Beautiful Home Birth Photography and Film | Maui, Hawaii | Jenae + Justin + Stevie ‘Ōhia
Why I Love Birth Photography
Maui birth photography and films has become my passion. Ever since I documented my first home birth, I knew I wanted to keep telling birth stories. As I also photograph weddings and elopements, as well as family and maternity sessions, the scheduling can be a challenge. My camera bags have to be packed, phone on loud every night, and ready to drop everything and head to the birth at any given time around the “due date”. After each birth I attend, I’m reminded of why clearing my schedule to be available for this magic moment is worth it in every way. There are no words for the beauty that transpires as a baby transitions from the womb and into the world to locks eyes with their ohana. I remain a fly on the wall while documenting a birth: quiet, observant. A keepsake to pass on for generations is created through photographs and film by witnessing the range of emotions, extraordinary strength, and open-hearted surrender that happens during birth.
Jenae and Justin welcome Stevie ‘Ōhia
These two incredible humans invited me into their home to photograph and film the birth of their first child. Stevie ‘Ōhia entered the world wide-eyed and curious — a beautiful little wahine. I’m honored to share Jenae and Justin’s birth story, and so inspired by their ohana! So grateful to meet this family, Jenae is the sweetest soul and you can learn more about her offerings at: http://jenaetag.com.
Jenae and Justin’s Maui Home Birth Film
I love making films during home births. There is something about reliving this life-changing experience through music and movement, two of my favorite things in the world. A birth film that encapsulates the journey is always included when I document a birth story.
The Birth Story
I came over the night before Stevie was born, but the midwives told me it may be awhile and to get some rest and be on call. I drove home and got a bit of sleep, and woke up Jenae’s sister calling me around 4:45am. I quickly made coffee and hopped in the car to make the hour drive to the west side of the island, tears filling my eyes as I watched the colors change on the ocean as the sun prepared to come up. I was filled with so much love and excitement for this little family, as I knew they were so close to meeting their daughter.
Want more birth magic? Check out Sara and Ryan’s birth and Ellen and Andrew’s birth.
If you’re interested documenting and photographing your Hawai’i birth, contact me here.