The Birthkeeper, LLC - Missouri Birth & Creative Services

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The Birthkeeper, LLC - Missouri Birth & Creative Services

Danielle Saforek | Filmmaker, Photographer & Doula | Missouri Based | Documenting Birth & Motherhood Hi there!

My name is Danielle and I’m a wife, mother of two, and photographer located in the Mid-Missouri area that specializes in Birth Photography/Videography, Fresh 48 sessions and capturing babies and families in a lifestyle, natural environment. I am all about those precious little details from the soft hair on your little one’s head down to their tiny little toes. I began my journey with Birth Photogr

aphy almost 6 years ago and haven’t stopped since. I have photographed over 150 births now and it is not only my passion but I am a strong advocate for all things pregnancy, birth and postpartum related. I love documenting one of the most life changing times in your life and I will tell you this, its something you will cherish forever and will want to look back on over and over again. I’m dedicated to my birth work and I go on-call with my clients 24/7 the weeks surrounding their due date. I will support you with your wants, needs and fully capture what you would like, being very modest to completely detailed. I capture your unique story, and when you are at home cuddling on that sweet little one of yours looking at those images, you will see so much beauty and see a YOU you've never seen before. A beautiful, powerful, transformed mother in the throes of the most intense pain and love you will ever feel.

05/02/2025

The months of December and January gave me the opportunity to document some incredible families. I had the privilege of working with mothers who were facing serious medical conditions, which led to early inductions and cesarean sections. These experiences made me reflect on how birth, while something we can plan and prepare for, is ultimately a journey that unfolds in its own unique way. Despite all the planning, pregnancy and childbirth can take unexpected turns, reminding us that even the most carefully laid plans can change in an instant. It’s a humbling reminder of the unpredictability of life and the resilience of the families navigating these challenges.

These sudden inductions or cesareans can bring a sense of urgency, a feeling that time is moving on its own, not according to the rhythm your body had intended. The natural process is altered, and with it, there may be a quiet grief for many for the birth that was envisioned but never came to pass. Yet, there is also courage, the bravery to surrender, to embrace the unfolding journey despite its new course.

The physicality of it can feel distant, as though you are disconnected from the process of your own body giving life. Yet, the moment the baby arrives, whether through a gentle push or a surgical incision, the overwhelming wave of love and gratitude is the same. It is a birth, no less sacred, no less profound.

-Danielle
www.thebirthkeeperllc.com

31/01/2025

Hospitals, listen up! The presence of doulas and birth photographers in the operating room during a cesarean is not just a preference, it's a vital part of the birth experience, one that is often unjustly dismissed. When a family hires a doula, they’re not simply hiring someone to assist in labor; they’re bringing in a dedicated advocate who deeply understands birth and the needs of the mother. Doulas provide emotional support, comfort, and continuity, helping to ease the overwhelming tension and anxiety that can come with surgery. They are often the calm, reassuring presence that helps individuals navigate an experience that could otherwise feel disorienting and out of control.

When a doula is denied access to the operating room, it’s not just an inconvenience, it’s an emotional blow to a person who might already be feeling vulnerable and frightened. The lack of this continuous, supportive presence can heighten stress and even lead to feelings of isolation in a situation where emotional connection is critical. Birth can be a deeply personal and transformative experience, and the absence of the person someone trusts to help guide them through can cause a significant emotional gap.

And then there’s the role of the birth photographer. Birth photography is more than just capturing a moment, it’s about preserving a story, a visual testament to the strength and beauty of the birth process, no matter how it unfolds. For many parents, particularly those undergoing cesareans, having that memory documented helps them feel seen, heard, and validated in their experience. Cesareans, while medically necessary in certain cases, can leave parents with a sense of lost control over the narrative of their birth. Without the presence of a photographer, the details of that moment, the glances shared, the first breath of their baby, the tender exchange between parents, are lost. It can feel like an important chapter of their life isn’t fully visible, not just for themselves, but for their child as well.

Restricting these professionals during a cesarean does far more than just affect the moment, it creates a ripple effect. It compounds the emotional weight of an already emotionally charged experience, leaving parents feeling frustrated, sad, and disconnected from the birth they had hoped for. These professionals aren’t just hired hands; they are part of the birth team, supporting families in feeling empowered, seen, and respected. Their absence can leave a gaping hole in the overall experience, one that may be felt for years to come. Every family deserves to have their birth journey fully represented, and that includes the people who help bring comfort, clarity, and emotional connection in the operating room.

The images shown here were captured in the operating room by a considerate nurse who stepped into my role as a birth photographer and I took these photos captured on my client's phone, edited them and I was able to continue documentation in their NICU. Despite repeated requests, this hospital continued to deny me access to the operating room, even after weeks of knowing that my client might require a cesarean section during the delivery of her twins.

