Preparing to Welcome Baby Number Two: A Hospital Birth Story

There is something deeply different about welcoming your second baby into the world.

The unknowns are quieter this time. The fear is softened by experience. And yet, every birth still unfolds in its own completely unique way.

This beautiful family welcomed their second child during an emotional hospital birth in Santa Monica, surrounded by tenderness, anticipation, and the steady rhythm of a mother stepping once again into her power. This is a hospital birth story.

A Calm and Connected Labor Experience

From the moment labor began, there was a calmness in the room that only comes from a family who has already walked this road together before. Between contractions, laughter filled the space. Her partner held her close, grounding her with every touch and whispered reassurance. The excitement of meeting their newest little love sat quietly beneath every moment.

But this birth held something different.

This time, she chose to have her story documented.

Why Birth Photography Matters

As a birth photographer and birth videographer serving families throughout Los Angeles and Santa Monica, one of the greatest honors is preserving the moments mothers often never get to fully see themselves. The strength in their faces. The way their partners look at them during labor. The tiny details that disappear into the blur of birth and adrenaline.

During her first birth, so much happened in a haze. Like many mothers, she remembered pieces of it, but not the full story. This time, she wanted to hold onto everything.

The Moments Families Never Want to Forget

The quiet pacing of the hospital room.

The way her partner wrapped his arms around her during contractions.

The tears that came when they first heard their baby cry.

The overwhelming emotion of becoming a family of four.

Birth photography is about so much more than documenting labor. It is about preserving legacy. It is about giving families the ability to revisit one of the most transformative days of their lives with honesty, beauty, and emotion.

Strength Through Labor

As labor intensified, the room became quieter. Focus settled in. Nurses moved gently through the dim light while she breathed through each wave with incredible strength. Her partner never left her side.

And then, suddenly, their baby was here.

The room shifted instantly from anticipation to overwhelming joy.

The First Moments After Birth

There is a moment after birth that always feels sacred; the seconds where parents see their child for the very first time. Nothing else exists. Time slows. Every wall comes down.

Their newest baby was placed on her chest while tears streamed freely down both parents’ faces. The exhaustion, the relief, the love — it all lived together in that single moment.

Their first child would soon arrive to meet their new sibling, and just like that, an entirely new chapter began.

A Story Worth Remembering

These are the moments worth remembering.

Not just the birth itself, but the connection. The support. The transformation.

Being invited into these sacred spaces as a Los Angeles birth photographer and birth videographer is never something I take lightly. Every labor story is deeply personal, and every family deserves to have those memories preserved with care and honesty.

To this beautiful Santa Monica family: thank you for trusting me to witness and document the day your hearts expanded once again.

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If you’ve started looking into newborn photography, you’ve likely come across two popular options: birth photography and Fresh 48 sessions. While both beautifully document your baby’s arrival, they capture very different moments—and choosing the right one depends on the story you want to tell.

Let’s break it down.

What Is Birth Photography?

Birth photography documents the entire labor and delivery experience—from early labor (or active labor) through the moment your baby is born and those first emotional hours after.

This includes:

• Labor support moments
• Your partner’s reactions
• The intensity and strength of birth
• The exact moment your baby enters the world
• First cries, first touch, first feeding

Birth photography is raw, emotional, and deeply powerful. It tells the full story of how your baby arrived—not just the outcome, but the journey.

From my perspective as a birth photographer, here’s why so many parents choose to document their birth story.

What Is a Fresh 48 Session?

A Fresh 48 session takes place within the first 24–48 hours after birth, typically in the hospital, birth center, or at home.

These sessions focus on:

• Your baby’s brand-new features
• First yawns, stretches, and snuggles
• Family introductions (siblings, grandparents)
• Quiet, intimate bonding moments

Fresh 48 sessions are more relaxed and documentary in style—no posing, no props, just real life in those first fleeting hours.

