birth photography Archives - CHICAGO WEDDING & FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

Chicago hospital birth photographer | Gabriel’s Birth Story

No matter where you choose to birth your sweet little being, I am always honored to be a part of the team. Being a Chicago hospital birth photographer is a magical experience. You get to witness so much strength and transformation in one room. Specifically, Sophia had a very laid-back active labor. She did so well throughout the process.

First-time moms can be unpredictable. Consequently, you have to surrender and accept that many things are out of your control. I feel like Sophia rode the wave of acceptance beautifully. I was there to capture every image of her and her husband. Furthermore, her maternity images were very special to shoot. Being a Chicago hospital birth photographerin a medical setting is different than being at home.

mom and dad Chicago hospital birth photographer documenting labor

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Mama touching belly during birth Chicago hospital birth photographer documenting labor

moms feet Chicago hospital birth photographer documenting labor

Chicago hospital birth photographer documenting labor

Capturing Strength with a Chicago hospital birth photographer

Additionally, the challenge at the hospital is maintaining a level of vulnerability. We must work within a more controlled landscape. In fact, lighting can actually be better in the hospital because they require visibility at all times. Overall, I have had the best experiences with hospital staff. This hospital was no different. Therefore, the environment felt very supportive for the family.

Moreover, I love the unique energy of a hospital arrival. Since every birth is different, I am always ready for anything. As a result, we captured the raw emotions of Gabriel coming into the world. Whether it is the quiet moments of labor or the first breath, the magic is undeniable. Instead of a quiet house, the hospital buzzes with a different kind of excitement.

A person sleeping on a couch under a blanket in a dimly lit room with a window covered by sheer curtains.

Pregnant woman smiling in a hospital bed with medical equipment and a floral wall decoration in the background.

A patient resting in a hospital bed with a peaceful expression, IV line attached, surrounded by medical equipment.

A caregiver adjusting a pillow for a patient lying in a hospital bed, with medical equipment visible in the background.

A close-up of two hands holding each other, with one person lying in bed and appearing to be asleep.

A pregnant woman in a hospital bed, preparing for labor, illuminated in low light.

A close-up view of a newborn being delivered, with medical professionals assisting in the process.

A dimly lit hospital room with a newborn baby in a bassinet, attended by a healthcare worker and a man observing the scene, featuring medical equipment in the background.

Close-up of a baby's feet with a diaper, resting on a soft blanket.

A newborn baby lying on a striped blanket in a medical setting, surrounded by medical equipment.

In conclusion, I enjoy every minute of my work. Whether it is a home birth or a hospital birth, the story is what matters. So, I am glad I could document Gabriel’s first moments. Lastly, thank you for following my journey. If you need a Chicago hospital birth photographer, please reach out! Thank you for supporting my art and my business.”

Being a Chicago Birth Photographer means seeing humans fall in love for the first time with a stranger.

October 11, 2023

Home Birth Photographer Chicago: Home Birth is Here to Stay

Whenever I tell someone I am a home birth photographer in Chicago, they often think I mean “birds.” Perhaps it is a little bit of my accent, or the fact that “th” endings can be hard! Regardless, we usually have a little awkward exchange where I explain that I mean births—humans giving birth.

Their faces always show a mix of awe, curiosity, and concern. This is especially true after I mention home birth. However, it fills me with great joy to do such a unique job. I love that people hire me to create art out of their most intimate moments. In fact, being a trusted part of a team that welcomes a little one is a true honor.

Why You Should Hire a Home Birth Photographer in Chicago

Birth is raw and real. It is a beautiful mix of power and vulnerability. Actually, it is buckets full of vulnerability! I was lucky enough to be hired for this beautiful family’s second home birth. Hannah is an incredible mama and human. Consequently, I was so glad to witness their strength together again.

This second birth was a bit different, and I even managed to get a little nap in! Because birth is so unpredictable, I find that I live for that excitement. I always cry the minute the baby arrives. When you see the relief on a mom’s face, the world stops for a minute. Ultimately, something marvelous just occurred. It is pure magic.

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Home birth photographer Chicago mom getting in bed to rest

Home Birth Photography is Here to Stay

As a home birth photographer in Chicago, I see firsthand how comfortable families are in their own space. This comfort allows for a level of intimacy that is hard to capture elsewhere. Many families worry about the chaos of birth, but my goal is to find the quiet, steady rhythm within it.

