What a special treasure to document this family's first professional photos (and first family shoot) ever.
I love Delray Beach.
It is quiet. It is filled with golden, toasty sunlight.
I love that the sun was gloriously setting as we arrived at the beach.
There's something special about our south Florida beaches. You can go every night, but the sand, water, clouds and light never look quite the same.
These parents love for their little girl shines brighter than anything.
Last night, I met with a birth client and her husband at a local coffee shop to talk about our plans for me documenting the birth of their first child. As we were talking about their midwife, the hospital they plan to birth in, I started noticing mom making some unsure comments about her pregnancy and birth. As a mom of two girls under 4, I have been pregnant twice and birthed twice, and I sure know what it feels like when you are pregnant with your first, EVERY THING is a new sensation, google is an open sea of information and you kind of don't even know where to begin educating yourself about birth or what to even trust and believe. When I got pregnant with my first child, I did not know what the word "doula" meant, I also had never even heard it spoken nor seen it written anywhere. I did not know what hypnobirthing was, and I'm sure if you had said that word to me I'd look at you a little weird and assume it had something to do with hypnotizing yourself during labor, right? That's hocus pocus isn't it? (I actually used hypnobirthing for my second birth and found that I loved it!) I didn't know back then that it mattered who you chose to be your medical provider and what hospital you chose to birth in.
So as my birth client and I were talking, I put the pause button on my birth contract and said, alright, I think we need to talk. Not birth photographer to client, but mom to mom. I want to take a leap of faith and talk to you about some stuff that I wish someone took the time to talk to me about when I was pregnant with my first. Because I am so sad and so disappointed in myself for not trying harder when I was pregnant with my first to go out of my comfort zone (beyond the four friends I had in my life who had been pregnant and had their kids within the span of 2 years who I assumed were all I needed to complete my knowledge on everything pregnancy and birth)
*This blog post / story has been approved by my dear sweet mama clients.
So let me mention two short words that make a big impact on birth:
Do you have one?
Did you know you should have one?
Not sure if a birth plan is for you? A good way to know is... do you have an idea of what you are expecting out of your pregnancy, as well as your labor & birth (other than a healthy mom & baby of course?)
Here is where google can actually be a big help. Go to google and type the words "birth plan" and then click on google images. You will find SO many birth plan suggestions. Browse through them and then write down in bullet points on a piece of paper things that are important to you.
You can go on Pinterest & Google and find great icons like these, put them together and laminate them and put them in your hospital bag. Make sure to take a picture of it with both your cell phone and your partner's cell phone (or anyone else who will be in the delivery room with you) in case you happen to forget your birth plan at home you can still show medical staff the things that are most important to you.
If you aren't sure if something on your birth plan is important or necessary, or a smart idea, be sure to look it up online. Look for links on websites that link to medical/university studies that provide real, unbiased facts.
But before all of that....
It is important to bring this birth plan with you to your prenatal visits during your pregnancy and go over everything with your provider. Make sure you're on the same page as far as everything you are planning for your ideal birth and that they aren't apprehensive of anything on your birth plan. If they are worried about something, be sure to discuss it in detail to understand how their concern affects you.
While you are doing your prenatal visits during your pregnancy.... Be sure to find out who backs up your medical provider in the event that they are not available the day you go into labor. Even if they say they will be, emergencies do happen. Make it a point to meet every provider (midwives and obgyns) who would be backing up your provider so that if any of those people end up helping you with your delivery, you are in the room with a familiar face who you know and trust.
I mispronounced this word for months. Is it pronounced "doola" or is it "doe-a-deer" doe-la???
(It's DOOLA)
9 times out of 10 I believe every woman in labor needs and deserves to have a doula supporting her. (The 1 time I can see it possibly not being necessary? A situation such as where mom has the support and confidence of her partner and they've done this before, and can verify that they got this all on their own. Some families who prepare for birthing using birth preparation classes such as The Bradley Method where partners learn how to coach moms through labor bradleybirth.com)
I was chatting with a friend who is expecting her second child. We were talking about doulas and how she has met with several and is just trying to decide on who is the right doula for her needs.
It is definitely not a one size fits all. Every doula has a different set of skills, experiences, a different personality and characteristics that make her the right doula for one mom, but not another.
So how do you find the right doula?
I told my friend to make a list of the things that are important to her in a doula, reasons she would want a doula present at her birth.
1. compassion, security, mama bear
She needs to be compassionate and gentle to me. She needs to be calm and soft spoken. She needs to be a patient and active listener so that she can really hear, understand and anticipate my needs during labor.
2. discretion
Birth is sacred and private.