Key Differences Between Birth Photography and Fresh 48

Timing

• Birth Photography: During labor, delivery, and immediately after birth
• Fresh 48: 1–2 days after your baby is born

Storytelling

• Birth Photography: The full journey of labor and birth
• Fresh 48: The beginning of life outside the womb

Emotion & Intensity

• Birth Photography: Raw, powerful, and emotional
• Fresh 48: Calm, tender, and intimate

Environment

• Birth Photography: Delivery room (hospital, birth center, or home birth)
• Fresh 48: Recovery room or home setting

Which One Is Right for You?

If you want to remember every moment—the strength, the anticipation, the first breath—birth photography is unmatched.

If you prefer something more low-key but still meaningful, a Fresh 48 session captures those once-in-a-lifetime newborn details without the intensity of labor.

Many families choose both to tell the complete story—from the first contraction to those quiet first cuddles.

Can You Have Both?

Absolutely—and they complement each other beautifully.

Birth photography captures the power of becoming, while Fresh 48 preserves the peace of arrival.

Together, they create a complete, emotional narrative you’ll treasure forever.

Final Thoughts

No matter which you choose, these early moments pass quickly. Having them documented allows you to revisit not just how it looked—but how it felt.

Whether you’re drawn to the raw beauty of birth photography or the quiet magic of a Fresh 48 session, you’re preserving the beginning of your baby’s story.

If you are drawn to one or both of these, you can view my birth photography packages here.

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In the quietest hours of the night, I walk into birth spaces knowing something extraordinary is about to happen.

Sometimes the room feels electric. Other times it feels hushed and reverent. Either way, I can sense it — life is about to change forever.

And honestly? That responsibility humbles me every single time.

First, I Enter Gently

When I arrive, I don’t burst in with energy or direction. Instead, I ground myself. I lower my voice. I move with intention.

Because birth is not a production. It is not styled. It is not curated.

Rather, it is raw and unfolding in real time.

So I pay attention. I watch the way you sway through contractions. I notice how your partner presses their forehead against yours. I anticipate the shift in your breathing before the room even realizes it’s happening.

Above all, I protect the space. Your birth belongs to you — not to my camera. My role is to witness it faithfully and preserve it honestly.

Meanwhile, You Turn Inward

As labor deepens, you go somewhere primal. Your focus narrows. Time stretches and collapses all at once.

Because of that intensity, you won’t see everything.

You won’t see the awe on your partner’s face when you roar through a contraction.
You won’t see your own strength radiating from across the room.
You won’t see the exact second determination replaces fear in your eyes.

But I see it.

And more importantly, I document it so you can see it later.

That is when the magic often happens — not during labor itself, but afterward, when you look at your images and whisper, “I did that.”

No Two Births Ever Feel the Same

Over the years, I have stepped into candlelit living rooms and bright hospital suites. I have photographed peaceful water births and urgent cesarean births. I have watched plans unfold beautifully — and I have watched them pivot in unexpected ways.

Yet despite the differences, one truth remains: every birth demands courage.

So instead of measuring your story against anyone else’s, I focus on honoring it fully. Your strength does not depend on location. Your power does not disappear because plans change.

If anything, it shines even brighter in the unexpected moments.

Then — Everything Shifts

There is always a moment when the room changes.

As soon as your baby lands on your chest, the air softens. I see your shoulders drop. I see disbelief flood your face. I see your hands tremble as they touch this tiny human for the first time.

And suddenly, nothing else matters.

Not the hours of labor.
Not the exhaustion.
Not the uncertainty that came before.

In that instant, love takes over.

Every time I witness it, I feel it in my own chest too. Even after all these births, it still undoes me.

Ultimately, This Is About Legacy

Long after the details fade, these photographs remain.

Years from now, your child will see how fiercely you fought for them. They will see who held you steady. They will see the very first seconds of their story.

But just as importantly, you will see yourself.

You will see strength where you once felt doubt.
You will see beauty where you once felt undone.
You will see proof that you crossed a threshold and emerged transformed.

Because birth changes you.

