Hello and welcome to my blog! Whether you're expecting your first baby or adding another little one to your family, this journey is one of the most exciting (and sometimes nerve-wracking) times of your life. I'm Ash, a birth photographer and doula, and I'm here to help make this experience as smooth and memorable as possible.
What I Do
You might be wondering, what exactly does a birth photographer and doula do? Great question! As a birth photographer, I capture those precious first moments of your baby's life—the emotions, the tiny details, and the powerful moments that you'll cherish forever. But it's not just about the photos. As a doula, I provide emotional and physical support during labor and delivery. Think of me as an extra pair of hands and a calming presence to help guide you through the birthing process.
How I Can Help
From the moment you decide to work with me, I’m here for you. We’ll start with a consultation where we get to know each other, talk about your birth plan, and discuss how I can best support you. During labor, I’m there to provide comfort measures, such as a clip fan to keep you cool, peppermint oil to help with nausea, effective positioning and counter pressure. My goal is to make sure you feel supported and comfortable, so you can focus on bringing your baby into the world.
Preparing for Your Birth
One of the most common questions I get is how to prepare for birth. Every birth is unique, but here are a few tips that can help:
Create a Birth Plan: Think about what you want your birthing experience to look like. Do you want a natural birth or are you open to medical interventions? Discuss these preferences with your healthcare provider and me, so we can support your wishes.
Pack Your Bag: Make sure you have everything you need for the hospital or birth center. Essentials include comfortable clothes, snacks, and any items that will help you relax, like a favorite pillow or essential oils.
Educate Yourself: Take a childbirth class, read up on different birthing methods, and ask lots of questions. The more you know, the more empowered you’ll feel.
Capturing the Moment
You might be concerned about the idea of birth photography, especially if you don't want graphic photos. Rest assured, my approach is all about capturing the beauty and emotion of the moment, not the graphic details (unless you want them!). We’ll discuss your preferences ahead of time to ensure that the photos reflect what’s most important to you.
If things don't go as planned and you need to have a cesarean birth, I'll be there to support you through that process as well. We'll adapt and make sure to capture those first precious moments with your baby, no matter how they arrive.
Ready to Connect?
I hope this gives you a good idea of what to expect when working with a birth photographer and doula. If you're interested in learning more or want to book a consultation, please reach out. I'd love to hear from you and help make your birthing experience as special and stress-free as possible.
Thanks for reading, and I look forward to supporting you on this incredible journey!
