Birth doula support, birth photography, and more in Minneapolis and St. Paul

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FAQ

 

Birth Photography, Doula Support, and more FAQs

When should we hire a doula or birth photographer? We have had families call us as soon as they see those two lines on a positive pregnancy test, and as late as a change in birth plans at 38 weeks. However, we typically recommend doing your search and interview process early on in your pregnancy. Calendars can fill fast, so we require that a non-refundable retainer fee be paid once you've chosen to hire us for your birth team.

Before you make any commitments, we like to meet over a (virtual) warm beverage to see if we're a good fit for one another. This complimentary first meeting is intended to get to know one another, share stories, hopes, and expectations. This birth and parenting stuff is an intimate thing. Take your time. Shop around. Here are 10 Questions to Ask Doulas and 10 Questions to Ask Birth Photographers to get you started along your interview process.


What if I'm planning a surgical birth? Or if I have an unplanned cesarean? We have been in attendance at both planned and unplanned surgical births. Our core roles remain all the same. As your doula, we will provide continuous support in the decisions you and your family face throughout your birthing experience; with warmth and guidance; without any judgment, shame, or guilt. As your photographer, we will continue documenting your birth story, every step of the way.* No matter the plan or the outcome, it is just as important to honor each and every birth for the life-changing transformation it brings.

Will my birthplace allow birth photography? Will they allow doula support? Please check with your provider to ensure that your birth place is compatible with the birth you want to have.*Start the discussion early on with your provider or place of birth what their policy and values are around doula support in the birth room, operating room, and any other procedures you might encounter in birth.

What is your photo-sharing policy? We will never share anything without your written permission. Our contract comes standard with a no-share model release, and we will always check in with you after your birthing experience, not before, to find out if you are open to sharing specific images.

When will we see our photos? We’ll deliver a handful of sneak peeks within 24 hours of your baby’s birth. Your full gallery will be ready a few weeks after baby's birth.

How long will you stay with me during my birth? Until your baby arrives. That’s one of the many joys of being a birth photographer in the Minneapolis and St. Paul area; it’s so unpredictable. We never know when we’re going to be called in to document a birth and, once we’re there, we won’t leave your side until an hour or two after the birth of your baby.

Do you have professional training? What are your qualifications? In addition to our years of experience as doulas and photographers in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the surrounding suburbs, we hold a number of certifications and take continuing education very seriously. We have all completed a DONA birth doula training and have a wide range of experience as professional photographers, from a Photo Journalism degree to Birth Becomes You certifications to documentation for the Star Tribune. Together we hold credentials through DONA for Birth Doula Support, CAPPA for Postpartum Doula Support, Lamaze for Childbirth Education, BeboMia for Lactation Education and Consultation, Infant Sleep Training, and Fertility Support, HypoBabies and HypnoBirthing for Doula Support, and have attended multiple Spinning Babies Workshops for Birth Professionals.

When is payment due? For birth services, including birth photography and doula support, 50% is due when you book. The remainder is due by your 36th week of pregnancy. For all other services, including Birth Planning Sessions, Lactation Support, and Real Postpartum Photography, the total is due at the time of booking, prior to your session.

How is payment collected? Through our handy dandy automated client support service, we provide a seamless process of choosing your level of support, signing our contract, and paying either the deposit, total, or remainder.

 
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