And since that transformation happens only once in this exact way — this baby, this day, this version of you — I believe it deserves to be remembered with intention, reverence, and heart.

So when the call comes, I go.
When labor stretches long, I stay.
And when your world shifts forever, I quietly press the shutter — knowing this is a moment you will carry for the rest of your life.

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When I talk with expecting parents, I often hear the same question asked in different ways:
What difference does it really make to have a doula and a birth photographer present at birth?

The simplest answer is this: birth is more than a medical event. It’s emotional, vulnerable, intense, and life-changing. And in those hours, having someone there who is focused entirely on you—and someone preserving the truth of your story—can shape not only how birth feels, but how it is remembered.

My Role as a Doula: Supporting You in the Moment

As a doula, my job is not to direct your birth or take over the room. It’s to listen, to notice, and to support you in a way that feels steady and grounding.

I’m there to help you trust what your body is doing. To remind you that the sensations you’re feeling are purposeful. To offer reassurance when things feel intense or unfamiliar. I support your partner, too—so they don’t feel like they have to hold everything on their own.

Hospitals and birth spaces are often busy, clinical places. Staff rotate. Policies change. In contrast, I stay. I hold continuity. I help create a sense of calm and safety so you can stay connected to yourself and your birth.

Why I Believe Birth Photography Matters

As a birth photographer, I witness things that are easy to miss in the moment.

You may not remember the way your partner looked at you when you were focused inward. You may not see the strength in your own body as it works so hard to bring your baby into the world. Hormones, exhaustion, and emotion can blur details quickly.

The photographs I take are not about perfection or performance. They are about truth. They document the connection, the power, the tenderness, and the transformation that happens in that room.

These images become part of your family’s story—not just for you, but for your child one day.

The Importance of Being Witnessed in Birth

One of the most meaningful parts of having a doula and birth photographer present is being seen.

Birth asks you to be vulnerable in ways most of us are not used to. When you are surrounded by people whose role is simply to witness without judgment, pressure, or expectation, it can be incredibly freeing.

I’ve seen how being witnessed helps people soften into their labor. How it allows them to feel safe enough to let go. How it changes the way they speak about their birth afterward—especially if it didn’t unfold exactly as planned.

Holding the Experience and the Memory

I often think of doula support as holding the experience of birth in real time, while birth photography holds the memory.

In the moment, I’m focused on your comfort, your emotional well-being, and the flow of the room. Later, the photographs allow you to revisit your birth with clarity and compassion. They help fill in the gaps, affirm your strength, and remind you of how deeply supported you were.

Together, these roles work hand in hand.

Birth Deserves Care, Presence, and Remembrance

Choosing to have a doula and birth photographer is not about adding more people to your birth. It’s about creating a container where you feel supported, respected, and deeply cared for during one of the most important days of your life.

Birth deserves to be remembered honestly.
And you deserve to be held—during it, and long after you look back.

If you’re feeling curious about what this kind of support might look like for your own birth, I’d love to connect. There’s no expectation and no rush—just a conversation to see if it feels like the right fit for you and your family. You deserve to feel supported, seen, and cared for as you prepare to welcome your baby, and I’m always happy to answer questions or talk things through when you’re ready.

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Surrounded by love, this second time mom knew she wanted something different. After her first birth experience left her longing for healing, she chose a redemptive homebirth—one rooted in trust, support, and the belief that her body was made for birth. Having experienced a homebirth before that didn’t unfold as smoothly as she had hoped, this time she desired a natural homebirth that felt healing, empowered, and fully supported in her familiar space.

When I received the call, I gathered my things and headed across the great city of Los Angeles, ready to support this powerful family as they prepared to welcome new life. There’s something uniquely beautiful about homebirths in Los Angeles—amid the fast pace and noise of the city, families are quietly choosing slower, more intentional ways to give birth.

I hadn’t been there even an hour before baby decided it was time to make her entrance.

