Scheduling Note: I am presently booking for 2011 and 2012.
What is included? How does it work?
For a complete rundown of what is included in my birth photography package, please feel free to contact me directly at kristylcolley@gmail.com or by calling 816.805.1092
A deposit is required to reserve the time surrounding the due date to ensure availability. Fees are to be paid in full or there are several payment plan options to choose from. My philosophy is that everyone deserves to have the birth they want, and everyone deserves to have that moment captured; therefore, I also work on a sliding scale and accept barter or trade.
Fees is refundable for certain reasons, i.e. I am unable to photograph the birth, through either my fault or the parents, (don’t make it to the hospital in time, forget to call me, act of nature or illness, etc).
Will I meet you before the big day?
Yes! When my birth was photographed, I felt much more comfortable having met the woman in advance. It is important to have the right person and energy surrounding you at your birth. Please remember that who you have present at your birth will greatly affect your feelings and memories of that transformative time. Having had a wonderful birth experience myself--and being completely confident in the miraculous strength of women during childbirth--I know it's important to have energy positive and to be sure nobody surrounding you is bringing a negative experience into yours.
The fee includes my visit to your home during your third trimester so I may become acquainted with you, your home, your birth plan, desires and wishes for photography or film, and your birthing location.
What if I go in to labor at 2 am? Will you be there?
Yes. I am on call 24/7 during the two weeks before and after your due date. If something is to happen before or after those times, I try to always be available. If you are concerned, this is something we can discuss further; please feel free to contact me.
I am concerned about sharing this day with a stranger.....
The best birth photographer is one whom you forget is even in the room. Having had my own birth photographed, I know how it feels to be on the other side of the lens and to share that sensitive moment with someone new. It's important for me to help you feel as comfortable as possible. I will do my absolute best to be as unintrusive as possible. Your wishes for remembering the birth will be discussed in advance.
What if I am having a c-section?
Every birth experience is sacred. Every birth is worth capturing. photographing. While it is unlikely that the surgical staff will allow me into the OR, it does happen on occasion. There are still many moments I will be able to capture your birth experience. Additionally, I will arm your support person in the O.R. with a camera, and I proof those images along with everything I take. For more questions, please email me.
There are certain things I do not want photographed. Is that ok?
Absolutely. When we meet in your 3rd trimester, we'll go over exactly what you are and are not comfortable with, and I will honor your wishes.
If I have a long labor, will you charge me extra?
No. Every minute of labor is part of your experience. If you choose to have me present in the early stages, only in the later, or maybe at scattered moments, that's up to your discretion. This is something we will discuss at our meeting.
How many images will you take?
It varies because each birth experience is unique. A longer labor and delivery will result in a greater number of images. You will receive approximately 75 images in digital form. I will be able to order prints of any you desire to have.
How long will it take to receive the images?
Approximately 3-4 weeks, but it varies due to my schedule around the time you give birth and the number of images taken.
Do I have to share the images you take?
Due to the intimate nature of birth photography, mom and dad have the opportunity to approve all images before they share it with friends and family, should they choose to do so. While I ask my clients to sign a model release, it stipulates that images are only shared with expressed permission. If you decide the birth photographs are just for you and to preserve your memory, that is 100% fine; the decision is yours, and I will only share with permission from you.
If you have any questions not covered here, please feel free to contact me!