Photography is the best way to have something tangible to hold. Memories of birth can be a blur, but a photograph stays with you forever. In addition, these images become your family’s first heirloom. For anyone looking for a home birth photographer in Chicago, I would be honored to document your unique story and preserve these fleeting moments for generations to come.

A pregnant person in a semi-nude posture leaning over a bed covered with sheets, supported by another person behind them in a dimly lit room. home birth photographer chicago

A cozy bedroom scene featuring a bed with colorful pillows and a blue blanket. Soft lighting from string lights illuminates the room, with a piece of art on the wall depicting an abstract figure. home birth photographer chicago

Black and white image of two people lying closely together in bed, wrapped in a blanket and appearing relaxed in a cozy setting. home birth photographer chicago

A couple embracing in a softly lit room, captured from a distance. The scene conveys warmth and intimacy, with cozy home decor visible. home birth photographer chicago

A woman sitting in a birthing pool in a dimly lit room, with a person partially visible in a 'Ride-Rail' shirt standing nearby. The room has a bed and soft lighting decorations. home birth photographer chicago

A pregnant woman in a birthing pool receiving support during labor, set in a cozy indoor environment.

A close-up view of a person's back showcasing colorful tattoos, including flowers and a butterfly, with a softly blurred figure in the background. home birth photographer chicago

A pregnant woman in labor is being comforted by her partner while a midwife assists in a cozy bedroom setting.

A person lying on a bed, covering their face with their hands, appearing distressed or overwhelmed. Soft, natural light filters through the room, highlighting colorful pillows.

A woman standing in a doorway, smiling, wearing a plaid shirt in a softly lit room.

A close-up image of two people embracing, with one person resting their head on the other's shoulder. The shirt of the person being hugged features logos of different beverages.

A silhouette of a pregnant person standing in a doorway, partially visible, with a bathroom in the background.

A man and woman are engaged in a task in a bright kitchen, with the woman leaning over a sink and the man standing behind her.

A couple shares an intimate moment, embracing and gazing at each other in a softly lit bathroom.

A woman in a dimly lit room appears to be in labor, showing signs of discomfort, while a supportive partner stands nearby, visibly concerned.

A woman stands in a bright bathroom, holding her head in her hand, with natural light streaming in from a window.

A man standing in a narrow hallway, with arms crossed and eyes closed, illuminated by soft natural light from a nearby window, captured in black and white.

A woman in a birthing pool, leaning forward with her elbows on the edge, while a partner holds her hands, providing support. The background includes a bed with pillows and a crib.

A pregnant person helping a child navigate stairs in a home setting, depicted in black and white.

Black and white photo of two pairs of bare feet stepping over a broom handle on a wooden floor, with a textured rug in the foreground.

A woman holds her newborn baby wrapped in a towel, surrounded by supportive individuals during a home birth in a birthing pool, captured in black and white.

a baby being born in water during a home birth in chicago serene underwater scene.

A couple in a birthing pool, with the woman holding a newborn wrapped in a towel, both looking emotional. The setting is intimate and private, with minimal furnishings visible in the background.

A black and white image of a shirtless man gently holding a newborn baby in his arms, with a softly blurred background showing a cozy interior.

A mother gently cradles her newborn baby wrapped in a red blanket, both lying on a bed with striped pillows.

January 20, 2023

Arlington Heights Home Birth | Lightning Fast Birth Story

Arlington Heights Home Birth: A Story of Strength

WOA BABY! Back in April, I had the incredible experience of a lifetime. I watched a beautiful mama catch her sweet baby boy. This Arlington Heights home birth was a powerful reminder of how unpredictable and amazing birth can be. It was a journey that spanned two nights and tested everyone’s patience.

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Patience During an Arlington Heights Home Birth

I was called over on the first night, but no baby arrived that day. Consequently, I spent time getting to know her incredible birth team. Interestingly, she had never had anyone present for her two prior births. When her progress stalled at 4 cm, she decided to wait. She allowed the baby to stay put for as long as he needed. Remember, patience is a virtue in any home birth.

As a Chicago Birth Photographer I believe birth is a process that requires trust in your body. Furthermore, many families find that learning about Evidence Based Birth helps them feel more empowered during their journey. Remember, patience is a virtue in any Arlington Heights home birth.

