“No matter the specific circumstances, childbirth is hard. It’s hard for the mother who is being hit with contraction after contraction, fighting to catch her breath; it’s hard for the mom who is barely hanging on as she waits for her epidural; it’s hard for the mother quietly composing herself under the bright lights of the OR, waiting for her C-section to start; and it’s hard for the mama working to keep calm as she brings her preterm baby into the world sooner than she’d planned. The strength that women find and tap into during childbirth ― a time when they’re at their most vulnerable, is incredible, full stop. We woman are so Strong.” said @melaneyoldenhof after giving birth to her first child, Noa.
The way we met each other was quite unique. Davidlee parents – Levinia and Nathan – have connect us and somehow I was so happy my wish of documenting a birth story in Africa would happen. In the end of my journey in Johannesburg I would be (finally) able to document such emotion.
For those ones who dont know it, to photograph women in labor in South Africa is still quite a taboo. I remember when I first arrived at Genesis, the maternity clinic – they asked if I was a mom. They were clearly afraid that if I werent, I would not stand to be there.
Of course, they did not know that birth photography was one of my specialty as a family photographer back in Brazil. And my favorite one. While giving birth, its not possible to be fake or artificial. Its an event full of emotion, intimacy, vulnerability and joy. Even thought, most of the time there is lack of light and space to photograph, it is impossible not to feel emotional and involved.
Noa came to this world on November 15th at 5:59 am – weighting 3,43 kg – and lengthening 53 cm.
Everything happened during the very crazy and busy last week in South Africa. After that, I moved out to Brazil for a while again.
It was such a joy to be there, thanks Universe for such an amazing opportunity!
For this reason, I will be always connected to him and his amazing parents (Melaney and Waren).
Love,
Renata
PS: For those who are visiting my blog for the very first time or for those who are wanting to be updated with the latest news, just give a like on my fanpage on Facebook and also my IG on instagram. I keep posting a lot of Portraits, Photojournalism, Lifestyle and Documentary Pictures.
