Meet Nikole Isom-Owen | Birth & Lifestyle Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nikole Isom-Owen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nikole, we’d love for you to start things off by telling us something about your industry that we and others not in the industry might be unaware of?
One of the most notable aspects of this industry (birth photography, as a specialized field within photography) is that it never loses its sense of awe and wonder. I continue to be inspired and deeply moved by every birth I have the privilege to witness and document. Each birth tells a different story, marked by its own challenges, emotions, ups and downs, which makes every experience unique and profoundly meaningful. The diversity of these journeys highlights the grace and complexity of life’s beginnings, and it is an honor to capture such intimate and metamorphic moments for families to hold dear forever.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
It is hard to say what sets one apart in such a growing industry as birth photography. To tell you the truth, it is quite a niche that is expanding day by day, and often people assume they can do it themselves and don’t need to hire someone. In some regards, that can be true. You could set up a camera in the corner of the room, have your husband take photos, or use your phone to do so. The reality is that when you choose a birth photographer—or any photographer in general—you choose their style, their personality, and your comfort level with them.

I consider myself lucky to work with families who have welcomed me into their journey. Given how intimate and personal birth can be, it is so important to find an energy you connect with, or someone who is so unobtrusive that it feels like they aren’t there at all—simply witnessing or supporting the moment. I have been part of many different styles of births, from birth centers to hospitals, and each experience is unique. Each birth was different, and I played a different role.

My first birth I attended did not go as planned, but the couple I worked with moved through it all with such grace and trust, remaining focused and believing that everything would work out as it was meant to. I was there to witness and capture moments of empowerment, awe, first cries, and the flood of emotions. At times, I had the pleasure of being part of the support team—offering encouragement when needed—and I even got to cut the cord at the couple’s request!

I am still on my journey into birth photography, and I don’t find the business aspect easy per se. But the actual shooting and being present in those moments is effortless and breathtaking. The challenges lie in the niche nature of birth photography: you either know you want it, have no idea it’s something people even offer, or think it’s a little unusual. That’s why I try to network, meet people, and show what it really is—beautiful, empowering, and a crucial part of the story.

I want the world to know that these moments are fleeting. We often look back and say, “I wish I had done this.” To be honest, I don’t remember a majority of my son’s birth, and I am extremely thankful to have photos and videos that my doula took on her phone. They allowed me to place certain moments. The rest is a blur. So, if you want to remember these moments before our lovely brains make us forget them—do it! Get a photographer. Each birth only happens once and is incredibly special.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My favorite spots around San Diego are quite diverse and, unsurprisingly, mostly revolve around food.

To start off, Public Square Coffee in La Mesa is to die for. My go-to items are the Scone and Butter Flight or their Signature Breakfast Sandwich, and of course, the Brown Suga’ Latte. Everything is made in-house, fresh, and served by real people with great personalities who genuinely enjoy what they do. The atmosphere is as warm as the food!

For lunch or dinner, it’s a tie between Dumpling Inn & Shanghai Saloon and Prime Grill Korean BBQ & Restaurant. The best part? They’re located across the street from each other on Convoy Street. So if one is packed, just head to the other!

At Dumpling Inn, the dumplings are made fresh daily, and we never leave without ordering at least 4–8 trays, depending on how many friends are with us. As for Prime Grill, their all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ is very reasonably priced for the amount (and quality) of food you get. Just a tip—maybe don’t eat all day before you go! We love mixing their various meats with kimchi, and their steamed eggs are hands-down my favorite item—I go there specifically for them. If you’re in the mood for a drink, try the pineapple soju—a refreshing mix of fresh pineapple and plain soju. It’s simple, delicious, and dangerously easy to drink.

Now for dessert! Right next to the Korean BBQ spot is SomiSomi, a Korean-style soft serve ice cream shop where you can get your dessert in a warm, fish-shaped waffle cone (called taiyaki). It’s fresh, not too sweet, and the perfect end to a meal.

For a more unconventional pick, one of my all-time favorite things to do is take a walk through Old Town San Diego. It’s something I’ve done since I was a kid, and we still do it to this day. While the history is fascinating, let’s be honest—we go for the food. Right in front of Café Coyote, you’ll find women making fresh tortillas by hand, which you can buy for just a few dollars. Add a bit of butter and fresh salsa—perfection. Then walk a few steps down to Old Town Mexican Café for your full meal. My personal favorites are the posole, the carnitas, and their house-made flan. After that, make sure to stop by Cousin’s Candy Shop for old-fashioned candies, fresh taffy, or fudge.

And finally, up the coast in Cardiff, you’ll find some of the best donuts at VG’s Donuts & Bakery. While the donuts are fantastic, I’m especially nostalgic about their frosted smiley-face cookies—they’ve tasted exactly the same for years. Plus, it’s right across the street from the beach, so you can grab a treat and take in the ocean view.

The best part about San Diego? You can find almost any type of food you’re craving. From traditional to trendy, comforting to adventurous—there’s something for everyone.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
To begin with, the main reason I am able to do what I love is the unwavering support of my husband and family. Without his encouragement and support, I am not 100% sure I would have pursued this path. Another person who comes to mind is one of my midwives during the birth of my son, Lindsey Oakes. The irony of their support lies in the fact that when I was deciding whether to become a doula or a birth photographer, there were initially jokes about which option would be more financially rewarding. However, the conversation soon shifted to focus on what would make me happy and truly fulfill me. The support I received has been unyielding.

Last but not least is my doula, Melinda Olson, who supported me throughout the birth of my son—from at-home labor, to the transfer to the birth center, and finally to the hospital. A strong bond was forged, and she has continued to support me whenever I reach out, whether it is for a simple yes or no, or advice on what to do next. She is a huge reason I made the leap and continue to progress on this journey.

Thank you to all the others who know who they are and who often work behind the scenes, supporting me day to day.

Website: https://deliveringmoments.mypixieset.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deliveringmomentsphoto/