I feel like this post could be incredibly long, so I will try to be mindful of my words and let you get to the photos (unless you skip ahead, which is totally fine too!).

 Birth is powerful. No matter how a child is born, it’s a powerful moment, full of emotion and love. I had the honor of documenting Gavin’s birth story this week. It was, without a doubt, the best thing I have ever professionally photographed (sorry, Brides!). It was a few days past their due date when I got the call from Jen. Things were in motion and it looked like labor was on! I was nearly as excited as when I first realized that I, myself, was in labor. My camera bag had been packed for days, but I double checked that everything was in working order, called Norah’s grandmother to see if she could possibly watch her later that day, and went on with my business, waiting for additional information. Around 7 p.m. I was told that things were a go and that they were ready for me to meet them at Babymoon Inn. Once I arrived at the birth center, I checked in with Pat & Jen and quietly began documenting their birth story. Jen labored long and hard and Pat’s support was constant. They both also had the support of the staff at Babymoon Inn and their families. After laboring all night long, in the bath, shower, using helpful birth tools, walking around the neighborhood, they were eventually transferred to St. Joe’s hospital where labor progressed and, after days/hours of intense labor, Gavin was born. His arrival was incredibly special. I held it together until the moment that Jen realized how close she was to the end; finally meeting her son face to face. Her expression changed and it was just too much to witness without shedding a tear of joy. She was almost done! It was time. Pat was able to assist and eventually deliver his son and place him on Jen’s chest. Everyone was elated. We had just witnessed these two become parents. Jen was instantly loving on her son and Pat quickly switched over from supportive husband/labor coach to enamored Daddy. It was an amazing experience to be present for this birth and I am forever grateful that they trusted me to capture it.

Please enjoy the following images that Pat & Jen have graciously given permission for me to share.

The video slideshow is modest. 

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Thank you to Jen & Pat, their families, the staff at both medical facilities and my Mother-In-Law and Husband, for caring for our baby into the night and being "on call". :)