Why This Mom Chose Homebirth the Second Time Around

For many second time moms, the decision to pursue a homebirth again comes after deep reflection. Even when a first homebirth doesn’t unfold as hoped, the desire for a redemptive natural birth at home can be strong. Rather than turning away from homebirth, some mothers choose to refine their support, preparation, and care—seeking healing and renewed trust in the birth process.

This mother wanted a birth that felt empowering and peaceful. She desired a natural homebirth surrounded by people she trusted, with the freedom to move, rest, and listen to her body. Her home once again became a sacred space—quiet, grounded, and filled with steady encouragement.

The Power of a Redemptive Birth Experience

A redemptive birth isn’t about erasing the past—it’s about reclaiming confidence and healing through a new experience. Homebirth can be especially powerful in this way. Being at home allows birthing parents to feel safe, heard, and respected, which can make an incredible difference emotionally and physically.

This natural birth unfolded quickly, gently, and instinctively. There was no rush, no pressure—only steady support and calm presence. The room was filled with love, quiet strength, and anticipation.

Natural Birth at Home: Trusting the Process

One of the most beautiful aspects of natural homebirth is witnessing how the body knows exactly what to do when given time and space. This second time mom leaned into that trust. Her confidence, built through preparation and intention, guided her through each moment.

When baby arrived, it felt less like an event and more like a continuation—another chapter in a story already full of connection and love.

Homebirth in Los Angeles: Choosing a Different Path

Choosing homebirth in Los Angeles may feel countercultural, but more families are discovering the benefits of natural birth at home. In a city known for innovation and individuality, homebirth reflects a deeply personal choice—one that prioritizes emotional safety, informed consent, and family-centered care.

This birth was a reminder that even in the heart of a big city, birth can be quiet, intentional, and profoundly intimate.

A Gentle Beginning

As baby settled into her mother’s arms, the room felt complete. This second time mom received the birth she had hoped for—a redemptive homebirth that honored her strength and intuition. It was a gentle beginning, not just for baby, but for healing, confidence, and peace.

Natural birth has a way of reminding us that sometimes, the most powerful moments happen when we simply allow them to unfold.

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It is possible for a birth photographer and a doula to be successful in one combined role. However, it requires careful management of the two distinct roles and clear communication with clients.

When I first started working in birth, I began as a birth photographer. It truly (and I mean this from the bottom of my heart) was a “come to Jesus” moment. I discovered what I was meant to do with my life. But then COVID came knocking on the world’s door, and I was no longer allowed into hospitals. My heart hurt for those who had babies in hospitals with no support at all.

After taking doula training, I wondered why it had taken me so long. By making sure to bring my camera, my ‘doula hat’, and my clients are better served.

What are the Benefits of Having One Person Being Both Doula and Birth Photographer?

The first thing that comes to mind as a major benefit is fewer people in your birth space. By reducing the number of people in the room, the birth experience can feel more private and comfortable.

The extended time spent with the client during prenatal meetings and the birth itself can foster a deeper level of trust and comfort. Oftentimes, I do not meet (in person) a client if I am only doing birth photography. The birth space is the first time meeting, which sometimes can be awkward.

Finally, a combined service can be more affordable than hiring two separate professionals.

What are Some Potential Drawbacks of One Person Being a Doula and Birth Photographer?

Many people think true multitasking is impossible. They argue that one person can’t fully focus on both helping someone physically and taking every important photo at the same time. This is a completely valid concern. This is why communication is crucial during prenatal visits. During these visits, it is my job not only to educate the mom, but also their partner. It is my duty to have that partner as prepared as possible with comfort measures, possible scenarios, breathwork, among other skills. I don’t expect them to remember all of this at the time of birth, but I can step in and say, “Remember when we did this or applied pressure there”? I step back into the photographer role once that is taken care of.

During these prenatal meetings, we will also discuss priorities. If it comes to a point that a mom needs full hands-on help, beyond what her partner is providing, I will put down the camera and help until the partner can take over. That said, we will discuss what the family wants. “Would you like me to continue to photograph, or would you like me to step in”?

