Birth photography requires being on call and ready to photograph and assist in the highly emotional atmosphere of child birth. It also requires being prepared for anything — including low light situations and emergencies. Lily Johnson of Burgh Babies began her photography journey as a second shooter at weddings when she was still in high school. As an adult, she worked a corporate job before becoming a birth doula, and then decided to offer birth photography as well. From there, she organically began serving other areas of motherhood with her photography, including maternity and motherhood.

She recently joined Nikki Closser on The Portrait System Podcast to talk about her business where she shared these tips for those considering photographing new moms and their babies.

1. Many times, new mothers have not had a chance to talk about their birthing experience. Compassionately listening to these stories is a great aid to mothers in processing that intense experience.
2. It is extremely helpful to new mothers if you keep your studio stocked with things they might need, including newborn diapers and a changing table.
3. If you provide service to new mothers that demonstrates your care for them, you’ll develop a reputation that leads to referrals.

Hear more from Lily Johnson in her Portrait System Podcast appearance, and learn more about her career path in the Q&A below. You can also follow her work on Facebook and Instagram.

Most artists have a point in their life when they knew this was meant for them. Do you have that moment?  

As a doula/birth photographer I worked with women in such an intimate setting first, and the connection was so natural that we built. It made so much sense to capture maternity/newborn and follow their journey into motherhood after we already built this great connection!  

 
How did you push past fear when building your business?  

I would rather bet on myself any day of the week! There is no guarantee with a traditional job role. I can guarantee that I’ll show up for myself, and I find comfort and inspiration in that!  

 
Making a connection with your subject is one of the most important parts of a great portrait. How do you make lasting connections with your clients?  

My clients are so so vulnerable with me, and I share that vulnerability right back. My struggles with postpartum, pregnancy, motherhood are all connection points. I check in along the way, reaching out with encouraging words, but most importantly, I set up the whole experience start to finish to consider them. Their healing body during a newborn shoot can be tended to with a basket of care goodies in the bathroom. We have plenty of places to sit and pillows to nurse with. We let babies guide the sessions with naps and breaks. We have patience and compassion for the season of life they are in.  

 
For someone starting out on their photography journey what advice would you have for them?  

Know your camera, and know your numbers, and build from there starting out. If you aren’t ready to charge what is sustainable, photograph friends and family while you gain experience. It is much harder to undo a reputation you build if it is either negative or cheaply built. Once you gain experience and mentoring/training, start by offering a high-quality experience at the price point that is sustainable, and you will find your ideal clients! 

As a thank you to our readers, we’re pleased to offer you a Rangefinder exclusive discount code to get 25% off The Portrait Masters course below. Use the code RF25 at checkout to redeem. This code cannot be used in combination with other sales.