I’ve attended numerous cesarean births at other local hospitals, where the staff has made an effort to ensure that the patient’s full support team, including photographers and doulas, can be present in the operating room. Unfortunately, this facility has not made that same effort, limiting my ability to document this significant moment for my client as well as assist the family that they hired me for.

This is a growing issue within the field of birth photography and doula work, where certain hospitals fail to recognize the importance of capturing and bring that familiar emotional rock in such moments for families. The support team’s presence, including photographers, not only empowers the mother but also provides a deeply meaningful record for families to look back on in years to come.

-Danielle
www.thebirthkeeperllc.com

22/01/2025

That first cry. A melody that echoes the arrival of a new soul into the world. In the soft, comforting warmth of home, surrounded by love and the quiet hum of familiar voices, this cry becomes the heartbeat of a family’s new beginning. It breaks through the stillness with a profound sense of relief and joy, a gentle reminder that this little one, so small and yet so mighty, is here to stay. The cry, raw and full of promise, vibrates through the room, weaving a tapestry of hope, connection, and unspoken wonder, as parents breathe in the depth of their new reality. It is not just a sound, it is the first note of a beautiful symphony, the beginning of a lifelong journey together.

-Danielle
www.thebirthkeeperllc.com
The Birthkeeper, LLC - Missouri Birth & Creative Services

20/01/2025

As the days pass, the body transforms, each change marking the miracle of life taking root and flourishing. The curve of the belly becomes a gentle reminder of the power that lies in nurturing another soul, the body bending and shifting to create space for new beginnings. With each photograph, the moments are captured, small details that tell a story of resilience, of love, of the quiet power of creation. These images become memories, each frame a testament to the beauty and grace that come with the process of life unfolding. There is something sacred in watching a woman’s body embrace it's role as the vessel for another, and in the act of documenting it, we honor the miracle and the strength inherent in this incredible journey.

-Danielle
The Birthkeeper, LLC - Missouri Birth & Creative Services
www.thebirthkeeperllc.com

15/01/2025

During such an intimate, vulnerable, and transformative experience, having someone who is emotionally and physically present offers a sense of security and grounding. A hands-on partner who understands the rhythm of labor, who offers words of encouragement, helps with physical comfort, and listens to the mother's needs, creates an environment of trust and calm. Their involvement doesn’t just provide practical assistance, it fosters a deeper emotional connection, reinforcing the sense that they are truly in this journey together, every step of the way.

In those intense, raw moments, a partner’s unwavering support is a lifeline. Their presence can turn moments of fear or exhaustion into ones of comfort and strength. Whether it’s holding a hand, offering reassurance, or simply being a steady and calm presence, a partner's role in the birth space is vital. The shared experience of bringing a child into the world can deepen the bond between them, creating a foundation of mutual respect, trust, and love, one that will sustain them through the challenges and joys of parenthood ahead. I see so many relationships blossom during birth, it's beautiful to witness and document just like these images I captured.

Wanted to share these thoughts with you all as I sit here in between births waiting for another little soul to enter this world today. I have so many new birth stories to share with you all soon, but for now I will leave you with these words and images from a past birth as I think about the beauty of connection.

-Danielle

09/01/2025

Hey Mid-Missouri! Are you expecting a little one this year and being seen at MU? This is a wonderful study to participate in! Nona Birth Education & Counseling

08/01/2025

The soft hum of the hospital room and the gentle beeping of machines became the backdrop of Bracy’s pregnancy journey, but it was the quiet moments of reflection and love that filled her heart with the most profound beauty. Being placed on bed rest with twins had come with many challenges, each day spent confined to a hospital bed with the weight of uncertainty pressing down on her. Yet, in the midst of the discomfort and worry, she found a spark of hope and an opportunity to capture the beauty of this unique chapter in her life.

The idea of a maternity session with her twin girls was something she was excited for and I was thinking of all the ways we can document this pregnancy of hers, but never in a million years did she expect it to happen under these circumstances. Twins, bed rest, and a hospital room—these weren’t the conditions she’d envisioned for the perfect maternity photoshoot. But as she spent long days resting, feeling her babies grow stronger inside her, she realized that the story of her pregnancy wasn’t just about the challenges. It was about resilience, strength, and the deep love she already felt for her children.

As her photographer, I came up one afternoon with my camera and some items for her to wear. Setting up near the window where the soft light filtered in, I knew I wanted to capture her in that light. The photos weren’t about the perfection of her body or the traditional idea of maternity beauty, they were about her journey, about the life growing inside her, about the anticipation of meeting her babies. Each image told a story of strength and hope, of vulnerability and anticipation. The soft glow of the hospital lights combined with the natural light from the window created an ethereal quality, casting shadows that whispered the beauty of this moment.

