The Gift of Capturing the Beautiful Chaos

Interview with Maggie G - Chicago Motherhood Photographer

Q1: What inspired you to dive into birth photography, and how has your journey unfolded?

Maggie: The inspiration came from the belief that birth is a powerful, transformative journey worth documenting. My journey into birth photography started with a desire to capture the raw, unfiltered beauty of these moments. From those early days to now, each birth has been a unique story, a chapter in the larger narrative of life. Of course, my own birth experiences also influenced my journey as a birth worker. I had a super long induction for my first labor and then opted for a homebirth for my second and third. These personal experiences taught me the importance of self-advocacy, a skill I bring to my doula and birth photography work, ensuring that every birthing experience is honored and empowered.

Q2: What are some of the most memorable moments you've experienced during births, and how have they impacted you as a birth photographer and doula?

Maggie: Oh, there have been moments that etch themselves into my memory. There was this birth that was moving so swiftly; I thought I might have to assist the mom in catching! Then another time when I witnessed an unplanned breech homebirth, the midwife's impeccable handling illuminated her extensive training and knowledge.

Adrenaline-pumping moments like these can happen anywhere, whether at home or in the hospital, underscoring the importance of having a great and respectful provider.

But it's the births that don't unfold as expected that stay with me the most.

Witnessing a mother's strength in navigating unexpected turns is a testament to the resilience and power within every birthing person.

These moments are a reminder that birth, in all its unpredictability, is a profound journey, and being present to capture these stories is an honor and a continuous source of inspiration.

Q3: As a mother of three, how do you balance the demands of motherhood with the unpredictable schedule of birth work?

Maggie: It still amazes me that I grew and birthed three humans—quite a feat, right? Juggling motherhood and birth work is an art, and flexibility is key.

Through my journey in birth work, I've learned to embrace the unpredictability of both worlds and find joy in the beautiful chaos.

Most days, I navigate the delicate balance between witnessing profound love and attempting to stay sane. Owning my business and collaborating with other moms has not only aided me professionally but has been a guiding light in my own motherhood journey. Through helping, documenting, and being inspired by countless loving examples, I've found a deeper connection to the strength and beauty of motherhood.

Q4: What do you think is the most significant impact of birth photography on families, especially for those hesitant about capturing such intimate moments?

Maggie:

Birth photography is like a time capsule—it captures strength, vulnerability, and love in a way that words can't.

Those photos become a bridge between the internal and external experiences which is so important especially during a once-in-a-lifetime- event like birth during which you actually go into a head space I like to call “ labor land” and forget what is happening around you.

It's funny, people don't usually question hiring a wedding photographer, but when it comes to birth, some folks get a bit shy. Birth can be messy, it's true, but that's a small part of the day you meet your baby. And one of the biggest concerns? Women worry they won't look their best. But here's the thing, it's not just about looking good; it's about capturing the real, unfiltered story of that incredible day. But YES, my goal is always to make Mom look good because we deserve it.

And for the dads or whoever's there with the mom during birth, having a photographer means they don't have to stress about taking pictures. They can just be in the moment, fully present for her. When that baby pops into view for the first time, they can soak it all in. I mean, seriously, everyone's in tears—nobody's thinking, "Let me grab a camera." And if they do, well, guess what? They miss being in the shot! There's this special post-birth moment we catch a lot: the dad staring at his wife, her holding the baby, and he's head over heels in love, thinking, "She just did something amazing." And she's there, not even realizing he's locked in on her.

Q5: Can you document your own birth?

Absolutely! My doula partner, Laura, and I (she's also my birth photographer and doula—talk about a dynamic duo) have a fantastic program for doulas called Easy Photo Lessons. We offer monthly subscriptions where you can learn a ton—whether it's enhancing the photos you already take as a thoughtful gift or, as we highly suggest, incorporating photography into your services and charging for that labor of love. We've got photo lessons for parents too. Head to easyphotolessons.com for all the details.

And guess what? Even if you opt for a family member to capture your birth, perhaps with just their phone, we'll guide you on turning those moments into a super cute video. Our suggestion? Steer away from the dad or non-birth partner for this role so they can be fully immersed in the experience. Think Grandma, Sister or Aunt—they often nail it in capturing those priceless moments.

We believe every family should have access to such treasures and healing photographs and films.

To learn more about Maggie and her birth photography and doula services, visit
Website: magdagcreative.com
Instagram: @chicagomotherhoodstories
Instagram: @photolessonsforparents