Portland Birth Photographer
Welcome, I'm
Shanika, CD, CLC, CIMI®
My passion for birth comes from my own entry into motherhood. I birthed my first baby in 2015. I had heard lots of stories about birth and thought I knew the future of my birth story. I quickly realized birth is unpredictable. Through my experience, I learned the importance of trusting your body, embracing your own unique story rather than others’ experiences, giving yourself grace, and understanding the power of advocacy. Having someone by my side to help advocate, listen, and give physical support alongside my husband truly made a difference in my story.
I also found the importance of having photos to look back on from my birth. Being able to piece everything together really helps with healing postpartum. My kids are getting older, and so naturally the choice to support families through doula work felt like the next best thing in my journey. I wanted families to experience the comfort of having someone in their corner, someone who truly cares and understands. Now, I am honored to walk alongside families during this sacred time, offering both physical and emotional support as well as capturing the raw beauty of birth through my lens. Your birth is UNIQUE and your OWN.
Our bodies were made for this moment!
 
I believe birth is a sacred, transformative journey a moment where you deserve to feel safe, cared for, informed, and empowered to trust your body with confidence. As your doula, I strive to empower families to make informed, confident choices about their birth and parenting experiences while fostering a calm, nurturing environment. Together, we’ll explore what works best for you, ensuring you remain the decision-maker in your birth experience. I believe in a holistic approach to health and life, so I find I tend to connect well to those who have a desire to birth unmedicated, birth at home or birth center, but love supporting all births.
 
 
Birth is a life event worth celebrating!
 
 
 
My love for photography has been with me since my childhood days. You could always find me looking at the family photo albums! Photography has been a lifelong passion of mine. I understand the deep importance of capturing not just the big milestones, but also the quiet, in-between moments that make up a family’s journey. There is nothing like having someone capture the love, strength, beauty, and empowerment that comes with birth!
My goal is to walk alongside you with an open, nonjudgmental heart, providing encouragement, optimism, and unwavering support as you navigate this sacred journey. I strive to bring a calming presence and create a safe space of comfort. You are worthy of a birth that reflects your desires and a space where your voice is heard every step of the way. Together, we will honor the beauty, resilience, and individuality of your path into parenthood.
 
 
 
This is motherhood!
 
 
I am a homeschooling, baby wearing, breastfeeding, allergy conscious mother of three girls and one boy, wife to a trucker, and fur mama to two pugs Enzo and Nico. I could spend all day at the beach, waterfalls, or any place in nature. Nature is my happy place. Sweets are my weakness. I love tacos and pasta, and prefer snacking over breakfast. Don't worry about the way your house looks, because I've definitely got my own piles of laundry and dishes at home! I'm far from perfect, I'm only human and believe learning is forever. I come with open arms, a listening ear, and an open mind to provide you with a safe space.
 
"Shanika was so down to earth. A deeply talented and wonderful woman!"
-Travayona
PORTLAND BIRTH PHOTOGRAPHER & DOULA
SERVING PORTLAND, VANCOUVER, DAYTON, NEWBERG, DUNDEE, MCMINNVILLE, SALEM, TUALATIN, TIGARD, BEAVERTON, HILLSBORO, BATTLEGROUND & SURROUNDING AREAS