Baby "T" Birth | Calgary Birth Photography

Amanda and I met when I was pregnant with my first and she was pregnant with her second. She was already a nurse, though not yet working in labour and delivery. Shortly after her second was born she began working at Foothills Medical Centre’s Labour and Delivery Unit (unfortunately not before Theo made his grand early entrance there, as I would have adored to have her as my nurse).

Perspectives change based on experience. FMC deals with the high high risk pregnancies and deliveries, like my one-pound Theo situation. Amanda had been working with cases like mine for several years. When you are constantly engaged in situations that are on the brink of crisis it’s so hard to remove yourself from that and recognize that sometimes low risk just stays low risk. Amanda is a woman of fierce faith, strength and dedication to her family. Throughout this rainbow pregnancy she had to repeatedly release the fears and anxieties that accompany the knowledge that comes with perspective. I admire her so much for this.

Ok, ok so let’s get to the birth.

As she had had both of her other boys at 39+5 & 39+6 this pregnancy seemed eternal once it passed 40 weeks! But between a sweep and acupuncture on a bright Sunday morning at 40+4 I got a call that the membranes had ruptured and things had indeed started. Knowing this was a 4th pregnancy I rushed up to Cochrane in hopes that the baby hadn’t arrived before I did. I arrived to tea being sipped, little boys on bikes and softly swaying still pregnant hips. The contractions had slowed down, which everyone was totally ok with. It’s a lovely June Sunday morning, is there really anywhere else birth workers would rather me? Hard no.

Over the next few hours they went on walks, did stairs and ate a little, but no real change was coming. The midwives decided to do another cervical check to make sure the membranes were actually ruptured. There was more there, and upon rupture discovered meconium (a contraindication to a home birth, and requires a transfer to hospital). Boy did the contractions change after the rupture though! We all jumped into our vehicles as we knew it wouldn’t be long until this baby came.

I arrived at the hospital minutes after they did, and Amanda was definitely in active labour. It’s not very often you are at a hospital with one of their own nurses about to deliver! The amount of support in that room was incredible! Not only did she have Ian, but she also had her friend (another nurse who had just finished a night shift, bless her heart), her midwives and other nurses who kept stopping by to offer support or help. Amanda was wrapped in love and adoration by all around her.

The contractions came quickly and hard. Her second was a birth centre waterbirth, so she had experienced transition without any pain medication, but without access to immersible water she later said that this one was harder.

She hit transition. “I want an epidural.” We all looked at each other knowing that delivery was close, but when last checked she was 6cm. So they put the order in and 30 minutes later the epidural was placed. Literally moments after it was placed she lay back down and yelled “I NEED TO PUSH!” "If that’s what your body says you go ahead.” Mary the midwife tells her. And with guttural power that all birthing women know, she pushed. Held by all in her raw vulnerable amazing state, without any effects of the epidural yet working, she birthed a beautiful 9lb 10oz baby boy.

Baby "R" Birth | Calgary Birth Photographer

Annie didn’t have an easy start.

Prodromal labour began on Friday evening around her 38th week of pregnancy. I received notification around midnight that things might be picking up soon. I knew that Annie had been nesting HARDCORE the week before, so this didn’t surprise me at all (can you say, 7 dozen cookies in an evening?!). Saturday comes, nothing consistent. Contractions were irregular but painful enough she couldn’t sleep through them. Sunday comes, same story, no change, just pure exhaustion and frustration. I delivered a TENS Sunday afternoon, with the hopes that it would at least take the edge off (it did, she said) and her midwife had recommended the Miles Circuit.

Monday morning, after a trying weekend of no sleep and no progress (though we both think the Miles Circuit did make a difference from Sunday night), her membranes ruptured and active labour began. Thank goodness! I joined them within an hour of ruptured membranes and Tietje (Midwife) was already there. Although she was only 3cm dilated, she was contracting regularly and strong, so neither Tietje or I felt like we should leave.

Annie dug deep immediately and found her groove. While the original plan was to birth at the Birth Centre, once labour took hold, Annie knew she would be more comfortable at home (and understandably didn’t want to get into a car). Convenient that midwives come with all the same gear! In the comfort of her own home, in her own tub a healthy baby boy was born at 2:41pm that afternoon.

Their trusty one-eyed pup stayed by her side throughout the whole thing. Dogs are so intuitive.

Their trusty one-eyed pup stayed by her side throughout the whole thing. Dogs are so intuitive.

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J+V | Engagement

I don't do many couples/engagements at this point, but when some of your best friends ask, you agree! 

