stsinner
No longer a newbie, moving up!
- Joined
- Oct 27, 2008
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Thanks, everyone. I feel better about the idea now.
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I had the unexpected opportunity to photograph my nephew's birth. It was pretty intense and I was hesitant, but everyone (including his mother) seemed to think I ought to be catching the event. Most people think that it's gross. I would include myself before the experience.
Now, however, I would have to agree that there's absolutely nothing more powerful to witness. All at once it will stop being gross and start being incredible.
I think if your wife is willing, you should absolutely take the opportunity. Just remember that she's going to be under a ton of stress and a lot of pain. It'll be best to be a fly on the wall. Take a mediocre picture if it means helping her be a little more comfortable. Between the two of you, even technically mediocre pictures will be just as powerful in the eyes of those to whom they really matter.
Hmmm, how to comment? I am a woman who has had 2 children so I know in the heat of the moment it isn't pornographic. Childbirth is a miracle and something to be treasured forever. That being said....I do not EVER want my mother to whip out pictures of me coming out of her woman zone! Never ever! But to each their own, if you and your wife want these shots then do it. Later in life when you want to show them to your children ask first. Who knows this little baby may end up being an OB or labor and delivery nurse and find irony in the photos.
I have shot births before, never had issues about being there. As stated above just stay out of the way.
There are varying opinions about how "graphic" to get, but that will be totally up to you and your wife. Only once did I get complete "full view" shots, but they were going to be used as an educational tool.
Usually I will get the babies head after it is out and at an angle from the mother's head. With the way the mother is draped that is usually the best veiw.
One thing to consider is the shot of you cutting the cord. Everyone I have done makes that shot a priority. Because it is one of the only shots where the father is actively involved.
The true shot is the first shot of the baby on the mothers stomach right after delivery. Be sure to get the baby and mom's expresion together. Also get a shot of the doc holding the baby, and at a later date give him/her a copy. Most OB docs really enjoy getting those shots.
Congrats to you and your wife. As stated above remember the most important thing is for you to be there regardless of whether you get any shots or not.
Couple more thoughts...right after birth the baby will be taken aside for cleaning and warming and assessment ( measurements etc...) these are also desired shots. This will be a busy moment and your wife may want you with her. If there is someone else who can photo you might want to consider letting them do it for you.