Your Doula and Birth Photographer (Doulatog) and the Service I Offer
A Doulatog is a combination of pregnancy support, labor attendant, and professional birth photographer all rolled into one.
I’ve written two brief blog posts—one on what a birth photographer does and another on the role of a doula. These topics might seem straightforward, but you may be surprised.
Investing in a doula, or in this case a doulatog, early in your pregnancy allows us to form a strong connection.
We’ll get to know each other, work as a unified team, and understand your preferences, quirks, sense of humor, and seriousness, which will be incredibly valuable during the birth. When you go into labor and I receive the call, you’ll know exactly who’s coming and how I can assist. I will always be your strongest advocate and capture unforgettable images of your birth story along the way.
As your doula and photographer
Let’s meet
I highly recommend meeting for coffee or tea at a convenient location to ensure we’re the right fit. Bring any questions, and if you have a partner, they’re welcome too. I understand life can be hectic, but investing time now will pay off in the long run. If you are most comfortable doing a video chat instead, I am fine with that as well. I do understand modern-day life!
If we decide to move forward, after taking care of all the necessary paperwork like retainers and contracts, let’s plan for one or two prenatal visits.
During our first meeting, you can share details about your upcoming birth, concerns, fears, and anything else you’d like to discuss. If you’d like a second visit, we can cover comfort measures and guide your partner on supporting you during labor. Each meeting can last up to 90 minutes; I want you to feel fully supported and not rushed.
You’re in labor! What now?
Once labor begins and you have called me, I will get everything ready on my end and come to you when you request. This could be immediately, when you are in active labor, or at any point in between. As your doula, I will follow your lead and provide support when you feel you need it. Since we are already familiar with each other, I can easily switch between being a doula and a photographer as needed. I will take my cues from you and your partner regarding the level of support required.
If your partner is providing physical support, I will focus on documenting the experience and offering verbal encouragement as necessary. In the event of a complex birth, my role as a doula will take priority unless we have agreed otherwise in advance. Typically, I will stay for about 90 minutes after the birth or after your baby’s examination.
You’ve had your sweet baby, now what?
With this package, you can have a postnatal visit 5-10 days after giving birth. The timing of my visit is entirely up to you. During this visit, we can use the time to review and discuss your birth story and address any concerns you may have. We can also talk about breastfeeding issues, pumping, schedules, or any other topics of your choice. The time during this visit is yours.
Between 4-6 weeks later, I come to your home to deliver your wonderful birth story images and custom keepsake box you can put your little one’s treasures in.
Doulatog (Birth Doula+Birth Photography) │ 2500.
I have a limited number of doulatog slots available each month. A 50% retainer ($1200) is required to secure a spot on my calendar, with the remaining balance due by week 37. Additionally, payment plans are available. If you are considering having a baby shower or simply want a way for friends and family to assist with the cost of birth photography and doula support, I can set up a gift registry for you.
Your birth doulatog package includes everything outlined below.
One or two prenatal meetings
Each of these meetings typically lasts for an hour. Their purpose is to get to know each other, understand your needs and desires, and discuss your expectations. We can review your birth plan, and I can assist you with writing it if needed. We can also use the time to talk with your partner about their role during the birth. Partners may sometimes feel helpless in the delivery room, but there are many ways they can support you! These meetings can be tailored to your preferences.
A complimentary petite (mini) maternity session
This is a great way for us to get to know one another. These about 45 minutes long Monday-Friday in my North Hollywood studio. I do have a selection of lovely dresses or you can bring your own. You receive five high resolution, hand retouched images of your choice sent to you via digital download.
On call from week 37 until your child enters the world
This means that I prioritize my availability for your needs, day or night, 24/7.
75+ edited images with a stunning heirloom keepsake box
I hand-edit your birth images in both color and black and white and carefully package them on a custom flash drive for safekeeping. As a bonus, I include 50 stunning professional prints to help fill your custom heirloom box, adding to the cherished memories of your special day.
A qualified back-up Doulatog
In the highly unlikely event that I am unable to attend your birth due to illness or emergency, rest assured that I have qualified doulatogs ready to step in and document the special moment and lend support. I personally handle all the editing of the images.
Follow up home visit 5-10 days after you give birth
This will be a time to talk about your birth, how feedings are going, how you are healing and to address any problems or concerns you may have.
Want more options?
Capture the magic of your child’s birth with a personal birth film or consider adding a lifestyle newborn session to your package. These are two exceptional options to enhance your birth doulatog package.