For mom-to-be Lisa Robinson-Ward, there was only ever one option for her birth photographer: herself. And the California-based photographer, who specializes in weddings and portraits, had a very special reason for shooting her own labor and delivery.
Already mom to a 9-year-old son with her husband, Robinson-Ward had been trying for several years to get pregnant again, suffering two miscarriages along the way. It was when they made the decision to stop trying for another baby that she fell pregnant with daughter Anora, who is now 6 months old.
Robinson-Ward believed that photographing her own childbirth experience would help her stay calm and provide a distraction from the pain. She admitted that she didn’t know if she’d be able to pull it off, but she did, and the images are stunning.
Waiting
“When we got to hospital, I was shaking with every single contraction and at one point I thought to myself, There’s no way I’m going to be able to hold the camera,” admitted Robinson-Ward.
Contemplating
Taking a moment.
Contractions
The mom-of-two said she was in labor for 14 hours, but “time really flew” thanks to pain management.
A steady hand
And, of course, the support of her husband.
Anora arrives
“When I look back at these photos, I can remember exactly how I felt. I can relive the moment my daughter was born,” said Robinson-Ward.
Doc’s on board
Luckily the doctor was all for her wielding a camera during the labor.
Cutting the cord
The mom managed to capture the most special moments of the life-changing experience.
Bonding
The photographer handed the camera to her mother after Anora was born, and she too started snapping away.
Adorable
Such a precious moment.
Overcome with emotion
There are no words.
Skin to skin
Mom and baby had immediate skin-to-skin contact, and Anora breastfed straight away.
Gorgeous
Robinson-Ward describes her baby daughter as a “mellow, happy baby.”
Doting dad
“I loved seeing my husband’s face the moment he saw our daughter for the first time,” said Robinson-Ward. “He was crying. He was just so happy.”
Brand new and beautiful
Tiny feet just have to be photographed.
Getting checked
Every aspect of the birth experience was captured on camera.
Precious bundle
Too cute.
That hair!
Can we just take a moment to appreciate that incredible head of hair?
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