Recently I started volunteering for On Angels’ Wings, an organization that provides free photography services for families with children facing potentially fatal medical issues.
My first session was on August 6, my brother’s birthday. I arrived at the hospital when the mom was ready to push. Baby girl had anencephaly. She was alive in the womb, and they were hoping they would be able to meet her before she passed. Sadly, she did not survive her birth.
The emotions upon Baby L’s arrival were mixed. When it was clear she did not have a heartbeat, the parents juggled their deep joy of meeting their child with deep grief that she was born sleeping.
I cannot sufficiently describe to you all of the tender moments I witnessed as Baby L’s parents and extended family met her. The grandparents even brought cupcakes to celebrate L’s birthday.
The grandmothers helped give Baby L a bath and also picked different outfits for her to be photographed in. They embraced every moment they were able to bond with their granddaughter.
The words from this first-time mama that struck me most during this session were in response to my question, “Are there any particular photos you would like me to take?” She replied, “No, I’m sure I’m going to love any of the photos you take of her.” This went straight to my heart. Before even receiving these images, she knew they would be priceless keepsakes for her in years to come. I’m the “professional” and I hadn’t even fully grasped that. What an incredible testament to the importance of birth photography, particularly when parents don’t get to bring their babies home with them. I felt humbled and privileged that I was given the opportunity to provide a gift for these parents they would always treasure.
Kavilali is an African word that means “something valuable and precious in a small package.” In the first few sessions I have done with On Angels’ Wings, the depth of meaning I find in my business name has grown more than I could have imagined. This sweet little kavilali was seen as precious and valuable from the moment she was born.
You can learn more about On Angels’ Wings at their website: https://www.oawphoto.org/
Sarah Katumu is a photographer in St. Louis, Missouri. Kavilali Photography specializes in maternity photography, birth photography, and newborn photography. Sarah loves telling stories through the written word and lifestyle photography.