I’m not quite sure where to start with this sweet family. I’ve had the honor of photographing so many seasons for them! First, I got to document the pregnancy, birth, and newborn session of their daughter, Eleanor. Then, I got to photograph their second pregnancy with their son, James, who couldn’t join us here on earth. Finally, they asked me to be a part of the birth of their rainbow baby, Jack (see his sweet newborn session HERE). I don’t know how to adequately express the joy it brings me to watch families grow and capture the beauty of their lives year after year.
When Lauren texted me at 37 weeks to tell me she was being induced, I was shocked! I was on-call for another birth at the time and wasn’t expecting to photograph this one first. But we were all so excited to meet sweet baby Jack! So we made the plan and I arrived after Lauren had been admitted and the induction had begun.
The emotions were high in the room as everyone just wanted baby Jack here and safe. Lauren’s mom, a midwife, joined them and helped take care of their daughter while waiting for baby boy.
Lauren and James passed the time by watching some sweet videos of their daughter, Eleanor.
Lauren and James have always been an amazing team, but to see them work together and be there for each other as they welcomed their baby boy was amazing. James was right by Lauren’s side, holding her hand and letting her cry when she needed to. Then, seemingly all of a sudden, it was time to push!
Only a few short pushes and sweet baby Jack was here! He was tiny and perfect! James cut the cord and they admired their precious boy with huge smiles on their faces.
Jack needed a little help breathing so he was taken to the warmer. Thankfully, he never needed to leave the room and James stayed with him throughout the process.
These three seriously melt my heart. James and Lauren were mesmerized by their boy and started making plans for their daughter to come meet him. These first moments together are so special and unlike anything else!
Once they were able to move to their postpartum room, I joined them and waited for Eleanor to arrive to meet her brother! I love getting to photograph siblings meeting for the first time!!
She was so excited and even wore her stethoscope (just like her cardiologist daddy). I have no words for the photos below:
Thank you, Smith family, for trusting me to capture so many precious moments in your life! I’m so happy I could be a part of your babies’ births!
To see more birth stories, click HERE. To inquire about having me document your birth, click HERE.