Hi, I'm Tanya.


I'm a SABPA registered birth photographer in the Cape Winelands region and capture both hospital and home births.

Birth is powerful, raw, and deeply personal and sacred.


My approach to birth photography is gentle and unobtrusive. I document your story as it naturally unfolds, preserving the in-between moments, the strength, the support, and the first breaths of a brand new life.


There is no staging or posing, no interference, just honest, respectful storytelling of one, if not the most, meaningful days of your life.


Why hire a birth photographer?


Birth is one of the most powerful and life-changing days of your life, yet so much of it can feel like a blur.


With my first 2 births, I didn't have a photographer there to document it. At the time, it didn't feel essential. There was already so many unexpected costs with birthing a baby and not to mention caring for a baby/child, that this extra expense felt unnecessary.

But looking back, it's something I deeply wish I had done. Not for perfect images, but for the memories I can't fully return to. The memories that have faded significantly since that day.


With my last baby, I decided to hire a photographer as I also knew it was my last. And it was more than I ever expected. I was able to stay present, knowing those moments were being captured... the emotions, the support (especially from my husband), the quiet in-between.


That experience is a big part of why I do what I do now.


Hiring a birth photographer allows you to fully focus on your experience, while your unique story is being preserved. Your partner gets to be by your side holding your hand, not a phone. And afterwards you have something real and raw to hold onto, not just a fleeting blurry photo that was taken by medical staff. You'll have a story you can revisit, feel and one day share with your child.

What's the Investment

BIRTH PACKAGES START AT R6,000

 

My packages are applicable to both hospital and home births.

Hospital births would be subject to having access to the specific hospital.

For C-sections, I will arrive an hour prior to the procedure.

For vaginal births, I'll be there once active labour begins.

For both I will stay up to an hour after birth to capture some first bonding moments.


 

Video add on

R3,500

 

I also offer a 3-4 min birth video as an extra add on. Please note that I hybrid shoot, which means I capture the photo and video myself. There isn't an additional person doing the video.


 

What do I get?

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

 

Unobtrusive coverage from an hour prior to birth to first bonding moments after birth.

A few sneak peak images within 48 hours so you can share baby's arrival with friends & family.

100+ edited images delivered within 3-4 weeks in high res and lower res (for online).

 

Fresh48 Session

R2,800

 

A Fresh48 session is a relaxed, documentary-style shoot that takes place within the first 24–48 hours after your baby arrives—at the hospital, birthing centre, or at home.


It’s all about capturing those real, fleeting first moments: tiny details, first cuddles, and the quiet magic of meeting your baby. No posing, no pressure—just honest, natural images that preserve how it all felt.

 

FAQ

WHAT IS A BIRTH PHOTOGRAPHER? WHAT DO THEY DO DURING BIRTH?

My role is to be a calm, quiet presence in the room. I document your birth as it naturally unfolds, without directing or interrupting your space. Most of the time, you won't even notice I'm there which is ultimately the aim.

Is it normal to feel uncomfortable having a birth photographer?

Yes, completely. Many moms feel unsure at first. My approach to birth is always with sensitivity snd respect, and always prioritising your comfort and dignity. Nothing is ever forced, and you are always in control of what is documented. Prior to your birth, we have a call or discussion about what you want documented and what not.

When should I book a birth photographer in South Africa?

Best time to book is during your second trimester to secure availability. Birth photographers take on limited births since birth is unpredictable and they need to be on standby. I will go on call from about 38 weeks and will stay in close contact with you as your due date approaches.

when does a birth photographer arrive and how long do they stay?

I typically arrive as active about starts for a vaginal birth and about an hour before a c-section is scheduled. I stay until after baby is born to capture some first bonding moments.

can a birth photographer capture a c-section birth?

This all depends on your hospital and medical team. Some allow photographers in theatre while others don't. If it's not permitted, I can still document the moments before and after your birth, which are just as special.

what if my birth doesn't go as planned?

Birth is unpredictable. Your story is still worth documenting no matter how it unfolds. Whether it's natural birth, induction or c-section, I approach every situation with flexibility and care.

do both photographers work overnight or on weekends?

Yes. Birth doesn't follow a schedule or keep to office hours. I remain on call for you day and night from 38 weeks. My camera gear is packed and scrubs are ready and waiting for me even if you call me in the middle of the night.

what moments does a birth photographer capture?

I document your story as it unfolds. The atmosphere, the emotion, the strength, the support, and the first moments with your baby. Every birth is unique and the focus is always on real connection.

How many photos will I get from my birth?

You'll receive a curated gallery of edited high resolution images that tell the full story of your birth. Each gallery is unique but you should get no less than 200 images.

is hiring a birth photographer worth it?

This is a deeply personal decision. For many families, it becomes one of the most meaningful investments they make, allowing them to revisit moments that often feel like a blur. I've never met anyone who regretted hiring one, but I've met plenty who regret not having one. So that might answer your question :)

how do I choose the right birth photographer?

It's important to choose someone whose work and presence feel calm, respectful and aligned with your values. Arrange a call where you can get to know the birth photographer a little before booking them.

what if I'm not sure yet?

That's 100% okay.


Hiring a birth photographer is a big decision. It's important that it feels right for you. If you're unsure, I'm always happy to chat and answer any questions you might have. No pressure at all!

 

Let's document your unique birth story.

 

If you're interested in hearing more about birth photography, you're welcome to reach out.

I'm always happy to answer questions or simply talk things through - no pressure at all.

 

Follow us on Instagram

 

 

@tanyaschmidtphoto