While You Were Deployed - A Military Birth Story

What makes someone decide to document a part of their lives in photographs? Outside of my professional application, I find myself pulling my camera out any time I see something that inspires me, when the light is really beautiful, or maybe when I visualize what I think would make an amazing composition. But for the most part, and one of the reasons I ever picked up my camera in the first place, is because I've noticed someone or something that captivates me. A story, in part or in whole, that moves my soul.

When it comes to births, more and more women are beginning to realize the power of their experiences, documenting them and communicating that power and inspiration by sharing their stories.

In Caite's case, her motivation for hiring a birth photographer will have us all grabbing the tissues. You'll see, just scroll down through her images, read her story from her perspective, and tell me you didn't shed a tear.

Caite contacted me several months in advance of her due date, expressing her wishes: "I’ve decided to document this birth, as it’s my fourth and final baby, and unfortunately my husband is deployed. We thought he may be able to come back for the birth, but it’s looking like he won't be able to." Caite had a track record of fast labors and deliveries, and wanted to make sure she hired an experienced birth photographer, capable of making it to the hospital at a moment's notice. I was fortunate enough to be chosen to document and share her beautiful and moving story. I'm not sure I'd have the fortitude and grace that Caite displayed, going through labor and delivery without her partner by her side, but getting to be witness to her strength moved me beyond words. She is a true testament to the strength of a woman, and a military spouse. Scroll down and see for yourself.

Can you share with our readers a little about your family? Where are you from originally? How did you and your partner meet and end up living in Groton, CT?

My husband and I are both originally from New England. We met in San Diego when we were both stationed there and working in the same clinic. Bill ended up getting orders to Groton, Connecticut, and we were thrilled to be assigned to a duty station back home.

What was your pregnancy with baby like? Did you suffer from any morning sickness? Have any strange cravings?

My pregnancy with Harry was a whirlwind. Finding out I was pregnant was a huge, but welcomed surprise. I suffered from horrible morning sickness and was on more nausea medications than I can count. I was so happy to reach my second trimester and have the morning sickness wear off. While I was pregnant with Harry my sweet tooth was out of control and I was constantly craving desserts and anything sweet I could get my hands on.

Which part of your pregnancy did you enjoy the most? And the least?

I enjoyed my second and third trimesters the most. I loved how I looked pregnant and I felt great. I adored sporting my baby bump and feeling all of his kicks, rolls, and punches. He was very active in the womb. I definitely did not enjoy my first trimester because I was so sick, and also the fear of not knowing if your baby is okay or not. As much as Harry was a surprise, once the idea of him was there, we did not want to lose him!