As Bracy gazed down at her growing belly, a soft smile playing on her lips. In that moment, she was no longer just a woman on bed rest. She was a mother, already so deeply connected to her babies. Mabel and Milly had not yet arrived, but she had already begun to imagine their faces, their personalities, the love they would bring into the world.

For Bracy, this maternity session became a powerful symbol of her journey, one that wasn't defined by the limitations of her circumstances but by the love and strength that had carried her this far. The photographs were not just for her, but for her children as well, a way to show them, one day, that even when life had taken unexpected turns, their mother had never stopped fighting for them. These pictures would be reminders of how much they were wanted and loved before they even took their first breaths.

Part 2 of her story coming soon!

- Danielle

27/12/2024

In a world that often emphasizes masculine qualities like doing, achieving, and competing, it’s essential for women to embrace their authentic feminine energy because it fosters a sense of wholeness, emotional well-being, and deep personal empowerment. Authentic feminine energy allows women to live in alignment with their true selves, offering a balanced approach to life that honors both their inner strength and their need for rest, creativity, and connection. When women embrace this energy, they not only thrive but also create spaces for others to do the same.

So when it comes to birth how does embracing your feminine self help during your pregnancy & birth?
The feminine energy is inherently connected to intuition and bodily wisdom. When a woman embraces her authentic feminine self, she is more likely to trust the signals and cues her body gives during labor. Rather than feeling detached or controlled by fear, she can lean into her body’s natural rhythms and instincts. Authentic femininity allows a woman to feel empowered to listen to what feels right for her during birth, whether it’s the positions she chooses, the pace of labor, or the way she wants to engage with the process.
Feminine energy is deeply emotional, allowing a woman to process the powerful emotions that may arise during birth. By being in tune with her emotions and allowing herself to feel whatever comes up whether fear, excitement, or joy, she can flow through the experience with greater acceptance and less resistance. This emotional openness helps her surrender to the intensity of labor, rather than fighting it.

Surrendering control and allowing the body to do its work is probably the most important things you can do mentally and physically during your birth. When a woman is in her feminine energy, she embraces the natural flow of the process, surrendering to the contractions, to the rhythm of the labor, and to the experience of giving birth. Feminine energy allows for a deep trust in the process of creation, trusting that her body knows what to do and that her baby is ready. This ability to let go and trust can reduce anxiety and fear during labor, which can ultimately make for a more peaceful birth experience.

By embracing this energy, a woman can practice self-compassion during the birth process. Instead of pushing through pain or rushing the experience, she can allow herself the space to be tender and gentle with her body. This nurturing mindset can help create an environment where the woman feels safe, supported, and cared for, whether that’s through the presence of a loving birth team or by simply honoring her own needs during the birth.

The feminine essence is closely connected to the act of creation, and birth is one of the most profound creative acts a woman can experience. Embracing this aspect of feminine energy allows a woman to see her body’s ability to bring new life into the world as an empowering and sacred process. Instead of feeling fear or doubt, she can see herself as a powerful, vital force of nature, capable of navigating the intensity and beauty of childbirth with strength and grace.

Some reflection happening on this gloomy Friday afternoon. This photo is of my beautiful friend Bradleigh that I captured of her while growing her second son within. When I think of capturing the feminine through imagery I always think back to the sessions we have done together.

-Danielle

18/12/2024

As I sit here checking in on the four mothers I am on-call for this month, I find myself reflecting on what it feels like to wait in those final days, anticipating the arrival of your baby. There’s a unique kind of stillness in this waiting, a quiet suspension where time seems to stretch and every moment is filled with the promise of something life changing. It’s a blend of excitement, patience, and wonder, each day holding the possibility that today might be the day. And yet, there is beauty in surrendering to the rhythm of it all, trusting that your baby will arrive when the time is right. In those last moments, everything feels like it’s aligned perfectly for the miracle that is about to unfold.

Like watching the sky shift from dusk to dawn, patient, gentle, and full of promise. There’s a quiet magic in surrendering to the rhythm of time, trusting that this little one will arrive when the moment is perfectly right. Each passing day holds a soft anticipation, a whisper that says, “soon.” The heart swells with love that hasn’t yet been touched by the baby's presence, yet is already boundlessly deep. It is a dance of patience, where the world hums quietly, waiting for this tiny soul to enter, on its own perfect schedule. In that waiting, there is a profound beauty: knowing that this child will come in their own time, unfolding like a flower blooming in its season, in a way that only they can.

-Danielle

09/12/2024

Such a quick delivery for this VBAC mama last night! She was born just four hours after her contractions started to pick up. She roared her baby out with all her might, and after just 10 minutes of pushing, she finally met her sweet girl face to face.

I was her doula, but I just so happened to have my professional camera with me, as I’m on-call for three other mothers. I couldn’t resist capturing these precious moments for her — memories she’ll cherish forever.

