When Should I Book My Birth Photographer?

One of the questions I’m asked most often is, “When should we book our birth photographer?”

The answer usually surprises people.

There really isn’t such a thing as booking too early.

In fact, I’ve had families reserve their spot while they were trying to conceive. Others reach out after a positive pregnancy test, long before they’ve announced their pregnancy to friends and family.

Birth photography is one of the few types of photography where planning ahead truly matters.

Why Is Birth Photography So Different?

Unlike a family session or newborn session, birth can’t simply be moved to another day.

Babies don’t check calendars. They don’t wait for business hours. They arrive on holidays, in the middle of the night, during thunderstorms, and sometimes weeks before or after their due date.

When you hire a birth photographer, you’re not booking a two hour session.

You’re reserving someone to be available whenever your baby decides it’s time.

Because of that, most experienced birth photographers accept only a limited number of births each month.

I personally accept just three births each month so I can provide every family with dependable on call coverage.

So…How Early Should You Reach Out?

If birth photography is important to you, reach out as soon as you know you want it.

That might be before you’re pregnant.

It might be after your first ultrasound.

It might be at twenty weeks.

There isn’t a wrong time to inquire, but there can absolutely be a time that’s too late if your photographer’s calendar is already full.

I’d always rather tell a family, “You’re planning wonderfully early,” than have to tell them I no longer have availability for their due month.

Is It Worth Contacting a Birth Photographer Late in Pregnancy?

Absolutely.

I’ve welcomed families later in pregnancy when my calendar allowed, and if I’m unavailable, I’m always happy to recommend another trusted birth photographer.

If you’re 34, 36, or even 38 weeks pregnant, don’t assume you’ve missed your chance. Reach out. The worst answer you’ll receive is that someone is already booked.

Why Do Birth Photographers Limit Their Calendars?

Every birth photographer has their own approach, but most of us intentionally keep our calendars small. I only accept 3 clients total per month.

Birth is unpredictable.

One family may labor for six hours. Another may labor for fifty-six.

Sometimes babies arrive on their due date.

Sometimes they’re born three weeks early.

Sometimes two clients deliver within hours of each other.

Limiting the number of births we accept allows us to genuinely be available for the families who have trusted us with one of the biggest days of their lives. And heaven forbid anything happen where I’m at a birth when you call? I have two trusted back ups ready and eager to step in until I can join you.

What Happens After I Book?

Once your due month is reserved, we’ll stay in touch throughout your pregnancy.

We’ll talk through your birth preferences, when to contact me, what to expect as labor begins, and how I work during your birth.

At 36 weeks, I officially go on call for your family and remain ready until your baby arrives.

Whether your labor begins at noon or two in the morning, I’ll be prepared.

Home Birth, Birth Center, or Hospital

One of my favorite things about birth photography is that every story is different.

I’ve documented peaceful home births, busy hospital deliveries, inductions, planned cesareans, VBACs, first babies, fifth babies, and everything in between.

No matter where or how you plan to give birth, your story deserves to be remembered.

A Little Advice From Someone Who Has Seen More Than 100 Births

If you’re already wondering whether you’ll regret not hiring a birth photographer, there’s a good chance you already know your answer.

I’ve never had a family tell me they wished they had fewer photographs of the day they met their baby.

I have, however, spoken with many parents who wish they had reached out sooner.

If birth photography matters to you, don’t wait for the “perfect” time to inquire. There isn’t one.

Reach out when the thought first crosses your mind.

If my calendar has room, I’d love to tell your story. If it doesn’t, I’ll do my best to help you find someone who can.

Looking for a Birth Photographer in Ocala or Central Florida?

I serve families throughout Ocala, Gainesville, The Villages, Crystal River, Inverness, Dunnellon, and surrounding areas, documenting births with an honest, documentary approach that allows you to stay present while your story is preserved.

If you’re considering birth photography, I’d love to hear about your family, your birth plans, and what this season of life means to you.