Welcome to the World (Asheville birth photographer)

An important part of growing as a photographer is being open to new experiences. This gives you the chance to try a new idea or technique instead of continuing to capture the same old, same old. For me, photojournalism provides that opportunity.

In the past, I’ve dressed out with local firemen and entered a burning house at the front of the hose; ridden along in a two-seater T-31 training plane as the pilot did a roll; and spent time riding with paramedics for a photo project.

So when a fellow photographer contacted me about a woman looking for a birth photographer in Asheville, I jumped at the chance.

First off, I had no experience in birth photography. I’ve given birth, twice, so I was somewhat prepared. But I’d never witnessed one. I didn’t care. I was excited!

Mentioning it to friends usually produced wide eyes and “what are you thinking” expressions. All I could think was, “you don’t know what you’re missing!”

As far as births go, this one was easy, at least on my end. I got the call from Dad about 7 a.m., and headed that way. I waited patiently as Mom dealt with contractions, thankful I wasn’t the one experiencing them. I took photos of their adorable son who was excitedly awaiting the arrival of “Super Baby.” And I did my best to quietly blend into the surroundings.

Sweet baby girl arrived only three hours later at a whopping 9 pounds, 2 ounces. Mom did an amazing job…Dad, too. It was one of those experiences that sticks with you…watching a new life enter the world. And it’s an experience I definitely hope to have again…at least behind the camera!

Big brother checking out the equipment and waiting on the arrival of “Super Baby”

Asheville photojournalism