You did it mama! 💪🏽

05/12/2024

She has an expression of awe and deep connection, her tired yet elated face glowing with both exhaustion and overwhelming love. Her wet hair is loosely tied back, and droplets of water glisten on her skin. Her eyes are filled with a mixture of wonder, relief, and pure joy as she looks down at the tiny newborn baby in her arms. The baby, with it's small, delicate features, is floating gently in the water, held lovingly by the mother's hands. The warmth of the water and the safety of the moment seem to cradle both mother and child.

Birth undisturbed.

-Danielle
www.thebirthkeeperllc.com
Mid-Mo Birth Photographer & Birthkeeper

03/12/2024

There you are, already adjusting to motherhood, a brand new human that is now yours, all those first snuggles, and then, without warning, your sweet, tiny newborn decides to break the silence with a massive p**p.

And in a moment of sheer hilarity and, let’s be honest, slightly terrifying surprise, it happens. The p**p isn’t just contained in the diaper since you're doing skin to skin time, it lands in places it definitely wasn’t intended to be, all over mom. Suddenly, your baby, with a look of complete innocence, has delivered the ultimate test: a warm, squishy, unforgettable gift directly onto your hands and lap. You thought you were prepared for everything, except the possibility of being the first "victim" of this particular milestone. Haha!

But in the end, there’s something oddly charming about the whole thing. It’s a messy, ridiculous, and entirely normal part of life with a newborn. You laugh through the exhaustion, knowing that this is just the beginning of many more surprises to come. In those moments, you can’t help but marvel at how something so small can create such a BIG impact, and how even the messiest moments of motherhood somehow become precious memories.

- Danielle
The Birthkeeper, LLC - Missouri Birth & Creative Services
www.thebirthkeeperllc.com

29/11/2024

🎉 Black Friday Deal Alert! 🎉

My Black Friday special is now live! For a limited time, when you purchase a Motherhood Story session, you'll also receive a short film that beautifully highlights your journey as a mother — a $500 value, included at no extra cost!

✨ What's included in the Motherhood Story session:

1-Hour Photo Session
15 High-Resolution Digital Images with Print Release
Private Online Gallery for easy viewing and downloading
In-Home or Studio Session (your choice!)
Exclusive Short Film centered around you and your children, capturing the genuine, authentic connection you share (a $500 value!)

💖 Special Offer: This amazing package is available for just $375 (a $500 savings!). Only 5 spots are available for this special deal, so act fast!

How to book:
Simply comment "BOOKED" below, or fill out the form at www.thebirthkeeperllc.com/contact.

I can't wait to capture these precious memories of you and your littles!

Note: Sessions must be paid in full to receive this deal.

-Danielle

27/11/2024

Hey Missouri families, I have a Black Friday announcement for you!

Are you expecting, or do you know someone who is, that would love to have these special moments captured with their babies on film? I haven’t held a Black Friday sale in quite some time, so I felt like this would be the perfect opportunity to offer this to a freshly postpartum mother. Materialistic things can be nice at times, but what about a short film to look back on for years to come? A film that doesn’t lose its value, but instead, gains meaning as it captures intimate, emotional, and fleeting moments that change in the blink of an eye.

There is something uniquely beautiful about documenting these moments on film—it captures the raw, unfiltered essence of motherhood. A well-crafted film freezes time, allowing a mother to revisit those precious early days with her little one. Unlike photos, a film tells a story: it captures movement, laughter, tears, and the gentle exchange of love between mother and baby. It becomes a treasure that not only reflects the journey of motherhood but also preserves the connection and beauty of a fleeting chapter in life.

This Friday, I will be offering a complimentary film, just like the one below, to all my postpartum/motherhood sessions. This is a $500 value, free to you! I’m only offering FIVE of these deals, and you must purchase a Motherhood Session where I will come to your home, or you can use my studio (located in Jefferson City). I will capture a full gallery of images, beautifully edited for you to view.

What’s included with my Motherhood Stories:

* 1 Hour Session
* 15 Digital Images with Print Release
* Private Online Gallery
* In-Home or Studio Session
These sessions are $375 to purchase, and the film, which is normally an additional $500, is now complementary for only five lucky mamas!

The sale will go LIVE on Friday at 8:00am.
You can send me an email at [email protected] or fill out my contact form over at www.thebirthkeeperllc.com/contact.

26/11/2024

I’ve been really thinking about all the inconsistencies surrounding delayed cord cutting between hospital providers, midwives, and the data that's available. As a birth worker, it can sometimes be difficult to navigate through this, having to help advocate and literally say, "Leave the cord alone," when I have a doctor who’s snip-happy just seconds after birth (mind-blowing, by the way—and I prefer NOT to work with these providers). Then, there are other doctors who respect the parents' wishes, and I've even had delays of up to an hour in the hospital. Again, the inconsistency is staggering. What happens to a family who walks into a hospital expecting a certain standard of care, only to be faced with an on-call doctor who has no education on the benefits of leaving that cord alone?

