Do I have to be a professional photographer to join?
Yes. You will need to submit your business website / blog when applying for membership. If you are portfolio building you are welcome to apply.
I am a professional photographer but I’ve never photographed a birth, can I still join?
Yes!!
Who will get the most out of a membership?
This program has something for everyone. The Guide is geared towards those just starting their birth photography business or those who are looking to streamline the process. Experienced birth photographers will find the forum to be a wonderful resource for networking, support, obtaining marketing ideas and continued learning amongst some of the best birth photographers across the world.
What does my membership include?
Click here for all the details.
Does my membership expire?
You receive The Birth Experience Guide via email when you join. I am committed to our forum. I will be there as long as our members want me there. We have a great group and I have no intentions of not participating in our forum.
Who can join? Are there any member restrictions?
Because I give out very detailed information about the inner workings of my business, I limit membership to those outside of a 60 mile radius of Austin, TX and the surrounding areas. if you are unsure if you are outside of this radius, apply for membership and your application will be reviewed. I also reserve the right to refuse membership to any person, for any reason. Membership on the forum can be revoked, without a refund, for violating the terms and conditions or for violating the user code of conduct.
What happens if I join and then my application is not approved?
Once you join you will be sent an application form outlining membership details and you will submit your website / blog / portfolio information. If for any reason your application is not approved (this is rare), you will receive a full refund within 24 hours.
I see there is a “contract” included, will it be legal in my state?
The contract included in The Guide was created by my attorney in Texas. As always, you should check with your local attorney to verify the legalities in your area. The contract included in your package is a good starting point and it covers the basics. I recommend you have it reviewed before use with your clients.
How long is The Guide?
Front to back it reaches 35 pages. This does not include my detailed workflow process. I chose to post my workflow on the forum as it is always evolving and changing.
Do you really give ALL your information on birth photography in The Guide?
YES. Every last detail. If you have any questions that are not covered, in leiu of email, I prefer you ask your questions on the forum so that everyone can benefit.
Is there anything you don’t cover?
Yes. I have extensive experience in photographing births but because birth practices and choices are so wide spread, there are several things I don’t cover or have experience with. These subjects include birth centers (they are not incredibly popular in my area), free birthing, and breech vaginal deliveries. While The Guide does not touch on these subjects specifically, there is an open thread in the forum for each. You are free to ask for advice and share experiences.
Why should I visit the forum?
The forum is a great place to ask questions relating to birth photography! As we grow in numbers you will be able to view birth slideshows of every shape and kind. Chat with other members about the ins and outs of birth photography, client relations, dealing with hospitals, birth staff as well as marketing ideas, presentation ideas and much more!
Are you active on the forum?
Absolutely! I am committed to spending no less than 5 hours per week answering questions. While you can ask me questions about photography, as we grow in numbers, there will be an entire network of birth photographers to learn from.
What is a Charter Member?
There were three Charter Members to The Birth Experience: Emily Weaver Brown, Jodie Allen & Lynsey Stone. Each Charter Member has experience and brings something valuable to this industry. When I started the Birth Experience I wanted to get feedback and input from professionals with various knowledge and backgrounds in the birth photography industry. Each Charter Member gave detailed feedback on The Guide and the forum before it’s release. While I am committed to spending no less than 5 hours per week answering questions in the forum for one year, Charter Members are not required to do so and participate as they choose. Click here for more information on Charter Members.
Do you offer one on one mentoring?
I do, but at this time the spots are filled. The forum is my way of providing mentoring to members in a large format.
Can I share The Birth Experience Guide?
No. You cannot share, resell or post in a public area of your website or other forum, public or private, any portion of The Birth Experience Guide. Sharing information obtained on the forum is strictly forbidden and will result in the offender being removed and banned by IP address without refund.
How do I join?
First, fill out this application. I will review your application within 48 hours. If you qualify you will get a welcome email and a link to pay your membership fee. Once your fee is paid you will receive your membership benefits within 24 hours (excluding holidays).