Photography coverage of your labour, delivery, and those first, unforgettable moments when you meet your baby.
Documenting the moment your story becomes theirs — the beginning of everything.
Birth Photography from an internationally published, certified birth photographer. Based in Ontario — Serving London, Toronto, & Surrounding Areas
Birth photography captures vulnerability, strength, and love—not just for you, but for your child, who will one day see how they came into the world.
They will see who was there, how love filled the room, and just how deeply they were wanted.
And while birth photography gives you the gift of remembering, it also gives you the freedom to be in the moment. You don’t have to worry about grabbing a phone or asking your partner to take photos. You can be fully present, knowing that every detail—the anticipation, the intensity, the first breath, the first cry, the first time your baby is placed in your arms—is being documented with care.
Birth photography isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. While birth is often seen as something to fear or hide, I see it as something to honour and bear witness to. Birth photography is a tangible way of preserving one of the most raw, powerful, and transformative experiences of your life.
When I tell people I photograph births, they often assume I mean newborns. I politely tell them that, well yes, I do—but I also photograph the labour and delivery. Everything.
I can almost always rely on one of two responses:
"Really!? Wow! Why!? Do people really want that photographed!?"
or
"Really!? Wow! I wish I had a birth photographer when I had my babies!"
Why choose
birth photography?
It's the little moments on those big days that mean everything.
My goal is to document birth in its truest form—honest, timeless, and deeply personal—so that when you look back at these images, you don’t just remember what happened, you remember how it felt. Birth photos are more than images; they are a legacy.
As an internationally published and certified birth photographer, I bring both expertise and deep respect to the birth space. I have the training and experience to document your story with artistry and discretion, ensuring that every moment is captured with sensitivity and skill.
Why Choose Jessica Barnett Photography?
Every birth story is different. Each one deserves to be seen, honoured, and remembered.
Whether you need a documentarian, a quiet support, or simply someone who sees and honours your experience, I adapt to what you need. My priority is that you feel safe, respected, heard, and cared for.
What does that mean for you?
As your birth photographer, I am a quiet, calming presence, always honoured to be welcomed into your birthing space. I blend into the background, capturing your story as it unfolds with deep respect and an intuitive understanding of the moment. I am not just a photographer; I am someone who holds space for you, in whatever way you need it.
A Calm, Respectful Presence: I work discreetly, honouring your wishes and ensuring I’m never in the way during such an intimate time.
Moments that Feel True to You: Whether it’s your partner’s steady hand in yours, the first time you hold your baby, or the unwavering support and care of your birth team, I focus on capturing the genuine emotions of your story.
Photos Full of Meaning: Every image is thoughtfully composed to reflect not just what happened, but how it felt.
What you can expect
I promise to be open to all and to celebrate diversity in every form — honouring all types of birth, birthing persons, families, locations, and birthing practices. I am committed to celebrating people of all races, genders, orientations, and birthing stories with respect and care.
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I promise to recognize that the birthing space is deeply personal and vulnerable. I promise to document, observe, and provide quiet support in a respectful, unobtrusive way that aligns with the energy of the space.
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I promise to be your advocate and ensure that your needs and wishes are respected and supported.
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My promises to you
Click on images to enlarge
Featured births
Wren
Michael Garron Hospital
Toronto, ON
View Gallery
Abigail
Victoria Hospital London Health Sciences Centre
London, ON
View Gallery
Birth photography isn’t just about photos.
It’s about remembering how it felt to become a parent, to meet your baby, and to be fully seen in one of life’s most powerful moments.
Frequently Asked Questions
THE ESSENTIALS
How Much does birth photography cost?
I’d love to walk you through what’s included when you book me for your birth story. Since every birth is unique, I offer a detailed pricing guide that covers everything you can expect. Just reach out, and I’ll be happy to share it so we can chat about what works best for you and your family.
How many images will I receive?
I know this is such a big moment, and you want to remember every detail. Because every birth unfolds differently, I don’t set a limit on the number of images you receive. My focus is always on telling the full story of your baby’s arrival.
Most galleries include 125-175 images, but ultimately, I deliver as many as it takes to ensure nothing important is missed—those quiet moments, emotional reactions, your first sweet snuggles with your new baby, and your baby's tiny newborn features. You’ll walk away with a complete story you can relive for years to come.
Do you edit in colour, or black and white?
Both! While I absolutely love black and white images (they do such a phenomenal job of stripping away everything and showcasing emotion), your gallery will absolutely include colour images too.
If you have a preference, just let me know. This is your story, and I want you to love the way it’s told.