Alright, so why does it matter if you wait to cut the cord? Well, it turns out there are some pretty big health benefits to keeping that cord intact for a little longer. Providers and parents, listen up:

More Blood, More Power: When you wait to cut the cord, the baby gets more blood from the placenta—up to a third of their total blood volume! That means more red blood cells, more oxygen, and more nutrients. Essentially, it’s like giving your baby a head start in life. More blood equals more strength!

Boost Those Iron Levels: That extra blood also means extra iron, which is crucial for brain development and overall growth. Babies are born with low iron stores, so those few extra minutes really help prevent iron deficiency, a common cause of anemia in newborns.

Immune System Kickstart: Placental blood is rich in stem cells and immune cells, which are essential for helping your baby fight off infections in the early days. These cells give the baby a solid boost to their immune system.

Smoother Transition: The baby’s first few breaths are a big deal, and delaying cord cutting can help ease the transition from placenta life to independent breathing. The placenta is still pumping oxygen to the baby, giving their lungs more time to kick into gear. Fewer breathing struggles? Yes, please!

At the end of the day, when to cut the cord is a personal decision. Some hospitals are adopting delayed cord clamping as the new standard, and homebirth midwives? They’ll tell you to give that cord some time to work its magic—sometimes up to an hour, sometimes even days.

Taking the time to wait and think about the timing of cord clamping could have lasting benefits for your baby. From boosting their blood supply to strengthening their immune system, that extra moment of connection could make a big difference.

Just make sure it’s an informed choice that’s right for you and your baby.

-Danielle
The Birthkeeper, LLC - Missouri Birth & Creative Services
www.thebirthkeeperllc.com

21/11/2024

I love the connection I captured here of Payton & her incredibly supportive husband. The magic of having a supportive partner during birth is truly something special. Imagine the journey of bringing new life into the world with someone by your side who offers love, strength, and comfort through every moment. It’s like having a personal cheerleader, a steady hand to hold, and a safe place to lean on when the road gets bumpy.

Through the rollercoaster of emotions, joy, excitement, fear, your partner’s words can lift you higher, while their touch can ease the tension in your body. Whether it’s a soothing massage or just a comforting squeeze of the hand or hips, their presence brings a calmness that makes it all feel more manageable. Together, you face the challenge of labor as a team, their encouragement lighting the way when it gets tough.

And here’s the beauty, when a doula enters the picture, they don’t take away from the partner’s role, they enhance it. A doula is there to offer extra support, guiding both you and your partner with expert advice, soothing words, and comfort techniques. Their presence means your partner can focus even more on being your emotional rock, while the doula helps with practical tools, like breathing techniques or comfort positions. Together, the doula and partner create a perfect harmony of care, each offering something unique, but never stepping on each other’s toes.

Your partner remains your main source of love and connection, but with the doula, you get a broader team of support, one that ensures everyone’s needs are met and that you both feel empowered and informed.

And when the baby finally arrives? The bond that has been built in those precious moments of shared vulnerability only grows stronger. It’s a love story that begins with the two of you and grows to include the newest member of your family, making the journey to parenthood all the more beautiful.

In the end, having a supportive partner during birth is like having a little bit of magic in your corner, turning a challenging experience into a shared adventure full of love, strength, and connection. With a doula alongside, the experience becomes even more nurturing, ensuring that both the mother and their partner feel cherished and empowered.

-Danielle

www.thebirthkeeperllc.com

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Videos

"Unforgettable Moment: Baby’s First Cry at Home Will Melt Your Heart 💖👶"

That first cry. A melody that echoes the arrival of a new soul into the world. In the soft, comforting warmth of home, surrounded by love and the quiet hum of familiar voices, this cry becomes the heartbeat of a family’s new beginning. It breaks through the stillness with a profound sense of relief and joy, a gentle reminder that this little one, so small and yet so mighty, is here to stay. The cry, raw and full of promise, vibrates through the room, weaving a tapestry of hope, connection, and unspoken wonder, as parents breathe in the depth of their new reality. It is not just a sound, it is the first note of a beautiful symphony, the beginning of a lifelong journey together. -Danielle www.thebirthkeeperllc.com The Birthkeeper, LLC - Missouri Birth & Creative Services #HomeBirth #HomeBirthJourney #BirthAtHome #NaturalBirth #PregnancyJourney #PregnancyGlow #MidwifeAssisted #MidwifeCare #EmpoweredBirth #GentleBirth #BirthWithoutFear #HomeBirthSupport #PregnancyAndBeyond #InformedBirth #birthstory

