“A baby is something you carry inside you for nine months, in your arms for three years, and in your heart until the day you die.” — Mary Mason

As a birth photographer, I often get the privilege of witnessing some of the most unforgettable moments in a family’s life. Recently, I was called in to document a planned C-section birth at Midstream Mediclinic. The parents, having had their original photographer cancel just two days prior, reached out to me, and I jumped in with excitement to be part of this special day. Little did I know that this joyous occasion would be filled with celebrations, humor, and touching moments that made me smile behind the lens.

A Last-Minute Connection

Not meeting this family before the delivery, I walked into a room with an air of celebration. It wasn’t long before I realized that this family was one that appreciated life’s finer things—and each other. Both parents have a shared fondness for good cologne, champaigne and clearly for one another.

This baby boy was their first child together, making this day all the more special. For Dad, it was his second son, while for Mom, it was her first baby boy. She also has a beautiful daughter from her previous relationship. The bond between the little girl and mom’s partner was undeniable; she was completely in love with her stepdad and the new baby brother.

Dad’s Humor & Mom’s Tears

As the procedure unfolded, there was this light-hearted humor and overwhelming sense of joy. The father kept asking the doctors when he could get his partner pregnant again! He was smitten, and his excitement overflowed as he held his new son. But Mom wasn’t going to let him steal all the baby snuggles! Despite her tears when she saw her son for the first time, she had to gently insist on her turn for those special moments of holding him close. It was a sweet and funny dynamic to witness.

A True Knot, A Beautiful Miracle

One of the most significant details during this birth was a true knot in the baby’s umbilical cord. As the baby was lifted out of the womb, I captured the stunning moment, preserving not only the baby’s first breath but also the unique detail of the knot. True knots are rare, and this one felt like a reminder of the intricate miracles that happen in childbirth.

Faith and Family

After the birth, a truly special moment took place when the grandmother on the mother’s side prayed over the baby. It was a prayer that spanned both English and their ethnic language, and as everyone in the room held hands, it was a powerful and heartwarming experience. Birth is so much more than just a physical event—it’s a spiritual and emotional journey, too.

The Little Sister’s Role

As a photographer, I like to take a fly-on-the-wall approach, capturing the story as it unfolds. But sometimes, making a connection is key. The little sister was energetic and curious, and I took some time to show her images on my camera, making her feel comfortable around me. This allowed me to capture candid shots of her interactions with her new baby brother and their growing family.

A Memorable Celebration

The atmosphere in the room was festive and full of joy. The family’s joy over this new arrival was evident in the luxurious champagne they popped open and the carefully arranged flowers and balloons that decorated the room. There was a true sense of celebration, of two families coming together as one, and of new beginnings for all of them.

Capturing and Preserving Memories

For me, the standout moments of this birth were capturing the true knot in the umbilical cord and the emotional expressions of both parents as they held their son for the first time. It was also touching to see the thoughtful way the hospital staff and doctors made sure I had the opportunity to document every special moment the family desired.

The mother’s feedback—“I’m crying 🥺 it’s so beautiful, Sam”—was the ultimate affirmation that I had done my job well. There’s something incredibly rewarding about being able to provide families with memories that bring tears of joy.

From the heartfelt prayer to the lighthearted jokes, this C-section birth at Midstream Mediclinic was a celebration of love, family, and new life. Never underestimate the power of a good cologne—or the beauty of a family growing together. I left that day with a full heart and a collection of stunning images that tell the story of this beautiful family’s unforgettable day.