It is crazy to think that I have been a mom for 6 months. What’s even crazier to think is that I worked throughout my pregnancy. As a female filmmaker and cinematographer it was very important to keep working and filming till I absolutely couldn’t anymore.
Due to having been diagnosed with gestational diabetes, the goal was to reach 39 weeks before being induced. I walked several miles a day in order to keep my blood sugar down, had daily insulin injections, and had to monitor my glucose levels.
At 35 years old and being my first pregnancy, I was terrified. I absolutely hated needles, getting blood work, going to the doctors, and eventually pushing out a baby.
Most of all, I was terrified that I would have to give up my career and dream. I’ve had many people tell me that once I have kids, that I wouldn’t be able to do what I do now. I was also told that once I’m pregnant, I would not have the energy to do anything.
I set out to prove everyone wrong. I was working, driving, walking, exercising all up till the day before my labor.
Everything I had feared slowly went away. I was worried I wasn’t going to be able to film, and oddly enough I had a lot of energy to do so. In fact, when I was moving, Bradley was sleeping. It was only when I tried to sleep, which is when he would move around.
Being pregnant, poses some challenges as a camera operator. Your body is a lot heavier than you are used to. Add a camera and gear that’s more weight. I had gained 20lbs during my pregnancy, and the belly was starting to get in the way. It did make a good camera rest at times.
I just took my time and moved a lot slower just to make sure I didn’t fall or anything. I had a lot of supportive co-workers and friends who helped me. Aside from having to pee a lot and then having to wear a mask, it was routine as usual. I did find myself getting out of breath at times since I was getting heavier.
I think working kept my mind busy on the inevitable. It help me focus on one task at a time. I had a goal to make it to 39 weeks and deliver on February 20, 2021. People thought I was crazy and kept saying that you know your baby could come sooner.
I was determined to have the baby on the 20th, the day of my induction. Oddly enough, the morning of the 19th I went into labor. I didn’t realize it at the time, I went along with my tasks for the day, finishing up work and errands.
It wasn’t till early in the afternoon, I couldn’t handle the pain anymore and we decide to go to the hospital earlier than our scheduled time.
Long story short, I went into labor and delivered my son on February 20, 2021. Everything happened according to schedule and my plan. I can’t believe I did it. Looking back now, I’m so glad I kept going and not letting things get to me.
I was able to have the pregnancy that I always wanted and still continue to film doing what I love.
Shot by Aimee 