Black Friday Videography Deal - Motherhood Films

Hey Missouri families, I have a Black Friday announcement for you! Are you expecting, or do you know someone who is, that would love to have these special moments captured with their babies on film? I haven’t held a Black Friday sale in quite some time, so I felt like this would be the perfect opportunity to offer this to a freshly postpartum mother. Materialistic things can be nice at times, but what about a short film to look back on for years to come? A film that doesn’t lose its value, but instead, gains meaning as it captures intimate, emotional, and fleeting moments that change in the blink of an eye. There is something uniquely beautiful about documenting these moments on film—it captures the raw, unfiltered essence of motherhood. A well-crafted film freezes time, allowing a mother to revisit those precious early days with her little one. Unlike photos, a film tells a story: it captures movement, laughter, tears, and the gentle exchange of love between mother and baby. It becomes a treasure that not only reflects the journey of motherhood but also preserves the connection and beauty of a fleeting chapter in life. This Friday, I will be offering a complimentary film, just like the one below, to all my postpartum/motherhood sessions. This is a $500 value, free to you! I’m only offering FIVE of these deals, and you must purchase a Motherhood Session where I will come to your home, or you can use my studio (located in Jefferson City). I will capture a full gallery of images, beautifully edited for you to view. What’s included with my Motherhood Stories: * 1 Hour Session * 15 Digital Images with Print Release * Private Online Gallery * In-Home or Studio Session These sessions are $375 to purchase, and the film, which is normally an additional $500, is now complementary for only five lucky mamas! The sale will go LIVE on Friday at 8:00am. You can send me an email at [email protected] or fill out my contact form over at www.thebirthkeepe

The Primal Sounds of Labor

There's a quote I saw this morning that read, "For every birth video you watch where a woman calmly breathes her baby into the world, make sure you watch one where she begs, pleads, roars, swears, doubts and works incredibly hard to meet her baby. So that if this is your expierence, you are not caught off guard by the intensity of birth." - Matrescence Podcast | Birth of a Mother I wanted to collect some video clips I documented from Bradleigh's beauitful candlelit labor showing that intensity. The primal sounds of labor are visceral, instinctual expressions that echo the raw power and vulnerability of childbirth. These sounds, ranging from deep groans and low moans to more intense cries, are not merely reactions to pain but are integral to the body's natural rhythms in the process of bringing new life into the world. They reflect the emotional and physical intensity of the experience, capturing the tension, strength, and surrender involved in labor. These sounds resonate through the body, helping to release tension and often guiding the woman through the waves of contractions. They are ancient and universal, connecting the woman to a long lineage of those who have labored before them, a deeply human articulation of transformation. -Danielle #birth #birthstory #waterbirth #homebirth #birthphotographer #birthvideo #laboranddelivery #naturalbirth #midwife #doula #birthispowerful #columbiamobirthphotographer #jeffersoncitybirthphotographer #missouribirthphotographer #columbiamidoula #birthkeeper #birthmatters #motherhood #parenthood #empoweredwomen #empoweredbirth #birthplan #connection #stlphotographer #BirthStory

The Birth of Briar - In Honor of Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month

October is Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month. Every year, I like to bring awareness to this time to support families who continue to face loss, heartache, emptiness, and grief after losing their child. There are no words to describe life after loss; its a feeling, a perpetual emptyness that lingers with thoughts of what could have been. What if he or she were here? What would life look like? Would they have blond or dark hair? What would their personality be? Would they take after mom, dad, or their silly auntie? We will never know. From my own heart, which has suffered loss, I believe these babies are in the souls of my children here on earth with me, forever our guardian angels. Part of my work is helping families during their grieving process by documenting moments on film of their babies coming into this world. Sometimes, they are already sleeping when they arrive; others are in our arms for a few moments or hours before leaving this temporary world. In this film, I documented these mothers bringing their baby, Briar, earthside, and today is the first time I have shared her birth video. They have allowed me to share this emotional video with you all, and I will forever hold them close to my heart. Let's bring awareness to: * Miscarrige * Stillbirth * Molar Pregnancy * Embryo Loss * Sids (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) * Infant Loss * Ectopic Pregnancy * Vanishing Twins * TFMR (Termination for Medical Reasons) To all the babies born sleeping, those we carried and visualized who they would be but didn't get to meet, those we held for a short time to have an empty crib at home to look at, and all those we will forever think about and continue to have a piece of our hearts with them. -Danielle The Birthkeeper, LLC - Missouri Birth & Creative Services www.thebirthkeeperllc.com #pregnancyloss #infantloss #october15th #earlymiscarriage #waveoflight #babyloss #stillbirth #pregnancy #angelfamily #sadness #birth #grief #birthphotographer #birthvideo #st

