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I remembered just shortly after announcing my own pregnancy, I received a text from Sarah saying she was pregnant too. She had yet to yell it from the rooftops, unlike myself, even though she was a couple weeks ahead of me. I of course, eagerly told her I would love to shoot the birth of her and David’s first child. (I sometimes throw myself at folks like that, watch out). I sensed a bit a hesitancy from her, so I left her knowing it would be an honor.You see these two have something quite magical. I have worked with Sarah numerous times within our industry and have always admired her demeanor. Odd thing to admire perhaps, but there is something so quiet and alluring about Sarah, and all she does. Then there is David. I first encountered David through his words via Kinfolk magazine. He told a story about Oregon, hot springs and some naked folks… I liked him instantly. So it was settled for me, but these two being the private folks they are, hadn’t fully decided who they wanted present at Ivy’s birth.
Months went by and I didn’t press the matter, though we bumped into each other here and there at events. Then at 36 weeks pregnant, me, not Sarah… I received a phone call asking if I was still interested in being there. Obviously. Safest place for a photographer shooting at 37 weeks pregnant? I was in.
And it was beautiful. And magical. And filled with such love. Thank you, you two… Ivy is one of my favs. 
I was interviewed today on a local lifestyle show, Studio 5, discussing birth photography. You can see it HERE.
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Such powerful, storytelling images. Thank you so much for sharing these wonderful images about the beginning of life. I love the photo of him giving her water.
Wow! This is beautiful… So beautiful!
Great documentary photography; beautiful moments captured that will last forever with this family.
I’m so in love with birth stories. Such powerful and beautiful images you captured. Love it.
Great work, Heather. Beautiful storytelling all the way through.
Great job and what an honor!
What a lovely birth story. You have skills woman!
I’ve been following you for a while, thought I might as well leave a comment finally.
Stunning work overall. But this frame…. best photo I’ve seen in a long time, hands down.
http://heathernanphoto.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/utah_birth_photographer_0013.jpg
Heather. Wow. Unbelievably beautiful set of images, and amazing storytelling on your end.
Stunning. Beautiful. Intimate.
Makes me misty-eyed remembering the birth of my own daughter 10-months ago. Wish you were there to document that intense, amazing moment…so for the next one.
Heather, your photography has such delicate sensitivity and beauty to it, and no matter what you photograph, whenever I stop by to see what you’ve been up to, I am moved.
This is incredible documentation!
very nice documentary photography. I love all the little details you included, such as the close up of her hands gripping the bed. I hope one day I get a chance to photograph something like this
On your blog for the first time while holding my toddler who won’t go to sleep. I was telling him that the lady was pushing out her baby, then I got to the first photo of the baby and I completely broke down. Thank you for sharing this story. Beautifully, tenderly done.
Absolutely beautiful, Heather. You have such a gift.
Wow, absolutely beautiful, I’m at the border to cry. Love your work.
Love this series. Great flow and emotion. Very nice.
Ivy Vine Birth Story | Utah Wedding & Birth Photographer | Heather Nan Photography