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Birth Photography Service and Pricing

Birth story photo of a newborn baby looking at her mother by Birth photographer and labor doula, Leona Darnell

Where words fail to capture the depth and gravity of this moment, the photograph preserves.

When you choose me to document the raw beauty of childbirth, rest assured that I will approach it with the utmost dignity, love, and respect. It is an honor to play a role in telling your birth story, and I deeply value this responsibility.

What is Birth Photography?

When choosing someone to document your birth, it’s essential to understand the role of a birth photographer. It may seem straightforward, but there’s more to it than meets the eye. I’ve written a brief blog post (seriously, it’s only a one-minute read) explaining it.

As Your Birth Photographer

As your birth photographer, I’ll be there for you when you’re in active labor or as soon as you call your midwife. I’ll stay throughout your labor and for up to 90 minutes postpartum. My goal is not to overwhelm you with constant photography but to capture meaningful moments. With my experience, I know how to move around the birthing space seamlessly. I use flash thoughtfully, and most families hardly notice it. However, if you prefer, I can work without it too.

There are two comprehensive birth photography packages I offer, each carefully curated to capture the precious moments of your special day.
Birth photography image by Leona Darnell. This shows a partner supporting his wife during labor in a hospital.
color birth photography image by Southern California birth photographer, Leona Darnell, showing a mother holding her baby in a birth pool.

Birth Photography Package 1 │ 1900.

Capture the magic of childbirth with breathtaking still images. I take only a few birth photography clients each month. Reserve your spot with a 50% retainer of $950 with the remaining balance due by week 37. Flexible payment plans are also an available. If you’re thinking about having a baby shower or simply want friends and family to help out with the cost of birth photography, I can set up a gift registry for you.

Your birth photography package includes everything outlined below.
A complimentary petite (mini) maternity session

This is a great way for us to get to know one another. These are an hour long Monday-Friday either in studio or a location of your choice. 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 38 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 Birth Photographer

In the highly unlikely event that I am unable to attend your birth due to illness or emergency, rest assured that I have qualified birth photographers ready to step in and document the special moment. I personally handle all the editing of the images.


color home birth photo of a newborn looking at his father by Birth and Beauty.

Birth Photography and Birth Film Package 2 │ 2400.

Capture the magic of childbirth with breathtaking still images and a birth film. I take only a few birth photography clients each month, so don’t miss out. Reserve your spot with a 50% retainer of $1200 with the remaining balance due by week 37. Flexible payment plans are also an available. If you’re thinking about having a baby shower or simply want friends and family to help out with the cost of birth photography, I can set up a gift registry for you.

Birth Film samples can be viewed here.
Your birth photography package includes everything outlined below.
A complimentary petite (mini) maternity session

This is a great way for us to get to know one another. These are an hour long Monday-Friday either in studio or a location of your choice. 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 38 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.

4-6 minute Birth Film

Experience the magic of your special day with a captivating birth film. Enhance your cherished memories with dynamic moving images that beautifully complement your still photos. Share the emotional journey with loved ones who couldn’t be present, and let them be a part of this extraordinary experience.

A qualified back-up Birth Photographer

In the highly unlikely event that I am unable to attend your birth due to illness or emergency, rest assured that I have qualified birth photographers ready to step in and document the special moment. I personally handle all the editing of the images.