photographer by your side, you’ll be able to look back on your birth story with joy and pride.

I hope these tips have helped you in choosing the perfect birth photographer in Ottawa to document this amazing moment in your life. Birth photography is a unique and wonderful way to capture the beauty and intensity of childbirth.