Although doulas are not required (like medical personnel) to abide by HIPPA laws, (at least not in Florida), they should have a solid code of ethics and be extremely discrete about all their past client's pregnancies and birthing experiences.
3. sisterhood
The people who I want to surrounded myself with in my birthing space, I don't want it to end there. I want my child to know them. I want to look back and say, that person was there for me the way my family has been and is still an active part of my life. I want to remember and keep the bonds forged during the more intense and emotional days of my life.
4. dedication
I am a birth photographer, so although I am not a birth companion, to me, dedication to my job runs deep within my heart. I have two young children at home, but my family knows this is my career and they know it's not just a 9-5 job you can call out sick from. Unless there is a life threatening emergency happening with my family, I am dedicated to my birth mama when she is in labor, without any doubt. She comes first, before any of my own needs. I can put my life first any time of day, but when I am with my birth client, she is all I see and serve. And that is what I am looking for from my birth companion too.
5. support. focus. breathing.
Of course support and stellar focus and breathing assistance during birth is transparently vital.
6. advocate
Although I am not expecting my birth companion to speak on my behalf, I do expect them to help me to find courage and the voice within myself to be my own, informed advocate for my birth, especially when interventions become necessary. (When I say interventions, I am thinking of procedures like.... administering medications that help to strength contractions, checking for dilation, pain medication, etc.). But sometimes, interventions can make labor different from the experience you had envisioned. And sometimes, certain interventions may have alternatives that are just as effective and safe and may be less disturbing to a woman in labor.
In labor, you may find yourself focused and not always remember to ask what alternatives are available to a necessary intervention. Or if this invention is needed, if there is urgency, or if it can be postponed for a few hours.
If you are hoping for a birth with as few medical interventions as possible, and communicate that with your doula, she will be sure to go over any interventions that arise during labor and if they have alternatives and their pros and cons, to help you make an informed decision during your labor for the safest and closest outcome to your ideal birth plan.
Every decision during labor can affect how a woman ends up feeling about her birth.
7. curveballs
Sometimes, even if we have our ideal birth plan printed, copied, laminated, and discussed and agreed upon with our provider and hospital, things still may not go according to plan. One of my previous births mamas who had her first child this year said to me:
"have a plan but also come to terms that it's ok if your plan changes a little than what you plan. Because sometimes things don't go exactly as planned but no matter what know your labor will go exactly how it's supposed to go and that's perfect ."
So even when birth plans don't quite work out how we envision, and birth takes a turn of its own, having your birth doula prepared to remind you of basics that are easy to forget during labor such as reminding medical staff to explain any medical procedures being done or reminding you to ask staff what alternatives are available to certain non-emergent procedures, can leave a woman feeling like she had a say and some power in her birth. Because after all, this is no one else's birth but her own.
I often get birth inquiries where my clients have either chosen not to hire a doula or have not even known this is an option.
I find that lack of knowledge/awareness about what a doula is and what they can do for you during labor (and after birth) is usually the cause for why families decide not to hire one for their birth.
I am so respectful of all my families birth plans. Whether you are having a scheduled cesarean birth or are planning to birth at home, I will honor and serve you. What I find with many (not all, but many) moms is that they are simply unaware of what they are missing out on when they actively choose to not hire a doula. I have had some really incredible experiences watching compassionate and experienced doulas during women's labors and I have seen labors without doulas.
Going back to my friend who is searching for a doula for her second birth. I was really curious about what she is looking for in a doula, after interviewing several and being uncertain who to choose. Here is the list she sent me:
Ok, things I'm looking for in a doula:
-personal connection is huge. This person is going to see me through a hugely personal and emotional time (where I will likely be completely naked!) so I want that comfort level
-confidence. I want someone who I know will take charge, be proactive, and knows their skills and how to use them. In the interview I want to be told about these skills so I don't leave feeling like "she was nice but what does she offer?"
-a feeling from me that the person is intuitive. When I'm in the throes of labor and don't know what I need, I want someone to be intuitive enough to see what I might need.
-laid-back personality. I interviewed a few women who were really cheerful and bubbly, and I just couldn't imagine that being calming. And I want confidence but not bossy or overbearing.
-massage is a big bonus for me, even though I'm not sure how much I wanted to be touched during birth last time! I didn't have a doula, however, just my husband who was well meaning but clueless! I love massage in general and think it could be a wonderful tool.
-Hypnobirthing knowledge. I took the classes and would love someone who is supportive and guiding during the tough times of labor when I have a hard time staying "in the zone."
-experience. Although I know everyone starts somewhere, I feel more reassured with knowledge. Same for the person being a mom. I interviewed a few who were not yet mothers and I respect that but I feel like there is something vital you learn having actual birthed a child.
