Mel Swanson 10/30/15 Mel Swanson 10/30/15

sedona

originally this darling family booked me to photograph the homebirth of their surprise baby. part of being a birth photographer is keeping an open mind to the changes and unpredictability of birth. really, that's all part of the fun!

when labor began a few weeks early, mama ended up with a different birth team than originally planned. new faces during such an intimate time would make anyone feel more vulnerable. i was ready for the call to come photograph when the family let me know they changed their mind. of course, i was supportive of their decision. i let them know there is so much to still celebrate and photograph after the birth. i came back a few weeks later to their adorable Portland bungalow and photographed them bonding with their perfect, little girl.

Mel Swanson 10/15/15 Mel Swanson 10/15/15

caroline

sometimes you just *barely* miss it. when you pull up to a home expecting to quietly come into a birthing space to photograph it can be pretty surprising to see the midwife's car pulled up on the lawn sideways. my first thought was that baby must be here! and i was right!

these first moments make my heart swoon!
documenting parents and their fresh babies getting to know each other is such an honor.

Mel Swanson 9/20/15 Mel Swanson 9/20/15

Northwest Mothers Milk Bank Donor Event

I was honored to photograph a Donor Appreciation event for Northwest Mothers Milk Bank. Their work is dear to heart and they make such a difference to little babies in need. It was a joy to work with them and all of the great donor families!

Local Milk is Local Love

"We believe milk donors are local heroes; saving babies drop by drop! With one of the highest breastfeeding rates in the nation, NW moms have milk!

This vital, local resource makes a significant difference in the health outcomes of premature and ill infants. Milk donors are volunteers; lovingly offering the unique gift of breastmilk to other babies in their own communities."

Mel Swanson 9/18/15 Mel Swanson 9/18/15

schaffer

oh those sweet newborn smells, cries, and meaningful stares. there's nothing like looking into the eyes of a person who has spent the last several months living inside another human. what stories those eyes can tell of this big adventure they've been on.

sometimes i like to imagine what they'd share. maybe schaffer remembers the song dad would sing to him before bed while holding mom's belly waiting for a nudge or kick. maybe he remembers how mom's heart-rate would ease into a beautiful rhythm when she was relaxed. maybe he remembers the feeling of open, gentle hands as he emerged from mom in their bed at home.

...just stuff i think about. ;)

i also love that grandma was able to be there during this intimate time. photos of different generations are priceless and definitely pull at my heart strings.