Justine and Vince, if you had asked me 4 years ago whether you were a suitable match I would have said "helllaaanooo". But somehow in that time you have both transformed into two individuals who are perfectly matched. Vince has tapped into his soft, creative side (can we say "Pinterest"?) and Justine gone from scoffing at the outdoors to becoming a rock-climbing, cross-country skiing badass.

When Andrew and I were deciding what the next step would be in our relationship someone asked us if we were better together, or better apart. Well, you two (just like us ;) ) are definitely better together. Your laughs are bigger and your goals grander. Can't wait for your wedding! Congratulations! 

Forest Engagement Photos_Bragg Creek.jpg
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Vince and Justine Bragg Creek Engagement.jpg
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Keay | Calgary Family Photographer

Family sessions are always made better by toddlers, and this one was no exception. These two brothers are charmers and could steal anyone over. Mr. C is especially brilliant and was reading me letters off the front of the books (SO impressive for a 2 year old!). And little brother B was an experienced model at this point as he had managed to have photos taken of him from the week before he was born, to two weeks after, to this one! This family is a ton of fun, they roll with the punches and it's evident to see how much their children love their parents. 

Keay Calgary Family Photographer
Bethany Galster Family Photography
Bethany Galster Family Photography
Calgary Photography Family
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What is Documentary Photography?

History

 

Documentary Photography was the style historically used by photojournalists and existed within political movements and historical narratives. "A picture tells a thousand words" could be the catchphrase of photojournalism. Since the popularization of photography, pictures have recorded the stories of triumph and depressions. Check out these iconic photos captured by photojournalists. 

Modern Uses

Documentary photography is mostly used in wedding, birth and event photography. It is also still used by photojournalists around the world to document events as they unfold. This is a budding field in relation to family-related sessions. 

Why do You Prefer This Style?

I have dabbled in all different styles of photography. Posed, lifestyle, indoor, outdoor, with natural light and studio light. Through all of my experience I have come to the realization that the photos which bring me the most joy are the photos which display life as it is- raw, emotional, fun, messy and lovely. Although I appreciate the time and art of creating the perfect posed portrait, my favourite creations are where you are just being you. I recognize that documentary photography isn't for everyone, some prefer the pretty and posed. But if you are like me and love the puddle jumping, tickle fest, coffee brewing mundane-but-oh-so-important-moments, then documentary photography might just be for you. 

What Does a Session Look Like?

First off, I come to you. To your home, your safe place. Depending on what type of session it is (family, newborn etc) there will be different expectations (ie. time of day, length of session etc). These will be discussed with you directly. I want you to be confident and at ease. How is this achieved? You do you. If you normally have fantastic hair and make-up, then do this! If on a typical day you don't wear anything more than track pants and a sweater, then do this! Imagine this, when you are old (and most likely senile, because let's be honest we are all well on our way there!) your grown kids are flipping through the photo album (HA. Let's be honest, scrolling through your old Facebook feed) and they see a picture of you- what do you want them to see? Do they see a mother placing waffles on a toddlers plate? Do they see a father teaching the girls how to fold a paper-airplane? Do they see Grandma reading a story to curious ears? 

Each session will be created as the moments unfold. This takes time, and comfort. There is no posing and no direction. I will brief you on activities that can be done, but besides that I will be a fly on the wall. Don't worry, I'll communicate with you before the session to make sure you understand and are comfortable with everything- I will also make sure properly introduce and play with your children before starting with photos so they are comfortable with me. 

Each package varies on what is included. Please reference the Investment page for current pricing. 

What do I recieve as part of my package?

 

Hopefully this answers some of your questions regarding documentary photography. I would love to spend half a day with you and document the complexities of your life. Please contact me to schedule your session. 

K+B MamaLove | Calgary Family Photographer

Kaitlin and I have known each other for...ever. We were friends as pre-schoolers and we (oddly) have professional pictures done together of us and our siblings when we were around 3-years-old. And no you probably won't see those unless you are very persuasive. 

Both of our families migrated from St. Catharines, Ontario to Calgary (independently of each other, it's not like a sister-wives situation don't worry) and it's been fun to connect as adults. We don't hang out nearly enough, but when we do we pick up right where we left off. 

Kaitlin and little B were the first of my MamaLove Sessions and I love how they turned out. Regardless of how active (or teething!) little ones are, you can still see their desire and affection for their mother. Baby-blues and sweet kisses...

