“Stories teach us in ways we can remember. They teach us that each woman responds to birth in her unique way and how very wide- ranging that way can be.”
~Ina Mae Gaskin
I believe that birth is one of the most sacred & transformative experiences anyone can go through in their life time. Every human on this earth has a birth story-all are significant…all are important.
I document your birth story so you can forever cherish these moments.
Birth documentation captures more than images - it preserves the emotions, strength, and connection present on the day your baby is born. With a calm, unobtrusive presence, I document your birth so you can fully be in the moment while your story is gently held.
FAQ
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Send me an email to jen@ajoyfulblessing.com or contact me through the website. We will then set up a consultation via zoom/phone call or in person. If all is aligned and you feel good with moving forward, a conract agreement will be sent for online signing with a retainer to secure your booking.
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I am on call at 37 weeks onwards. If you go into labor earlier than that, I will do my best to be there. It’s best to stay in communication as much as possible.
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Yes. Packages for doula + birth photography and film is available upon request. I find that working as a doula and birth film maker/photographer go very well together. Being in the birth space is like a dance. The entire team is there to fully support you throughout and there are moments where I swap places with your partner or other people from the birth team. There are times throughout birth where I am naturally able to capture beautiful moments. I first started out as a doula and was asked to capture images throughout. It was a natural transition to incorporate documentation in my work as a birth doula. If you only want doula support and film, I can do that. If you want doula support and photos only, I can do that as well! Let’s have a conversation and we can work it out!
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I serve families from Chicago to Milwaukee. I go to home births, birth centers and hospitals. Wherever you deliver, I do my best to be there.
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It is never too early or too late to reach out. However, I will say that for doula support, the earlier the better! Why? Because it gives us the time to connect, grow in trust and build our relationship. It will also give us time to process together any concerns you may have, work through your birth plan, and give you any referrals/recommendations for care providers, locations and resources. Being informed to the best of you ability before you give birth will help you when it is go time! You will be well equipped & empowered in making the best informed decisions for your birth.
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This happens. Sometimes I’m at another birth or an emergency pops up. In cases like these, I have several backup doulas and birth photographers/videographers that I work with. If I am there as your doula only, you will meet my backups in advance through a zoom. If I am there as a birth photographer/videographer, there are several incredible backups I have in this area as well. I will be sure to communicate with you right away if anything comes up.
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I am on call 37 weeks whether I am documenting or supporting you as a doula. Call me right away when you start to feel anything. It is better when you connect earlier so I can make sure all my bases are covered. If I happen to be at another birth or in the middle of something- I’ll be able to arrange my life with my family on my end. I head your way when you are in active labor.
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You should expect your photos 2-3 weeks after your birth and your birth video within 4 weeks. Typically the images will arrive first.
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Not at all. The images and video are yours to cherish. However it is an honor to be able to use them for my website, Vimeo and Instagram. I am so grateful should you agree to allow me to use them. I always make sure I have consent to use any photos of the families I document.