DAY TWO

The Lightning Fast Arrival

The second night, we were called over again. I opted to take the highway because I wasn’t sure how quick things would move. Man, am I glad I took the faster route! That sweet boy arrived extremely fast. I reached the house, and within 15 minutes, he was here. In a blink of an eye, the family grew by one.

She is a total badass for her strength during this home birth. Furthermore, I feel so lucky to have captured such an intimate moment. Seeing a mother’s instinct take over is something I will never forget. It was a beautiful display of human connection and raw emotion.

Emotional mother catching her baby boy at home in Arlington Heights. Home Birth

Documenting the strength of a mama during her Arlington Heights home birth.

the shock of a new baby in the hands of a mother on the bed. Arlington Heights Home Birth

Mother and newborn baby boy sharing skin-to-skin time in Arlington Heights IL.

dad calling the midwife as only baby doctor made it to the quick birth

Supportive partner during the final stages of an Arlington Heights home birth.

home birth in Arlington Heights IL

mother soon after having her newborn son .

dad carrying his newly woken up daughters to meet their new brother

toddler rubbing her sleepy face Arlington Heights Home Birth

quiet moment between mother and her girls A quiet moment of family connection after an Arlington Heights home birth.

A quiet moment of family connection after an Arlington Heights home birth.

dad taking a photograph during the home birth of his son in Arlington Heights nurse to his right

more check ups and the toddler joined us to meet his new brother A quiet moment of family connection after an Arlington Heights home birth.

dad at birth having skin to skin with newborn baby wrapped in blanket

oldest daughter laying on mom after home birth

midwife exam checking on newborn after Arlington heights Home Birth

freelanced creative of a newborn baby boy in arlighton heights Home Birth

Newborn baby boy's first moments during an Arlington Heights home birth.

Tiny newborn feet captured during an Arlington Heights home birth session.

emotional moments after the birth of a mother having her first meal with her oldest daughter Arlington Heights Home Birth

connection moments between family after the birth of their son Arlington Heights Home Birth

Documenting Your Birth Story

As a birth photographer, I strive to capture the truth of these moments. Whether the birth is slow or fast, every story deserves to be told. If you are planning an home birth, I would love to document your journey. You can learn more about my birth packages here to see how I work. I hope you enjoy these glimpses into such a transformative night!

June 10, 2019

Downtown Chicago Birth Story | Evangelista-The Adri Photo Co.

“My mother groaned, my father wept, / into the dangerous world I leapt.” William Blake. The power of women never ceases to amaze me. I especially feel this when documenting a downtown Chicago birth as intense as this one. This session was the longest in my portfolio. It was full of beautiful drama and a baby boy who truly made an entrance.

mother birthing at home Emotional documentary photography of a downtown Chicago birth.

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The Setting: A Downtown Hospital Story

There is a specific energy that comes with a Chicago birth. Outside the hospital windows, the city continues its frantic pace—sirens, traffic, and the hum of the Loop. But inside the labor and delivery suite, time seems to stand still. I watched as the light shifted over the skyscrapers, casting long shadows across the room while this mama worked through each surge. Capturing a birth as a Chicago birth photographer allows me to juxtapose the massive scale of the city with the intimate, quiet strength of a woman bringing life into the world.

The Emotion: Strength and Surrender

She had a plan, and she fulfilled it with such grace. As a photographer, I am often struck by the moment of “the shift”—when the room goes from intense focus to an overwhelming wave of relief. This downtown Chicago birth ended with tears of joy that felt like a huge wave of love washing over everyone present. Every hour of that long journey was worth it the moment he arrived. It was a reminder of why I love documentary birth photography; these are the stories that deserve to be told exactly as they happened.

husband watching mom Emotional documentary photography of a downtown Chicago birth.

Planning Your Downtown Chicago Birth

Preparing for a downtown Chicago birth often involves a lot of logistics, but the photography shouldn’t be one of them. Whether you are delivering at Prentice, Rush, or University of Chicago, my goal is to remain a “fly on the wall,” documenting the strength and quiet moments that often go unnoticed in the whirlwind of labor. This session took place at Prentice Women’s Hospital, one of my favorite spots for a Chicago birth photographer story because of the incredible natural light.”