The Home & Waterbirth of Malakai - A Birth Story Anchored in Faith

In the stillness of the night Kai entered the world from the water into his mothers arms. Birthing naturally at home, Audra fully surrendered, not once doubted herself, listened to her body's wants and needs intuitivly and believed in her body's natural ability to give birth. Here are some words from the mother in this video I would love to share with you all: "God’s design for birth is beautiful. He orchestrated the womans body to know exactly what to do. What a beautiful gift He gave us to be apart of creation with Him. To bring new life into the world. Each birth I’ve been gifted has taught me some powerful lessons and grew me exponentially. This birth taught me that the intensity in birth cannot be stronger than me because they come from within me. I learned that God knows the day and the hour, He knows who should be there, He KNOWS. I can rest in his plan and provision. I learned that my husbands hands offer comfort and relief. That his voice strengthens me. That his presence and love gave me calm in the midst of intensity. I was reminded that MINDSET is one of the most important parts of birth." “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” Isaiah 26:3 "for far too many women pregnancy and birth is something that happens to them rather than something they set out consciously and joyfully to do themselves." -Sheila Kitzinger "birth is not only about making babies. birth is about making mothers...strong, competent, capable mothers who trust themselves and know their inner strength." -Barbara Katz Rothman Audra, thank you for allowing me back into your birth space. What an honor it was to document another child of yours coming into the world in the comfort of your home. -Danielle www.thebirthkeeperllc.com #birth #birthphotography #birthstory #birthstories #birthvideo #columbiamophotographer #birthphotographer #doula #motherhood #laboranddelivery #naturalbirth #waterbirth #midwife #midwifelife #mi

Some placenta love this morning while I finish up on a couple galleries and a post for the start of World Breastfeeding Week tomorrow! Love how placentas are all so unique with how they develop. This midwife is describing what she is seeing here. #birth #birthphotography #placenta #midwife #birthstory #birthisnatural #homebirth #doula #columbiamophotographer #jeffersoncityphotographer #kansascityhomebirth #stlphotographer #birthbelongstowomen #doulalife #doulalove #midwifery #laboranddelivery #homebirthmama

THE HOME BIRTH OF BAYNE | RAW EMOTIONAL BIRTH FOOTAGE | BABY#3

Making birth films are my absolute favorite. This family hired me as their photographer and videographer to document the arrival of their son in the comfort of their beauitful & loving home. I couldn't adore this family more and I feel like I captured their love for one another in this film. This story shows birth in all that it is, raw, emotional and . Even in moments where babe needed a little assistance, midwife Dawn made sure he was skin to skin with mom the entire time and talking to her baby. Some words from mom she wanted to share, "The comfort of home birth far out-ways any minor short term discomfort that a natural birth can have. From the simplicity of being in your own bed to the 6 weeks of in home postpartum care, midwifery is truly a gift I wish more people could expierence." Congratulations to the Busby family! - Danielle The Birthkeeper, LLC - Missouri Birth & Creative Services www.thebirthkeeperllc.com Mid-Missouri Birth Photographer & Doula Midwife: Dawn Finney, Birthroot Midwifery Assistant Midwife: Katy Miller, Birth Strong Midwifery #birth #birthphotos #birthfilm #birthvideo #birthstory #birthphotography #birthvideography #midwife #midwifery #homebirth #homebirthing #laboranddelivery #newbornboy #motherhood #jeffersoncitybirthphotographer #columbiamissouribirthphotographer #birthdoula #doula #birthadvocate #birthkeeper #birthisbeautiful #empoweredbirth #naturalbirth #breastfeeding #naturalmama #fatherhood #pregnancy #birthyourway #birthmatters

Unmedicated Natural Birth Video - Missouri Birth Photographer & Doula

**Birth Video** In between supporting Tristan as she labored with her son, I was able to capture a collection of videos to create this film for her. This mama listened to her intuition throughout her pregnancy, refused an induction date and went into labor on her own several days later, giving birth to a healthy baby boy. Danielle The Birthkeeper, LLC - Missouri Birth & Creative Services www.thebirthkeeperllc.com . . . . #birth #birthphotographer #birthstory #birthstories #hospitalbirth #birthvideo #naturalbirth #naturalhospitalbirth #laboranddelivery #motherhood #pregnancy #photoofday #jeffersoncitymissouri #columbiamissouri #stlouismissouri #stlphotographer #videographer #kansascityphotographer #springfieldmophotographer #doula #doulasupport #midwife #doulalife #newbornbaby #missouridoula #birthphotography #advocate

Breastfeeding Support Central Missouri

Becky with bb lactation is an amazing Lactation Consultant located here in Jefferson City, Missouri! Her resources, education & support are phenominal, did I mention she does home visits!? If you don't want to get out with your newborn baby and travel to her office she is more than happy to come to you! I wanted to make this short film for her and her business. I'm so greatful for the support she provides for our community and make sure to like and share her page with others! -Danielle The Birthkeeper, LLC - Missouri Birth & Creative Services www.thebirthkeeperllc.com #breastfeeding #missouribusiness #smallbusiness #lactation #lactationsupport #ibclc #doula #birth #motherhood #postpartum #postpartumbody #lactation

