Why Doula Support?
Doulas make birth better! Research shows that having a doula present at your birth can lead to shorter labors, reduced need for pain medication, and a lower likelihood of an unplanned cesarean birth. The right doula will nurture, support and offer guidance for families during their pregnancy, birth and the early postpartum time to help you have a smoother and happier transition to your new life as a parent.
The Doula Package
I am a DONA-trained birth doula with a background in fine art photography, dedicated to providing both support and guidance throughout pregnancy and childbirth, along with professional photography to capture this transformative experience. Whether it’s a hospital induction or a home birth, I offer evidence-based assistance for expectant parents, ensuring they feel empowered and informed every step of the way. My approach is compassionate and personalized, adapting to each family's unique needs and wishes.
$1,000 + travel fee if outside Washington County, ME
Includes:
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Monthly in-person visits for prenatal support and assistance with birth and postpartum planning.
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24/7 on-call availability from week 36 of your pregnancy until your baby arrives. This means my phone is charged and on 24/7, I take a separate car to family events in case I need to leave, I don't leave the state or book other big events, as well as always ensuring childcare availability for my two young boys to make sure I am available for your birth.
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Labor and delivery support from active labor until birth, and up to 3 hours after.
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1 to 3 postpartum visits for emotional support, breastfeeding guidance, and addressing any postpartum needs you may experience.
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20+ professionally edited digital images delivered within 4 weeks in a private online gallery for downloading, along with printing rights.
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Payment plans are available.
"From the moment my husband and I first met Elana, I knew she was exactly what I was looking for in a birth photographer. Her unassuming professional personality and her approach to what we wanted was such a breath of fresh air. She listened to us and asked many questions to ensure we both understood what we expected and wanted from a birth photographer. The night my husband called her to say I was in labor, she was right on top of it. After driving 2 hours to our birthing center she went right to work capturing all the moments of my labor in the most private way-I almost forgot she was even there. She was so polite, respectful, kind and encouraging even. My family and midwives raved about her afterwards. After 19 hours, our beautiful baby boy was born and all the while Elana capturing the most important moments of it all. I still tear up every time I look at those pictures. By far the best investment we ever made. We treasure these pictures and the memories they contain."
- Rachel R
“Elana's presence was felt immensely at my home birth. She not only respectfully listened to my dream of having modest photos to look back on in years to come, but also captured beautiful moments that hang on the walls of my home for all to see, all while offering such great support during labor. Her love for people shines through in all that she does and I was blessed to have her by my side."
- Olivia K
"I was lucky enough to have Elana attend my most recent birth as our photographer. Prior to her attending our birth, we met to discuss having her at our birth, her style, and any boundaries around types of photos. This was so important, and Elana’s respect for the birth space was clear from our conversation.
During our birth, Elana was responsive and got to my home quickly when birth was moving fast. She quietly came in, and got right to work. During my labor she moved around the house to get incredible photos, but was calm and respectful. I was never distracted by her presence, in fact, having her part of my team added a level of comfort and security.
Her photos are incredible, and I’m so grateful to have such beautiful images from my baby’s birthing day. In addition to the big moments of that day, Elana captured many details and emotion; his wrinkly skin, the shape of his ear, the pots on our stove quickly heating water for the tub, my expression of sweet relief, big brother joy as they met their baby brother. Her artistic eye for images and light make her photography so beautiful, and her comforting and calm presence made her a wonderful addition to our birth team."
- LeAnne D
