Birth Story of Evelyn Mae
This birth story was a rich watermelon pink. From the art on the walls, to the daughter being born, to the big sisters nightgown. The beautiful red and pink tones in the water, on the tub, in the carpet and towels. The accent blues in dad's clothing, and the rug. The rich green from plants grown in love and care. The colors of this birth, were so fun to document and preserve.
When I first discovered birth photography, long before I was a photographer myself, I noticed how void of color it was. Most birth photographers back then, and some now, work in only black and white. While I love a good black and white photo, and use those tones to preserve rich emotions and zone in on details- nothing beats color. The colors of birth, are deep and vibrant and deserve to be artistically documented and shared with the world.
I arrived to this sacred space, to the sound of a mother being moved by her labor. The tub was filled, and cradling her body. The water was turbulent from her movements. There were watermelon snacks, and quiet whispers of hellos. There was space and breath held.14 minutes later, baby was born into dad's arms, and pulled onto moms chest. Right where this baby belonged.
Every birth, and every home birth, is unique. Home birth especially, takes on the personality of the family. How it plays out, how it is talked about, how the energy in the space flows- it is always a specific recipe that can never be duplicated twice. After baby was born, I documented all of the simple beautiful tender moments that come after a baby is born at home. No fuss, no procedures. Just time. Just bonding. Just touch. Independent Home birth was exactly right for this family, a choice they made with great attention to detail and planning, to honor their history of trauma endured during previous births, and to create a new way forward for their family in healing. I loved every minute of my time here.
Big sisters came and checked in on their newest little addition. One was far too sleepy, and went back to bed. The other stood by mom's side faithfully. Dad helped keep mom supplied with warm towels, as she cuddled her newborn, checked on her, and adorned her with love and care. She birthed her placenta. We awed over all the sweet baby frosting- aka vernix. Birth stats were noted, and there was a beautiful cord burning ceremony. When they transitioned from tub, to bed, mom took a moment to herself while dad did skin to skin and greeted his newest daughter. She took her tinctures, and took notice of each moment, processing her birth. One of my favorite photos from this story, was documented in this space of time, where birth ink, that glorious red power, trailed around mothers legs. That ruby color is a jewel of birth. Rich, and perfect, and good.
The midnight hours turned into morning, and it was like a sun setting. The slow soft transitions of color. The tender moments where eyes became heavier, and movements slowed. Soon, all were resting. Tucked up in blankets. Cooing with love and sleepiness under the twinkling starlight on their bedroom wall.