I am horrible at asking questions, so it is comforting to me when someone can talk about themselves and what they bring to the table. The confidence for that person to provide me with that information, being prepared.
After listing these things that my friend is looking for in a doula, she asked me to also include the following in this blog post:
"I went into my first birth thinking "I practice yoga, I took Hypnobirthing, my mom will be there and she had 2 unmedicated births... I can do this without a doula!" Boy was I wrong. My husband was exhausted and unsure of how to help and I didn't know what I needed. I was so overwhelmed by the emotions and sensations that Hypnobirthing went out the window. I didn't push myself to eat or drink and ended up tired and dehydrated, which stalled labor. I needed a doula, I needed a guide. I never once lost my drive for my water birth, and ultimately had a good experience, but having a doula would have made it so much better for everyone. I now tell my expecting friends "just get the doula!" And my husband always chimes in in agreement!"
Addressing the question of the mom who may possibly not need a doula
Some moms who have birthed before and may know their bodies well enough that they can identify every sensation, whether pain or otherwise, and can assure themselves, this physical intensity is normal, this timeline is normal, I feel confident, safe, I can breathe all on my own, I am of sound mind through transition and as my baby is crowning, I reach down and I catch my own baby in my own hands.
These are the moms that know they have not needed a doula before, they will not need one again, they've done it on their own before and persevere in that atmosphere.
Most moms I have met in my lifetime are not the above mentioned mom.
Most of us need some level of support. Be it physical counter pressure for 23 hours on our lower back during labor or emotional support when we are not sure if we can do this anymore. Many times, when we get to this point, we are not the same resilient energetic person we tend to be everyday. Labor can be exhausting, it can be hard work for many moms. And after hours of labor, many moms do get to the point where they need someone who will be that resilient encouraging energetic person who will get them from active labor to holding their baby on their chest.
Moms, our partners are not a 24/7 coffee shop either. They do need a break when they've been providing us with support for hours upon end. Their muscles wear down and ache, and for some very lengthy labors that started right as you were about to go to sleep last night, but now you've been up through the entire night and it's already the next day, it is totally realistic and normal to see partners dozing off. But mama doesn't stop. She continues laboring. And she needs someone there for her at all times.
One of the things I most commonly hear from family and mommy friends is:
"I'm planning to labor naturally without medication, unless I can't handle the pain then I'll probably get an epidural."
There is nothing wrong with that birth plan. But before you commit to one plan or the other, consider a birthing class that will help you realize that first part of your birth plan. The laboring naturally until plan.
Ultimately, the goal is to have a healthy and happy mom & baby. But that does not mean that your ideal birth plan does not matter. Mama gets a voice in how and where she chooses to birth her baby. I want to see women who are supported in labor and who aren't fearful. That is the reason behind this blog post. When you look back on your birth photos, or think back on your birthing day, you want to see yourself surrounded by people who are there to serve you, your partner and your baby during labor. You want to remember feeling safe and sure of yourself.
So do not go into labor alone with a mentality of "we'll wait and see what happens"
Be prepared.
Have a plan.
(and a back up plan, and an emergency plan, and be flexible!)
But most of all....
Plan to be supported on your greatest first day as mom, your beautiful birthing day.
This blog post comes at a really striking time for me. Today is the one year anniversary of my birthing day with my second child. Today my little girl turns 1! In a way, writing this blog post, despite it not being my own personal birth story, it does give me some closure and shows me how much I've grown to understand about my own birth in the last 12 months.
This unforgettable morning home birth in Deerfield Beach, Florida defied expectations and cultural norms. A Brazilian mother, often accustomed to scheduled C-sections, embraced the power of natural childbirth and welcomed her second child, a beautiful baby girl, in the loving embrace of her home.
A Serene & Speedy Arrival: Precipitous Labor & Home Birth
The call came early Monday morning - labor was intense, contractions were close. I rushed to their home, capturing the final stages of a remarkably fast and empowering birth. With the expert guidance of midwives Gelena Hinkley and Sandy Lobaina (now of Natural Birthworks Birth Center in Margate), this mama achieved a VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean), a testament to her strength and determination.
A Father's Love: Catching His Daughter
Witnessing the father catch his newborn daughter was a moment of pure joy and connection. This intimate act, filled with love and wonder, is a testament to the beauty of family-centered birth.
From Beach Maternity to Blissful Birth: A Journey Captured
This incredible mama is no stranger to my lens. We had previously shared a magical maternity session on the beaches of Delray Beach, capturing the anticipation and excitement of her pregnancy. Witnessing her journey come full circle with the birth of her daughter was truly an honor.
