040: Becoming A Birth Photographer

**Trigger Warning** This is an episode for doulas and covers parts of our job that involves loss and birth trauma. If you are a pregnant parent and are not in the headspace for that, please take care of yourself and skip this episode. We will see you next week! This episode is a treasure trove of inspiration and a heartfelt reminder of the beauty and significance of this work. Today we have Jelina Sonnenberg back to talk about her journey into birth photography. Jelena takes us through her career, offering nuggets of wisdom and practical tips for those looking to thrive in the birth photography field. Jelena never stops learning and it has helped her thrive in a career that most leave behind or never attempt. She gives you the low down on the magic of diligent research, the power of continuous education, and the transformative experiences that come with hands-on practice. We also talk about the crossover part about being a doula and a birth photographer. She dives into prenatal preparation, advocating for a step-by-step approach—master one skill before layering on the next, ensuring a strong foundation for success. She has been able to move states and keep her business going. She has now moved into Boudoir photography and is loving it. We also cover the financial savvy needed for birth photography, the emotional rollercoaster that comes with the territory, and the pressing need to address disparities in maternity care. Jelena's infectious belief in the power of community, the necessity of self-care is the only way for sustainability and in the doula and birth photography world. You can find Jelina in Illinois at Jelinasonnenberg.com  Let's connect: Have questions or comments for this episode? [email protected]   Work with Care or Ashley: 858-251-4204   Join us on Socials: Instagram: @BirthEducationCenter TikTok: @BirthEducationCenter YouTube: @BirthEducationCenter FB: @BirthEducationCenter LinkedIn: @CareMesser   Online Courses: OMG I'm Pregnant: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/OMG-Im-Pregnant-Course/ Induction 101: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/Induction-101-Course/ Mental Health: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/pregnancy-and-postpartum-mental-health/ Newborn Procedures: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/Newborn-Procedures-Course/ Epidurals Explained: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/epidurals-explained/ Meditations/Journal: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/shop/   For Doulas Only: https://www.birtheducationcenter.com/shop/bundles/ebook-bundle/