Most galleries include 125-175 images, but ultimately, I deliver as many as it takes to ensure nothing important is missed—those quiet moments, emotional reactions, your first sweet snuggles with your new baby, and your baby's tiny newborn features. You’ll walk away with a complete story you can relive for years to come.
Will you need to use a camera flash?
I promise I’m always mindful of keeping your space calm and comfortable for you. Whenever possible, I rely on natural light to create a soft, documentary feel.
That said, many babies love to arrive in the middle of the night when lighting can be tricky. If needed, I’ll turn on a small light–like a hallway lamp–if available. If still necessary, I use a small, indirect bounce flash. It allows me to capture crisp, beautiful images while staying as unobtrusive as possible. Most parents don’t even notice it’s being used.
If you’re worried about it, we will talk through everything ahead of time, and you can always tell me in the moment if something’s bothering you. Your comfort comes first, always.
How Graphic will my photos be?
This is your experience, and your baby’s birth story— so it’s entirely up to you. Some families want every detail documented, including crowning and placenta photos, while others prefer a more modest approach focused on emotion and connection.
We’ll talk in detail ahead of time so I know exactly what you’re comfortable with. And even in the moment, if you change your mind, just let me know—I’m there to respect your boundaries every step of the way.
When Should I let you know I'm in Labour?
Great question—this is something we’ll chat about well before the big day. In general, I ask that you or your birth partner check in with me early, even if you’re not sure it’s “go time” yet. I’d always rather know too soon than too late.
Typically, I aim to arrive when you’re in active labor (around 5-6 cm if it’s your first baby, or when contractions are strong and consistent). But every story is different, so together, we’ll plan what feels best for you based on your history and preferences.
Once I’m there, I stay about 2 hours postpartum to capture those first golden-hour moments—skin-to-skin, the first feed, all of your baby’s little details that you’ll want to remember forever.
WHAT IFS, PRIVACY & REASSURANCE
Will my birth photos be shared online?
Your birth story is incredibly personal, and I treat it that way. I only share images if you’ve given me explicit permission—and even then, we’ll go over exactly what you’re comfortable sharing.
Many families love having their story told, while others prefer to keep it entirely private. Either way, I fully respect your choice. Consent matters deeply to me.
What happens if you miss the birth?
This is a big “what if,” and I completely understand the worry. (I haven't missed a birth yet!) Babies don’t follow schedules, and sometimes they arrive faster than expected. If that happens, please know I’ll still be there to document everything afterward—those first moments, your baby’s tiny details, and those precious first snuggles.
If needed, we can always add a Fresh 48 session to make sure you have beautiful images of your first hours together. Whatever happens, you won’t miss out on having your story captured.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for your arrival?
Not at all. Your only job is to focus on your birth and your baby –I’ll take care of the rest. My approach is to be a quiet, intuitive, and unobtrusive presence.
Some parents don’t even realize I’m there until after their baby arrives (and honestly, I take that as a compliment!). I read the room and match the energy—whether that means staying completely in the background or offering gentle encouragement when needed.
What happens if I have a c-section?
Whether your C-section is planned or unexpected, I’ll document as much of your birth as the hospital allows. I’ve been welcomed into the OR before (I was actually the first photographer to capture a C-section at Victoria Hospital!), but ultimately, it depends on the hospital team that day.
If the hospital doesn't allow me into the OR, I can pass my backup camera to your birth partner, or sometimes the nurses are happy to take a few photos for you. I'll meet you in the recovery room and continue documenting your first precious moments with your baby.
How does the on-call process work?
When you reach 38 weeks (or sooner depending on your history), I’m officially on call for you—24/7. That means no vacations, no long drives, no silent phones. I’m always ready, day or night, rain or snow, to drop everything and come when you need me.
And because life can be unpredictable, I also have a trusted backup photographer ready just in case something unforeseen happens. If that ever happens, I still personally edit every image, so your gallery feels completely like my work—the style you fell in love with.
When Should I book?
It’s best to book as early as possible—ideally in your second trimester—but it’s never too late to reach out. Since I also photograph weddings, and because births are unpredictable, I take on a limited number of birth clients to ensure I can be fully available for you. If you’re considering booking, don’t wait. Reach out to secure your spot.
Thank you so much for getting in touch; I look forward to learning more about you!
if you don't hear back from me within 24 hours, it's likely because your message didn't go through. my apologies!
if that's the case, please send me an email at jess@jessicabarnett.ca or call me at 226-236-4901
in the meantime, feel free to check out my social media pages, or browse photo galleries.
Thanks again!
- jess
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