Meet Arkady Brown: Metro Detroit Birth & Motherhood Photographer + Doula in Training

Welcome! I’m Arkady Brown, a birth, boudoir, and motherhood photographer serving Metro Detroit—and a doula in training.

Photography wasn’t always part of my plan. In fact, I spent years studying criminal justice and forensic pathology at Wayne State University, where photography was just a requirement—not a passion. But life has a way of leading us exactly where we’re meant to be.

It wasn’t until my 30s, when I craved something creative, that I picked up a camera by choice. And when I did, I knew: This is what I was meant to do.

Why I Photograph Women

Photography became more than an art form—it became a way to help women see themselves differently.

Like so many, I’ve struggled with body insecurities. I know what it’s like to feel unseen, to look in the mirror and not fully recognize the person staring back. But through the lens of my camera, I saw something powerful:

• Women as they are—beautiful, strong, and worthy.
• Mothers in their most vulnerable, yet most radiant, moments.
• The raw, unfiltered power of birth.

I started as a boudoir photographer, but after becoming a mother, my perspective shifted. I found myself always behind the camera, rarely in photos with my kids. Like many moms, I felt too busy, too exhausted, too “not put together” to be photographed.

But motherhood deserves to be seen, celebrated, and remembered.

Now, my mission is simple: To make sure mothers feel seen. To give them a reason to step in front of the camera, to remind them of their beauty, and to capture moments their children will cherish forever.

Why Birth Photography Matters to Me

Of all the photography I do, birth photography holds a special place in my heart.

Birth is raw, emotional, transformative. It’s one of the most profound experiences a woman will ever go through—yet so often, it goes undocumented.

I regret not having my own births professionally captured. I have just a handful of cell phone photos, and while I cherish them, I wish I had more. I wish I could go back and see the emotions my husband and I felt—the love, the anticipation, the relief.

Birth happens in a blur, and memories fade in the haze of postpartum. My job is to make sure that doesn’t happen for you.

From Metro Detroit to Across the Country (and Back Again!)

I grew up in Clawson and Clinton Township before leaving Michigan in 2009 to explore the world. Over the last 15 years, I’ve lived in:

• Las Vegas
• Oregon (where I met my husband on OkCupid!)
• Washington, D.C.
• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Now, after years of adventure, I’m finally coming back home—to raise my kids in the place that raised me and to bring my artistry and support to the mothers of Metro Detroit.

My Approach to Photography

Photography is more than just snapping pictures—it’s an experience.

I don’t just show up with a camera and leave you with a gallery. I provide a concierge-level service where every detail is taken care of:

• Wardrobe styling – I’m curating a beautiful client closet for mothers!
• Guided planning – So you never feel lost or unprepared.
• A relaxed, connected experience – So you feel confident and comfortable in front of the camera.

Whether it’s birth, motherhood, or boudoir, I want you to feel like you already know me by the time we meet in person. I want you to trust me, relax, and fully enjoy the experience.

Why I Became a Doula

As a birth photographer, I’ve always been part of the birthing space—but usually, as a quiet observer. Now, as a doula-in-training with Lifespan Doulas and The VBAC Link, I’m expanding my role to be an active source of support for birthing mothers.

Birth photography and doula work go hand in hand. As a “doula-tog” (doula + photographer), I can provide:

• Physical & emotional support during labor
• Birth advocacy & education
• Stunning, meaningful birth photography

My own birth experiences shaped me. My first was an unnecessary C-section, and my second was a healing VBAC water birth. Through these experiences, I became a strong advocate for informed choice, evidence-based care, and empowered birth experiences.

Birth is powerful. It’s life-changing. And every mother deserves to feel supported, informed, and deeply seen.

What Makes Me Different?

Metro Detroit has no shortage of talented photographers. So why choose me?

Because I am Arkady Brown. My journey, my artistry, and my approach to photography are uniquely mine.

• I see you. Not just as a client, but as a mother, a woman, and a whole human being.
• I believe in the experience. This isn’t just about pretty pictures—it’s about reminding you of your beauty, your power, and your worth.
• I understand motherhood. Some days, you don’t even have time to shower. You barely recognize the woman in the mirror.

I get it—because I’ve been there.

And I want to help you see yourself again.

Let’s Create Something Beautiful Together

Whether you’re looking for birth photography, a motherhood session, or an empowering boudoir experience, I’d love to be part of your journey.

Let’s connect. Let’s create. Let’s capture moments that matter.

Serving Metro Detroit & beyond.