The FAQ
Do you Travel?
Depending on availability and distance, yes! I will travel up to 2 hours outside of Lincoln city limits for a limited number of clients. Reach out to see if your due date and location is available.
How long have you been doing this?
I've been a pro family photographer since 2015, but I started specializing in birth photography in January of 2019. I attend births as a photographer, videographer, and doula.
How many photos do we get?
Birth sessions generally produce 100-150 edited images for digital download with print release. Family sessions vary. Please reach out for more specifics about non-birth session packages.
How do we get our photos?
Your photos will be delivered via a beautiful online gallery, which will include a slideshow of your images set to music. Depending on which package you choose, you will be able to download images and/or purchase prints or albums directly from your online gallery.
Do you retouch photos?
I lightly edit all photos to be consistent with my portfolio. I generally do not do advanced edits (ie: body slimming, removing objects, etc.)
Whats your turn around time?
You can expect to receive your birth gallery back in 3-4 weeks. Other sessions (family, milestone, etc.) turnaround time is 1-2 weeks.
Do you offer payment plans?
Birth photography is an investment, and I understand that finances are a concern for many families. I offer flexible, interest-free payment options to suit almost any budget. I'm happy to discuss your unique situation and come up with a plan that works for both of us.
How do we book you?
Before we book your birth, we will chat on the phone to make sure we're a good fit and discuss any questions you have. When we decide to move forward, booking is all done online and is super quick and easy!
Can you help us with planning?
Yes! Whether we're doing a birth session or any other type of session, I will be there every step of the way to help you plan for the day - including helping you decide what to wear (yes - even for birth!)
How far out do you book?
Since birth is unpredictable, I only take 2-3 births per month to ensure I'm available when baby decides to make their entrance! Therefore, my calendar typically books up several months in advance. Please reach out to see if your due date is still available.
What if you can't make it to my birth?
I plan my life and activities around being able to drop everything, 24/7, when I am on call for a birth. However, sometimes life happens and birth can't be rescheduled. Due to the unpredictable nature of birth, I have backup photographers ready to take my place if I am unable to attend due to illness or other circumstances outside of my control.
What if I end up with an unplanned C-section?
Birth is nothing if not unpredictable - and with a 30% (or more) c-section rate in the United States, having a plan for an unplanned c-section is important. If I'm allowed to be in the OR, I will continue to document your story. However, if I am not allowed in, I will document as much as I can. I recommend your partner takes photos in the OR on his/her phone and I will edit them later to match the rest of your gallery.
When do we call you in labor?
We will meet in advance to discuss all of the specifics, including "when to call". We will discuss your previous labor history to better answer this question. In general though, I usually plan to arrive during active labor, when a consistent and strong labor pattern has been established.
Novita Family Photostories is a birth photographer, videographer, doula, and family photographer based in Lincoln, Nebraska.