17 Incredible Birth Images from 2017

What a year it has been! We've laughed and cried and said hello and goodbye. This year has been full of growth for me as a business, but more importantly, as a person. I learn something at every birth that I attend. Here are some of the powerful moment I was fortunate enough to witness. 

Stillbirth_Tulsa_Hillcrest

To the families that didn't get to take their babies home. I will never forget you. Thank you for the honor of capturing the images that I hope you cherish until you see your children again. 

McAlester_Oklahoma_Hospital_Birth

This client of mine couldn't have been more elated to pull her rainbow baby onto her chest and know that he was here. 

Hillcrest_cesarean_Tulsa_OK

Getting to be the first person to know that my client was expecting made this moment extra special. Baby put the cherry on top by looking in my direction before she was fully aware she had been born. 

Natural_Birth_St.Francis_Tulsa

What could be more encouraging than your 3 oldest telling you how amazing you are just moments before you meet their sibling? These kids are the sweetest. 

Hillcrest_south_Kim_Kmita_Natural_Induction

This image just shows you the strength an determination of a mother who is ready to meet her baby girl. 

Homebirth_Tulsa_waterbirth_dadcatch

He was born into his father's hands and placed upon his mother's chest. What a beautiful way to enter this world. 

VBAC_stfrancis_Tulsa_Oklahoma

Her second VBAC and their first little girl. Daddy's girl from the start. 

crowning_vaginal_birth_Tulsa

One of my favorite things is getting to be the first person to see those little eyebrows emerge. 

daddy_daughter_birth_stjohn_tulsa

After all has settled and everyone clears the room, family bonds start to grow and strengthen.  

uturus_cesarean_stitches_birth_Tulsa

I don't know who said a cesarean birth was easier, but they are full of shit. That's all I have to say. 

cesarean_moments_birth_stfrancis_Tulsa

Cesarean birth isn't easy for anyone. This woman waits to be called back to see her wife again. It's the longest 15 minutes of a partner's life. 

VBAC_birth_Tulsa_Hospital

His touch was not only comforting physically, but during each contraction, she knew he was there. 

goodgoodfather_birth_christian_Tulsa

For her, worship music was just what she needed to make it through. Her family softly sang along with the music as she labored. 

sibling_littlebro_birth_baby

I don't think there has ever been a sibling more excited than Jemma. 

waterbirth_Tulsa_midwife_bath

Morning light, warm water, and a sweet baby. It doesn't get much better. 

NICU_hillcrest_tulsa_triplets

Ever wonder how many people are needed to take care of triplets? All three are now happy and healthy at home with their very proud mama. 

partners_support_birth_work_stfrancis

With her determination and his support, they could have moved a mountain. What a strong team they were. It was an honor to witness. 

 

BONUS! Me, celebrating my 50th birth this year. 

50_birth_Taryn_Starkey_Tulsa

Get it... 5-O. Here's to 2018, may I be invited to bare witness to more incredible strength, love, and happiness. May your 2018 be everything you are working so hard for! Blessings!