Broward County Birth Photography & Videography: Preserving Your Story
As a dedicated birth photographer and videographer in Broward County, I'm passionate about documenting these transformative moments. From the serenity of a home birth to the excitement of a hospital delivery, I capture the raw emotions and connections that make each birth story unique.
Serving South Florida: Your Trusted Birth Storyteller
Whether you're in Deerfield Beach, Boca Raton, or anywhere in South Florida, I'm here to document your birth journey. My approach is respectful and unobtrusive, allowing you to focus on the experience while I create a visual legacy you'll cherish forever.
Contact Me Today: Limited Availability Through May 2025!
My calendar is filling up quickly. Don't miss the opportunity to have your birth story beautifully preserved.
remember my birth client who had her third baby in the car outside of Boca Raton Regional Hospital in April?
here she is with her baby girl, almost 4 months post partum, in all their beauty...
I photographed this just before the sun disappeared over the horizon.
Sunrise Maternity Magic in Boynton Beach: A Serendipitous Encounter
Sometimes, the most beautiful moments in life happen unexpectedly. This sunrise maternity session on the shores of Boynton Beach was one such occasion. The golden light, the gentle ocean breeze, and the radiant love between these two expectant mothers created a truly magical atmosphere.
A Connection Beyond Photography: A Fated Meeting
Looking back at these sacred pregnancy images, I'm filled with gratitude. Meeting this couple was a last-minute surprise, a serendipitous encounter that felt destined to be. I'm honored they chose me to capture this special chapter in their lives.
From Maternity to Miracle: Witnessing Their Twin Birth Story
This session was just the beginning of our journey together. I also had the incredible privilege of documenting the birth of their twins at Boca Raton Regional Hospital. Witnessing their love and strength as they welcomed their babies into the world was an unforgettable experience. You can catch a glimpse of their beautiful birth story by following the link below.
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As a dedicated maternity photographer in Boynton Beach and surrounding areas, I'm passionate about preserving the transformative beauty of pregnancy. Whether it's a sunrise session on the beach or an intimate in-home shoot, I strive to create images that reflect the unique joy and anticipation of this special time.
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Contact Me Today: Let's Create Timeless Memories
Are you expecting a little one? Let's create a maternity photography session that captures the essence of your love and anticipation.
The glow of a vibrant sunset, a blossoming baby bump, a passionate kiss, and the promise of new life – these are the elements that intertwined to create this unforgettable maternity photography session in Pembroke Pines, Florida.
A Journey to the Everglades: Capturing Radiant Love
The allure of the Everglades, with its golden sunsets and unique wildlife, drew us to this breathtaking location. A toasty summer evening painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, creating a backdrop as warm and radiant as the love shared between these two expectant mothers.
Even a surprise encounter with a couple of alligators couldn't dampen our spirits. We simply laughed, embraced the unexpected, and continued to create beautiful memories.
South Florida LGBTQ+ Maternity Photography: Celebrating All Families
As a dedicated maternity photographer in South Florida, I believe in celebrating love in all its forms. This session with these beautiful, same-gender parents was a reminder of the boundless joy and anticipation that surrounds every pregnancy. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where all families feel comfortable and celebrated.
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Contact Me Today: Let's Create Timeless Memories
Are you expecting a little one? Let's create a maternity photography session that celebrates your unique love story.
The quiet beauty of a Jupiter, Florida, home set the scene for a remarkable birth story. As a birth photographer serving Palm Beach, Broward, Martin, and St. Lucie Counties, I was honored to document this family's first steps into parenthood, capturing the raw emotions and profound connection that unfolded during their peaceful home birth.
A Client Turned Friend: Rochelle's Trust and Testimonial
Rochelle and her partner's commitment to a natural birth resonated deeply with me. They sought a tranquil, empowering experience, surrounded by trusted midwives in the comfort of their home. Their desire to document this transformative moment with artistry and respect aligned perfectly with my values as a birth photographer.
Rochelle's heartfelt words about our experience together reinforce the importance of my work:
“Paulina is the absolute BEST! She was always there for me the second I booked with her, in pregnancy! ALWAYS giving this first-time mama the emotional and spiritual support that I needed. We had an extremely long and complicated labor at home, and Paulina was there every single second of our labor, delivery & golden hour… Our photos came out absolutely picture perfect… Forever grateful for the gift that Paulina gave us and the gift of Paulina.”
The Magic of Home Birth: Serenity in Every Moment
Even the journey to their home was memorable. Driving through the humid April night, a sense of urgency mingled with excitement. The tranquil scene that awaited me upon arrival was a testament to the power of a well-planned home birth.
