Birth Photography FAQ: 15 Questions Clients Ask

Welcoming a new baby is one of the most emotional and unforgettable experiences of your life. Many families choose to have a birth photographer present to document the powerful moments of labor, delivery, and first meetings. At Elusive Photography in Falmouth, Maine, we specialize in maternity, newborn, and birth photography that tells your story with care, respect, and artistry.

If you’re considering hiring a birth photographer but aren’t sure what to expect, this FAQ answers the 15 most common questions clients ask before booking.

1. What Is Birth Photography?

Birth photography is the professional documentation of your baby’s arrival, covering labor, delivery, and the first moments afterward. Unlike traditional portraits, birth photography focuses on storytelling, emotion, and connection.

2. When Should I Book My Birth Photographer?

It’s best to book during your second trimester to secure availability around your due date. At Elusive Photography, we tentatively reserve your birth window and remain on call in the weeks leading up to your delivery.

3. What Happens If I Go Into Labor Early or Late?

Babies arrive on their own schedules, and that’s completely normal. We stay on standby from 37 to 42 weeks, adjusting to your birth timeline. If your labor begins unexpectedly, just call or text, our priority is being there for you.

4. When Do You Arrive at the Birth?

Typically, we arrive during active labor, when contractions are strong and regular. This timing allows us to document your journey naturally while respecting your space and comfort.

5. How Long Do You Stay?

Every birth is different, but most sessions last from active labor until about one to two hours after delivery, capturing those precious first cuddles, feedings, and family introductions.

6. What If I Have a C-Section?

Yes, we can often photograph C-sections, depending on your hospital’s policy and your medical team’s approval. If we’re not allowed in the operating room, we document before and after, ensuring your story is still beautifully told.

7. Will My Photos Be Private?

Absolutely. Privacy and consent are our top priorities. At Elusive Photography, all images are handled with complete confidentiality. You choose what, if anything, is shared publicly.

8. What Types of Images Will I Receive?

Your gallery may include emotional moments of labor, the delivery, the baby’s first cry, cutting the cord, and the first family interactions. We focus on authentic, respectful, and emotionally rich storytelling, never anything overly graphic.

9. Can I Choose Black and White or Color Images?

Yes. Many parents love the timeless feel of black-and-white images for birth photography, while others prefer the warmth of color. You can choose one style or a mix of both when reviewing your final gallery.

10. How Do You Work With Hospital or Birth Center Staff?

We have experience working in hospitals, birthing centers, and home birth environments across Maine. We maintain a quiet, respectful presence, coordinating with your care team to support both medical staff and family needs.

11. What If My Photographer Misses the Birth?

Although rare, if your labor moves quickly, we still arrive as soon as possible to photograph post-birth moments, first cuddles, skin-to-skin, and family introductions. Our goal is to document your story authentically, no matter the timing.

12. Can My Partner Still Be Fully Involved?

Absolutely. Birth photography never replaces your partner’s role; it allows them to stay fully present. Many families say having a photographer lets their partner focus on offering support and experiencing the moment together.

13. What Should I Pack or Prepare?

You don’t need much, just include your photographer’s contact info in your birth plan and notify your care provider that photography will be part of your experience. Everything else is handled seamlessly on our end.

14. How Many Photos Will I Receive?

Each birth story is unique, but most clients receive 75-150 fully edited images, delivered in a private online gallery. Every photo is carefully edited to highlight the emotion and atmosphere of your special day.

15. How Is Birth Photography Different From Newborn Photography?

Birth photography documents the real-time story of your baby’s arrival, while newborn photography focuses on posed, artistic portraits within the first few weeks of life. Many families choose both for a complete narrative from the first cry to those peaceful, sleepy newborn moments.

Why Families in Falmouth, Maine, Trust Elusive Photography

With years of experience photographing births, newborns, and families across Coastal and Southern Maine, Elusive Photography provides a calm, supportive, and respectful approach to one of life’s most profound experiences. Every session is handled with care, professionalism, and sensitivity to your comfort and privacy.

We believe your baby’s arrival deserves to be remembered with honesty, love, and artistry.

Final Thoughts

Birth photography is more than documentation; it’s a heartfelt record of strength, love, and new beginnings. If you’re considering it, ask questions, plan ahead, and find a photographer you trust completely.

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