Because the role of doula+photographer (doulatog) is less common, a solo doulatog may lack the backup structure common for dedicated professionals. This is true. Fewer people are both, but here in the LA area, I find most birth photographers are both. If a suitable backup cannot be found in a particular area, the speaker will communicate this to the client and discuss other options.

How Do You Decide If You Want One Person for Both Roles or Separate People for the Roles?

If you prioritize hands-on support above all else, a dedicated doula may be the best choice.

For the highest quality and most thorough photographic documentation, hiring a dedicated birth photographer is likely your best option.

If you prefer a smaller, more personal birth team and appreciate the savings of hiring one professional, choosing a doulatog could be ideal—as long as you communicate and agree on your priorities in advance. A doulatog truly can offer the best of both worlds.

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When I have a family giving birth far away (in Los Angeles, any distance is relative to time of day!), I have them call me when they *think* they may be in labor. I would rather be halfway there and it be a false alarm than to be called late. In these cases, please don’t worry about bothering me if you are unsure. Bother away!

Getting the Call

This birth was intended to be a homebirth in Riverside. One day, momma and dad were out and about and decided to stop in at their midwife’s birth center. Something felt “off.” Everything was fine, and then a contraction hit. They still weren’t sure if this was it, so they rested a bit.

Meanwhile, here at home in Burbank, I was watching reruns of Sister Wives. Where exactly did the family fall off the rails? I watch this show as if I were personally vested in the outcomes. Why is Kody such a freak show?

I pick up the phone to hear dad’s voice. “We are in labor at the birth center”. “Everything seems to be fine and quiet for now”, he continued. I throw on some clothes, grab my bag and am out the door in 30 seconds.

The Drive

I am talking to Dad as I did a speed show through the streets of Los Angeles to get to the birth center. Miracle of miracles, there was very little traffic and I got there in record time. I didn’t know it was possible to make in from Burbank to Chino Hills in that short amount of time!

A Birth Center Birth

While not what they planned, the birth center birth was quite beautiful. The space was gorgeous, even though it did have blue lights (think editing–yikers!). The midwives and their assistants were so lovely, gentle, and knowledgeable. In case you were wondering, this was at AA Midwifery.

If you are looking to see images from birth centers, home births or hospital births, please see my portfolio.

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This beautiful mother was set to give an unmedicated intervention-free birth at HOAG in Newport Beach, and this wasn’t her first rodeo; it was baby number four. Generally, with subsequent births, you can expect a faster delivery, but this little one won the prize!

Receiving the Call

I received the call around 9 PM that she had finished triage and was now settled in her delivery room. The moment I got the news, I dropped everything and rushed over, arriving around 9:30 PM. As I stepped into the room, I found her moving gracefully, clearly focused, and in the zone, yet occasionally pausing to breathe through the intense contractions sweeping over her body.

The atmosphere in the room was electric, filled with anticipation and determination. The nurse had been tending to her needs but soon stepped out for a moment. Just then, a powerful contraction struck, causing her to bend over the bed, her face a mixture of determination and urgency, as she hollered, “I gotta push!” In that instant, my heart raced. Quickly bolting out of the room, seeking help, I spotted the first staff member in the hallway and exclaimed, “She’s pushing!” My instinct told me it was better to grab someone in person rather than rely on the intercom system, as those answering it often take their time to respond.

Baby Girl Arrives

As I came back into the room, a wave of medical personnel flooded in, ready to assist. They coordinated quickly to help her onto the delivery bed. At that moment, the OB burst into the room, still putting on her gloves. The energy was palpable—everyone understood that time was of the essence.

In a matter of minutes, less than five to be exact, the room filled with the exhilaration of new life. With just a few powerful pushes, the baby emerged, and suddenly, the air was filled with the sweet sound of a newborn’s first cry. A wave of relief and joy washed over everyone present—this was not just a birth; it was the arrival of new hopes and dreams. Witnessing that moment, the sheer strength of the mother, and the collective excitement of the staff made it an unforgettable experience. What a thrilling and poignant reminder of the miracle of life!

