Waiting on Baby: The Beauty of Being On Call

One of my favorite parts of being a birth photographer isn't just documenting the moment a baby takes their first breath. It's everything that happens before that moment.

When I'm on call for a birth, I'm checking in with Mom every single day. How are you feeling? Have contractions changed? What does today look like? Do we need to rearrange plans? How can I help? How can I encourage you?

Being a birth photographer is so much more than showing up with a camera.

It's walking alongside families during one of the biggest moments of their lives. It's praying with them, encouraging them, reminding them that they are doing an amazing job, and helping them remember that their sweet baby will come.

The waiting can feel so long.

Our minds often have a timeline all planned out. We think baby should arrive by this date or that day. But babies have a way of reminding us that they don't always follow our schedules.

So sometimes we have to sit back, relax (I know... easier said than done!), take a deep breath, and trust the incredible way God designed our bodies.

The Lord created women's bodies to do something absolutely miraculous. He created them to bring forth life. What an amazing gift that is.

And while we trust His timing, I'm also incredibly thankful for His provision through medicine. God's mercies are seen in so many ways, including the skilled hands of midwives, nurses, and physicians. When intervention becomes necessary, we can rejoice that those resources are available to help bring our babies safely into the world.

Right now, one incredibly strong mama I'm waiting on will soon be 42 weeks, and she is trucking on like an absolute champion. Every day I check my phone with excitement, wondering if today will be the day.

Sweet baby girl, we are all so ready to meet you.

I cannot wait to witness your first cry, your parents' first tears, and the moment your family finally holds you in their arms. Those are the moments that remind me why I love birth photography so much.

They're real.

They're powerful.

They're unforgettable.

And when your story begins earthside, I'll be there, quietly documenting every beautiful second.

Megan Ivery Photography

Capturing the beauty, strength, and sacred moments of birth.

Visit iverybirthphotography.com to learn more about birth photography and what it's like to have someone by your side from the waiting to the first hello.