How Doulas Can Help Clients Capture Meaningful Birth Photos

As a doula, your role is to provide unwavering support during labor and birth. But did you know you can also help ensure your client gets beautiful and meaningful birth photos? While birth photographers do an incredible job documenting these moments, sometimes the client may rely on their partner or you to capture photos when a professional isn't present. Here are some tips to help you support your client in preserving these once-in-a-lifetime memories.

1. Discuss Photography Preferences in Advance

Before labor begins, talk to your client about their wishes regarding birth photography. Ask them:

• Do they want photos of the labor process, or just after birth?

• Are there specific moments they want captured (e.g., first latch, partner’s reaction, baby’s first cry)?

• Do they want raw and unfiltered images or more modest shots? Understanding their vision ahead of time helps ensure their wishes are respected.

2. Identify the Right Person for the Job

Image by @heyitsjulesmorlet

If the client has hired a birth photographer, your role may simply be to ensure the photographer is given access and space. If no professional is present, identify who will take photos—whether it's you, the partner, or a nurse. If it’s you, make sure you’re comfortable handling a camera or phone while maintaining your primary focus on supporting the birthing person.

3. Use Natural and Soft Lighting

Birth environments are often dimly lit, which can make photography tricky. If possible, encourage the use of soft, natural light from a window or adjust room lighting to avoid harsh overhead lights. Many phones have a night mode that can improve low-light shots without using a disruptive flash.

4. Focus on Emotion and Connection

Image by @heyitsjulesmorlet

The most powerful birth photos aren’t always the perfectly framed ones—they’re the ones that capture raw emotion. Aim to document:

• The look between the parents when they first see their baby

• Hands holding in a moment of support

• Tears of joy, relief, and awe

• The first skin-to-skin contact These images tell the story of birth in a way that words simply cannot.

5. Capture the Little Details

Amidst the intensity of birth, the small details can get lost. Try to photograph:

• Tiny newborn fingers and toes

• The clock at the time of birth

• The baby’s hospital bracelet

• The first feeding or snuggle These details will bring back vivid memories when the parents look back at their birth story.

6. Keep It Respectful and Unobtrusive

Birth is an intimate experience, and some moments require complete privacy. Be mindful of when to step back, and if in doubt, ask before snapping a photo. Always ensure your presence as a photographer doesn’t interfere with medical staff or the birthing person’s experience.

7. Encourage Professional Photography When Possible

If your client is open to it, encourage them to hire a professional birth photographer. A professional will have the experience, equipment, and skill to document the birth beautifully, allowing you and the partner to focus on supporting the birthing person.

As a doula, your priority is always your client’s well-being. By helping them plan for birth photography and capturing a few special moments when appropriate, you can contribute to preserving memories they’ll cherish forever. Even the simplest photos can hold deep emotional significance, making your role in this process all the more meaningful.

Would you like more tips or resources on birth photography? Let’s connect!