Unwavering Support: A Husband's Love
For 23 hours, Rochelle's husband remained her steadfast companion, offering unwavering support and encouragement. Their connection was profound, a silent testament to the enduring bond of partnership and parenthood.
Boca Raton Birth Photography: Capturing the Essence of Your Story
As a seasoned birth photographer, I understand the significance of these intimate moments. I'm dedicated to documenting births with sensitivity, capturing the raw emotions, tender connections, and the transformative power of welcoming new life.
Serving South Florida: Your Trusted Birth Photographer
Whether you're planning a home birth in Jupiter, a hospital birth in Boca Raton, or another birthing option in Palm Beach, Broward, Martin, or St. Lucie Counties, I'm here to document your unique story.
Contact Me Today: Limited Availability Through May 2025!
My calendar is filling up quickly. Don't miss the opportunity to have your birth story beautifully preserved.
There's a unique magic in the first 48 hours after a baby's birth, a fleeting time filled with raw emotions, tender moments, and the awe of new life. I recently had the privilege of capturing this precious window for a sweet family at Boca Raton Regional Hospital.
A Gentle Welcome: Family Bonds Deepen
This was a special session for me - witnessing a second-time mom embrace her newborn son with such love and tenderness. The atmosphere in the room was palpable; you could practically feel the family's joy, respect, and deep connection. It's these quiet, intimate moments that I'm passionate about preserving as a Boca Raton birth and family photographer.
Fresh 48 Photography: Capturing the First Precious Hours
Fresh 48 sessions are a beautiful way to document the earliest moments of your baby's life, capturing those tiny details and fleeting expressions that change so quickly. These photographs become a treasured heirloom, allowing you to relive the wonder of those first days again and again.
Boca Raton's Premier Birth & Family Photographer
With years of experience and a deep love for capturing life's most precious moments, I'm dedicated to providing families in Boca Raton and surrounding areas with stunning, heartfelt images. My approach is gentle and unobtrusive, allowing you to focus on bonding with your baby while I capture the magic unfolding around you.
Beyond the Hospital: Maternity, Newborn, and Family Sessions
In addition to Fresh 48 photography, I also offer a range of maternity, newborn, and family sessions. Let me help you create a visual legacy that celebrates the love and connection within your family.
Contact Me Today: Preserve Your Precious Memories
If you're expecting in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, or anywhere in South Florida, I'd be honored to capture your family's story. Reach out today to learn more about my services and how I can help you create lasting memories.
As the anticipation builds and a new life blossoms, there's a unique beauty in capturing the serene moments before a baby's arrival. I recently had the pleasure of spending a delightful afternoon with an expectant family on the picturesque beaches of Delray Beach.
Effortless Elegance: A Relaxed Maternity Session
With just weeks left until their little one's debut, this lovely mama and her partner exuded an air of carefree joy. Their easygoing nature and radiant smiles served as a reminder to pause, breathe, and savor the simple pleasures amidst the excitement of impending parenthood.
Anticipation & Excitement: Welcoming Baby Victoria
As their dedicated Boca Raton maternity photographer, I'm eagerly awaiting the call that baby Victoria has arrived. Documenting the birth of this little girl and witnessing this loving family expand will be an incredible honor.
Timeless Maternity Portraits: A Legacy of Love
This session resulted in some of my all-time favorite maternity photos. The couple's genuine happiness, their playful connection, and the palpable love they share create a visual narrative that speaks volumes. These images are a testament to the enduring beauty of family and the transformative power of pregnancy.
Luxury Maternity Photography: Serving Boca Raton, Delray Beach & Parkland
I specialize in creating exquisite maternity portraits that capture the essence of motherhood. Whether you prefer the serene backdrop of Delray Beach, the vibrant energy of Boca Raton, or the lush greenery of Parkland, I'll craft a personalized experience that reflects your unique style and vision.
Beyond the Bump: Capturing Your Family's Story
From maternity and newborn sessions to family portraits and milestone celebrations, I'm passionate about documenting the journey of parenthood. My approach is natural and unobtrusive, allowing you to relax and connect with your loved ones while I capture those candid, heartfelt moments.
Contact Me Today: Let's Create Timeless Memories
If you're expecting in South Florida and seeking a maternity photographer who understands the importance of capturing this special chapter, I'd love to hear from you. Let's create a visual legacy that you'll treasure for years to come.
I am entering into a Photography Breastfeeding Image Competition.
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Paulina Splechta Photography specializes in Birth Photography and Videography in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and South Florida.
Capture your birth story with beautiful images true to your family’s journey
Paulina Splechta Photography
561-400-8383
paulinasplechta@gmail.com
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