real, raw, life-changing—
Your birth Story
detroit michigan birth photographer
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Birth is raw, powerful, and life-changing—a moment that shifts your world forever. It’s intense, unpredictable, and filled with emotions you never expected. In the blur of it all, the details—your baby’s first cries, your hands reaching instinctively—fade too quickly.
That’s why birth photography is more than just pictures. It preserves the fleeting, sacred moments you were too overwhelmed to take in. It captures your strength, emotions, and the miracle unfolding before you. Your birth story deserves to be told—real, raw, and breathtaking—so you can always remember the power, beauty, and love that brought your baby into the world.
From the quiet anticipation and painful moments to the overwhelming rush of love the first time you hold your baby, I’m there to preserve every raw, powerful, and beautiful moment.
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I’ll be there to quietly document your birth story as it unfolds, capturing every tear, every touch, every look of unwavering support. The way your hands instinctively reach for your baby, the first cries that fill the room, the pure joy and relief washing over you—it all deserves to be preserved. Because one day, when the details begin to fade, you’ll want to look back and see the incredible strength you carried, the love that surrounded you, and the very moment your baby took their first breath in this world.
And one day, when your child is old enough, you’ll be able to show them—this is how deeply you were loved before you even took your first breath.
When your gallery is ready, I’ll help you select the perfect images to fill your home with the beauty of that day. Because your birth story isn’t just a moment in time—it’s a legacy, a testament to the incredible mother you are, and a memory you’ll treasure for the rest of your life.
the birth experience includes:
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step one:
connection
Birth photography is deeply personal, and a phone chat allows us to connect and learn about one another. This is your time to share your birth plan, your vision, and what matters most to you. It’s also a chance to ask any questions about the process, so you feel fully informed and supported.
step two:
prepartion
Prior to meeting, you will receive a detailed Birth Story Questionnaire and a Birth Story Client Guide. Then, we will meet in person—first with you and your spouse, and possibly again with your full birth team. This helps me seamlessly integrate into your support system.
step three:
creation
I go on call at (38) weeks and will start to communicate with you more as the big day approaches. When the day arrives, I will join you during active labor (around 6 cm) and remain by your side through birth and the sacred Golden Hour, staying for up to (2) hours postpartum to capture those first precious moments.
step four:
adornment
Within (48) hours, you'll receive a sneak peek gallery of your birth story. The full collection will be finalized within (2-3) weeks, and we can explore turning your cherished moments into beautiful art.
"Never once did I feel uncomfortable or have to ask her to leave the room."
She was very intuitive and knew when privacy was needed. The moments she was able to capture continue to bring tears to my eyes. I am in complete awe every time I look at them. From the very beginning, she kept all lines of communication open and truly made me feel important throughout the entire process. I highly recommend Arkady. I would choose her again in a heartbeat!
courtney c.
brenda m.
"Each photo captured genuine emotions and unique moments, showcasing her ability to tell a story through her lens.
She was not only skilled but also incredibly personable, making me feel at ease throughout the shoot. She took the time to understand my vision and offered creative suggestions that enhanced the final result. The quality of the images was outstanding—crisp, beautifully composed, and perfectly edited.
investment
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Every birth is sacred, and your story deserves to be documented with care and intention.
Full birth stories begin at $1800, with additional offerings available for those special early moments:
Golden Hour Sessions – capturing the first hour after birth in all its raw, radiant beauty
Fresh 48 Sessions – held within the first two days of your baby’s life, in-hospital. birth center, or at home
Whether you’re looking for full coverage or just a glimpse into those first golden moments, there’s a collection designed with your story in mind.
frequently asked questions
I am based in Metro Detroit and comfortably commit to births within the tri-county area. If there are signs that your birth may be fast, we will discuss the best plan, which may include me arriving before active labor begins.
WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED AND WHAT AREAS DO you COVER? +
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From weeks 38-42, I am on call for you 24/7. This means I keep my phone and camera gear ready at all times, ensuring I can quickly head to your birth. With open communication, I will arrive when active labor begins (around 5-6 cm dilated) and stay until 1-2 hours postpartum to document those first unforgettable moments.
HOW DOES BIRTH PHOTOGRAPHY WORK? +
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I am a passive participant, meaning I will not interfere, direct, or disrupt your birth space—I simply document your story as it unfolds. What I capture is entirely your choice. Before birth, I provide a detailed questionnaire so you can express what moments matter most—whether it’s the crowning moment, the first latch, or the look on your partner’s face as they meet your baby.
WHAT WILL YOU DO AND PHOTOGRAPH AT MY BIRTH? +
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Your birth is incredibly personal, and I deeply respect that. You have full control over whether I share any images. If you grant permission, you can also specify which moments you’re comfortable sharing. Any photos I am allowed to use may be featured in print or digital marketing.
Will my photos be shared online? +
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As a mama myself, I know firsthand how quickly birth becomes a blur. I had two vastly different birth experiences—one a C-section, the other a mandatory hospital VBAC. At the time, I worried about how I looked or felt too exposed to document those moments. Now, I deeply regret not having those memories preserved.
Birth is raw, powerful, and once-in-a-lifetime—it deserves to be remembered. When the details fade, your birth story remains, not just for you, but for your child, who will one day see the love, strength, and emotion that welcomed them into the world.
WHY SHOULD I HAVE A BIRTH PHOTOGRAPHER? +
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Every birth story is worth documenting, no matter how your baby arrives. If you have a scheduled or emergency C-section, I will work within hospital policies to capture what I can. If photography isn’t allowed in the OR, I will document the before and after moments, including skin-to-skin bonding, first feeds, and introductions with loved ones.
What if I have a C-section? +
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The earlier, the better! Most clients book around the end of their first or early second trimester to ensure availability. I only take a limited number of births per month to provide dedicated care and flexibility.
When should I book my birth photographer? +
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not only your photographer, but a doula
for the mamas out there needing a coach...
Bringing a new life into the world is one of the most transformative experiences of your life, and you deserve both unwavering support and the ability to cherish every moment. As a birth doula and photographer, I provide the perfect blend of emotional, physical, and informational support while seamlessly documenting your journey. From pregnancy to postpartum, I am by your side—advocating for your choices, helping you navigate labor with calm and confidence, and ensuring your birth space remains peaceful and empowered. With a quiet, documentary approach, I capture the raw beauty of your birth story, allowing you to relive these powerful moments for years to come. With me, you don’t have to choose between support and memories—you get both.
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""Whenever and however you intend to give birth, your experience will impact your emotions, your mind, your body, and your spirit for the rest of your life."
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- Ina May Gaskin
