Birth of Finn | Baptist Hospital, Pensacola Birth Photographer

The birth of Finn at Baptist Hospital was a whirlwind of emotions and challenges, but capturing the moments for Brian and Amber was an honor and a privilege. As I arrived at the hospital, I could sense the anticipation and nerves in the air. I knew that this would be a special and powerful experience to document through my lens.

Amber had dreamed of an unmedicated birth, but due to blood pressure issues, she was induced early and confined to the bed on Magnesium. It was a long and exhausting labor, with slow progress and moments of uncertainty. I could see the determination and strength in her eyes as she pushed through each contraction, hoping for the best for her precious baby.

As we neared the moment of truth, it became clear that Finn wasn't descending as expected, and a c-section seemed inevitable. The decision was made, and Amber and Brian were about to be whisked away to the OR. When the Doctor on call decided Amber should try pushing one more time.

The third round of pushing was… no more successful. Everyone suited back up to move to the OR. I couldn't accompany them due to restrictions, so I handed my camera to Brian. Even though he’s been a photographer in the past, he decided he’d be more comfortable just using his iPhone. I took a few moments to ensuring his photos were set to RAW format so that I would be able to match them to my editing style.

The waiting room was filled with anxious family members, all eagerly awaiting news of the new arrival. Time seemed to stand still as we waited for Finn to make his grand entrance into the world. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, we received word that baby Finn had arrived safely. But that none of his family would be allowed back for at least 2 hours.

Rather than stay the 2 hours after birth that I normally do, I documented a few minutes of the newborn exam and some skin to skin time with a promise to come back the next day,. I timed my return to the hospital to capture those precious first moments of bonding between Finn and his family for late afternoon when I knew the sun would stream into the giant windows. The room was filled with brilliant, natural light, perfect for creating those intimate and emotional images that would round out the story of Finn's birth.

Although the journey to Finn's arrival was fraught with challenges and unexpected turns, the love and joy that filled the room as Brian and Amber held their baby for one of the first times was palpable. As a birth photographer in Pensacola, FL, moments like these remind me of the incredible power of capturing life's most precious moments through the art of photography. Finn's birth was a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit, and I was honored to be a part of their story.