Calgary Mother Session
Calgary Family Photographer
Calgary Family Photographer
Calgary Mother Sessions
Calgary MamaLove Sessions
Mom and Daughter Photography

Baby "C" Birth | Calgary Birth Photographer

Being a doula and birth photographer I get to observe birth from a unique angle. Every woman responds to labour differently. Some internalize. Most vocalize. Some want lots present, some want none present. 

And some just want to laugh. I had the honour of being present for little "C"s birth and boy did his mama make it seem fun! It was one of those moments where even medical professionals were looking at her like "you can't be in active labour" and then checked, "8 cm." Well then. Birth was her game and coping was her fame. 

Location: Foothills Medical Centre

Calgary Birth Photographer
Calgary Birth Photographer

Moon Birthday Party | Calgary Family Photographer

What happens when you combine princesses and Pinterest? A one-year-olds party only some would dream of! Little Rosalie's party was cute and elegant at the same time. Chinawear, charcuterie and cheese board's, homemade marshmellows and fruit, sweet or savory, you name it and it was there. These little girls are loved beyond belief, and you can see it in every interaction.
Thanks for inviting me in to your fun little world.  

Calgary Family Photographer
Calgary Family Photographer
Calgary Family Photographer
Calgary Family Photographer
Calgary Family Photographer

The Other Category | Calgary Headshots

There are few people in this world who constantly radiate kindness, but Lucy is one of them. When she asked if I would be willing to do their headshots for their organization The Other Category I was thrilled. Not only is Lucy genuine, she is also gorgeous! So you are asking me to spend the afternoon with three beautiful woman, at a coffee shop as they work on a cause I fully agree with? Yeah, I suppose I can do that. 

Three passionate women making a difference.

Check out their Youtube channel and Facebook Page.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvozWJdKBbE3nyRE-N_Utag
https://www.facebook.com/TheOtherCategoryDialogue/?fref=ts

Photos taken at Monogram Coffee. 

Calgary Headshot photographer
Calgary Headshot Photographer
Calgary Headshot Photographer

Lactation Cookie Recipe (Tried and True)

lactation cookie recipe

Did you know that when breastfeeding you need to consume the same amount of calories/day as you did during your last trimester of pregnancy? Think about it, you were the only one growing a human on the inside, and now you are the only one growing the same human on the outside! So boobs, they deserve a lot of attention. 

With that comes milk supply. Hormones, stress, lack of sleep, travel- you name it and it can interfere with our ability to produce enough milk. Some women never have an issue with milk supply, and some women always have an issue with milk supply. But regardless of where you land on the spectrum, it's always nice to have some lactation cookies hanging around. 

There are some key ingredients in this recipe that are natural milk "boosters" (brewer's yeast, fennel and oatmeal). So don't skimp on these otherwise you're just eating cookies while lactating.

I've also tried multiple different recipes and many are dry and crumbly, or bitter. So here is the variation I have found that is both moist, scrumptious and milky-effective.

Lactate away ladies!  

Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of old fashioned oats

  • 1 cup of all-purpose flour

  • 1/2 cup of whole wheat flour

  • 1 teaspoon of salt

  • 1 teaspoon of cinnamon

  • 1 teaspoon of baking soda

  • 4 tablespoons of brewers yeast

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of brown sugar

  • 1/2 cup of canola oil

  • 2 eggs

  • 4 table spoons of water

  • 2 tablespoons of flaxseed meal or flaxseed

  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

  • 1 tablespoon of fennel (optional)

Add last: 

  • 1 cup of chocolate chips/raisins/nuts (your preference)

Method:

Preheat the oven to 350F.
1. Mix together 2 tablespoons of flaxseed/flaxseed meal and water, set aside for 3-5 minutes.
2. Mix dry ingredients
3. Mix wet ingredients, add the flaxseed/water combo to the wet ingredients (if you find the cookies are still a little crumbly, add some more oil)
4. Slowly add dry ingredients to wet ingredients- mix until moist
5. Add chocolate chips/raisins/nuts of your preference
6) Scoop or drop onto baking sheet. 

Bake for 8-12 minutes. Makes approximately 6 dozen cookies.

Best Birth Photos of 2016

The fantastic Canadian Birth Photographers recently published some of the best work from their photographers in 2016. I was incredibly honoured to be one of the featured photographers. 

Not only was my image published in the original blog post but a few were also selected to be featured on the Baby Centre blog! Needless to say my morning was filled with giggles, shares and pride. 

Check out the original blog post for some amazing shots: http://www.birthphotographers.ca/blog/best-birth-moments-of-2016 and the Baby Center Blog: http://blogs.babycenter.com/mom_stories/birth-photography-pics-12142016-best-year

Calgary Birth Photographer NOVA