The Immediate Postpartum Period of a Homebirth

The quiet and undisturbed immediate postpartum of a homebirth. Little distraction, low lights, calm music and a warm atmosphere where baby is able to transition into the world easier. I find this time very valuable, not only for baby but for the mother as well. This time allows them both to establish a deep connetion, uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact and a time to practice those first moments of their breastfeeding journey together. -Danielle The Birthkeeper, LLC - Missouri Birth & Creative Services www.thebirthkeeperllc.com #birth #homebirth #postpartum #placenta #midwife #doula #birthphotographer #birthphotos #birthvideo #birthvideographer #videographer #doulalife #breastfeeding #motherhood #laboranddelivery #birthmatters #postpartummama #waterbirth #birthyourway #empoweredbirth #photooftheday #newbornbabyboy #columbiamophotographer #jeffersoncitymophotographer #columbiamissouri #jeffersoncitymissouri

The Birth of Jeremiah | Unmedicated Hospital Birth

10 years ago I started this journey documenting birth and assisting families along the way. I was pregnant with my daughter (who's birthday is today) when I filmed my first ever video for a dear friend of mine who was a L&D nurse at the time. I love reflecting back on all these births I have captured and being able to help support them in the process. This video I'm sharing today is modest and from a recent birth where I was hired as their doula and photographer. I was able to take some video footage & images in between when she needed me close. Having two prior births before where she had the epidural, Morgan wanted a low intervention, medication free birth this time. She listened to her body, she was strong and leaned on her faith as she went through the waves of her labor and very quickly her son came into this world ready to meet his mama! I'm so excited to share this video with you all today! Now I am off to go spoil the birthday girl and celebrate this day that she came into the world and made me a mama to two girls. -Danielle www.thebirthkeeperllc.com The Birthkeeper, LLC - Missouri Birth & Creative Services #birth #birthstory #hospitalbirth #laboranddelivery #naturalbirth #breastfeeding #motherhood #moms #pregnancy #pregnantmama #columbiamophotographer #jeffersoncityphotographer #stlouisphotographer #kansascityphotographer #birthvideo #midwife #birthvideos #videography #videographer #birthisbeautiful #birthyourway #doula #doulalife #birthdoula #empoweredwomen

When A Midwife Gives Birth | An Empowering & Supported Hospital Birth

Posting this beautiful birth film again after some minor adjustments. What an honor it was to document this amazing local midwife laboring & birthing her own child. Her own hands guiding baby down as he transitioned earth side, her gently tugging the cord while she beared down and birthed her own placenta on all fours, baby's measurements taken on mom and having him in arms reach at all times. I also loved watching her little ones light up with joy as they observed their mother bringing their baby brother into the world. I am thrilled to have her experience this hands-off, empowered birth because not only did it make her feel seen, heard, loved and supported during this pregnancy & birth but now she can go on to advocate and give the same support to her paitents. -Danielle www.thebirthkeeperllc.com #birth #pregnancy #baby #pregnant #doula #newborn #postpartum #motherhood #midwife #love #homebirth #childbirth #birthphotography #birthwithoutfear #breastfeeding #naturalbirth #birthdoula #family #maternity #birthday #hypnobirthing #momlife #empoweredbirth #childbirtheducation #birthphotographer #babyboy #labor #babies #mom #midwifery #viral #photooftheday #birthvideo #birthvideos #columbiamissouri #jeffersoncitymissouri #stlouismissouri #kansascitymissouri

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Why Choose Birth Photography?

Hi there! My name is Danielle and i’m a photographer located in the Mid-Missouri area that specializes in Birth Photography/Videography, Fresh 48 sessions and capturing babies and families in a lifestyle, natural environment. I am all about those precious little details from the soft hair on your little one’s head down to their tiny little toes.

I began my journey with Birth Photography almost 6 years ago and haven’t stopped since. I have photographed over 50 births now and it is not only my passion but I am a strong advocate for all things pregnancy/birth related. I plan to become a certified Doula in the near future to assist couples with the process of birth, emotional support and what to expect pre and post labor. I love documenting one of the most life changing times in your life and I will tell you this, its something you will cherish forever and will want to look back on over and over again.

I’m dedicated to my birth work and I go on-call with my clients 24/7 the weeks surrounding their due date. I will support you with your wants, needs and fully capture what you would like, being very modest to completely detailed, I go by your wants and needs.

I capture your story, and when it’s all over, you might just start to look at those photos and videos with one eye closed - scared you're going to see bad angles or scary body parts but you’ll look, and see a YOU you've never seen before. A beautiful, powerful, transformed woman in the throes of the most intense pain and love you've ever felt.