What It’s Really Like to Have a Photographer at Your Birth


Spoiler: it’s not awkward, it’s empowering.


If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to have someone photographing your birth — I get it. It can feel like an incredibly vulnerable space to invite someone into. You might be asking:

“Will it feel intrusive?”
“Will I be aware of the camera?”
“What will the photos actually show?”

Here’s the truth: when you hire the right birth photographer; someone who’s calm, experienced, and knows how to move quietly in birth spaces, it doesn’t feel like a photoshoot. It feels like a gentle witness, holding space with you.


I’m Ashleigh, a birth photographer based in the Illawarra region, serving families across Shellharbour, Wollongong, Kiama and surrounds. I’ve had the honour of photographing many of births from home water births to planned caesareans. I have worked within The Wollongong Hospital, Wollongong Private Hospital, Shoalhaven Hospital, as well as alongside many of our amazing Privately Practicing midwives here in the Illawarra and I can honestly say: the experience is as meaningful for me as it is for my clients.

Here’s what to expect when I arrive:


You (or your partner/doula) let me know when labour is active.

I don’t rush in as soon as early labour starts, we time it so that I’m there when things are progressing, but not too intense. We’ll have chatted in advance about your birth preferences, lighting, and privacy.


I enter quietly and respectfully.

I take my shoes off. I move softly. I greet your birth team with a smile, give you a little nod of support and then I fade into the background.


I don’t need anything from you.

You don’t need to pose, perform, or even acknowledge the camera. My job is to read the room, know when to step back, and capture the moments as they unfold: your strength, the way your partner supports you, the quiet power in the room, and that first look at your baby.


I use soft light and natural shadows.

No flashes. No big gear. Just me, my camera, and the story unfolding. Whether you’re birthing at Wollongong Hospital, Wollongong Private Hospital, or at home, I adjust to the environment without interrupting the flow.

What do the photos actually show?


That depends entirely on what you want. Some parents want the full story, including crowning. Others prefer to focus on the emotion and connection. You set the tone. Every photo is taken with sensitivity and respect.


What you’ll see most in your gallery:

  • The way you breathe through each wave
  • The hands that hold you
  • The quiet strength you didn’t know you had
  • That very first meeting with your baby
  • The expressions you’ll want to remember forever


But is it awkward?


Honestly? No. Most of my clients say they forgot I was even there.


“I didn’t even notice you half the time, but somehow you captured everything. The way my partner looked at me. The tears. The joy. The emotion of it ALL! I can’t imagine not having those photos now. They are part of our birthday tradition now, on the eve of K's birthday each year, we look through the album together as a family and watch the video and every year without doubt the tears flow and gratitude grows.”
— Emma, Wollongong Hospital

So, is birth photography for you?


If you want to remember your birth clearly and beautifully, not just the way it looked, but the way it felt — then yes.

If you want someone who will honour your space and capture the story without missing the details — then yes.

And if you're birthing anywhere across the Illawarra, I'm here for you.