The post An Unmedicated Birth appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

Laboring at home

This momma was a nurse herself and frankly had no problem speaking up for herself. I was, of course, this family’s birth photographer, but also their labor doula. I was their doula “just in case” things went sideways. I arrived to do all the at-home laboring which I love. Mom, was completely in control and dug deep inside herself. Some mom’s to be are loud and proud and some look inward for their stability. She was the latter. I found myself wondering how to help or if I was doing anything at all. I voiced this later and she assured me that just being there was comforting and I hadn’t needed “to do anything”.

When contractions started to become more frequent and increasing in intensity, we all headed to the hospital. It was important to do this first bit at home. She was more comfortable, able to walk and do as she pleased, and reduced time actually in the hospital.

Heading to the Hospital when Active Labor Begins

Once at the hospital, the nurses did all the things, began an IV port, monitored the baby, and checked her cervical dilation. But that is when any hands-on “stuff” ended. It was only her, her breathing and deep concentration. This portion didn’t last long at all. She did most of the work at home and now she was going to meet her child.

A completely hands-off OB

I have never seen such a doctor listen so well and be completely hands-off. There was no coached pushing. No “1,2,3,4 PUSH“, there were very few people in the room, and there was dimmed lighting. Gone were the sounds of voices, the beeps of machines, and fingers on and in her vagina. The OB was there, but simply watching and not right on top of her.

Baby was Born into a Peaceful Environment

The baby girl was born and came out all on her own. No yanking baby out, no pulling, no guiding, and no yelling “Here she is!” It was calm. It was breathtaking. It was amazing.

Postpartum

These very calm parents, doctor and the nurses took such good care. I wished all OBs could be so accommodating. There was no rush. He waited to cut the cord until it was white and aided in delivering the placenta. There was no tearing. He calmly finished up, congratulated this couple, and silently left the room.

I hope you take the time to watch the video. Don’t expect a lot of screaming and fanfare, but instead watch the quiet determination of a strong woman and her equally strong partner welcome their baby daughter. A natural hospital birth can be accomplished.

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Oh my goodness! The last quarter of 2024 has been a whirlwind—like trying to catch confetti in a windstorm! I must apologize for my blog silence; I’ve been busier than a cat in a room full of rocking chairs.

So much has happened that it feels like I’m trying to recall a plot twist in a soap opera! We’ve had awards, a few hospital births, a free-birth at home, and let’s not forget my annual Santa Sessions, where I transform into a jolly photographer for the holidays. It’s been quite the ride!

Awards

I guess I will start with the IAPBP annual contest for birth photographer of the year. Was I birth photographer of the year? Nope, but I did win a silver award as well as a commendation award.

This is the image that won silver-

The image below received an commendation-

A Los Angeles Free Birth

The two images above are from a wild and unforgettable free birth experience I documented. Imagine this: a last-minute booking because her original doula and birth photographer had to cancel. So, she brings me on board for pictures and enlists another doula for support. Honestly, I’m thankful for this setup; trying to juggle both would have turned me into a frazzled circus act!

It was a middle-of-the-night call during one of LA’s infamous heat waves. All the power had gone out, leaving us in complete darkness—no light, no hot water for the tub, and let’s not even talk about fans or air conditioning. Talk about sweating it out! And here’s the kicker: the baby decided to take its sweet time making an entrance, presenting sunny side up like it was trying to audition for a cooking show.

Props to the doula for keeping her cool—she was definitely the right choice! I can’t share the film just yet, but it’s absolutely gorgeous. In the meantime, here are a few images from that night. Trust me, with no light and a room full of excitement, it was not the time to whip out my flash like I was at a disco party!

If you are planning a homebirth or hospital birth or even a birth center birth, take a look at my portfolio and my service page!

Hospital Births

Somehow, it has taken me hours just to write this blog. I will come back with hospital births in the new year!

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