The Transformation

By the end of the SSBV foundational course, you will have:

  • Mastered the core techniques for shooting the essential audio and visual building blocks for birth filmmaking.

  • Developed a solid foundation in videography production that allows you to transition smoothly from photography to film.

  • Laid the groundwork for more in depth training in birth filmmaking, with the opportunity to upgrade to the SSBV Advanced Course at discounted rate when you’re ready to level up your skills.

Why Choose the SSBV Foundational Course?

Your perfect starting point for building confidence and mastering videography basics as a birth photographer

  • Designed for Birth Photographers

    We understand the unique challenges of shooting birth films and have tailored this course specifically for you, making sure you’re prepared to tackle the nuances of the birth space.

  • Build Your Confidence

    Master the fundamentals at your own pace, without the pressure of advanced techniques. By the end of this course, you’ll feel confident in your ability to shoot and edit emotional, cinematic birth films.

  • Self-Paced, Flexible Learning

    Learn at your own pace, on your own schedule. Whether you’re working full-time or balancing family life, SSBV Foundational Course lets you study whenever and wherever works for you.

  • Affordable Pricing

    SSBV Foundational Course is an entry-level, cost-effective option that makes videography accessible, without compromising the quality and training you deserve. It’s the perfect way to start your journey without a large upfront investment.

  • Foundational Learning

    The course covers storytelling and videography camerawork essentials with a focus on filming in the birth space, giving you a solid foundation that prepares you for real-world projects from day one.

  • Upgrade Opportunity

    Once you’ve completed the SSBV Foundational Course, you’ll have the option to upgrade to the SSBV Advanced Course (with an exclusive discount) allowing you to continue your videography education as your skill and confidence grows.

Experience Value

Foundations Course Experience

800

Learning Supports & Resources

200+

Community & Studio Access

120+

Bonuses & Perks

150+

Foundations Experience Value (USD)

$1,270

A gentle entry point into soulful storytelling — designed to build confidence, clarity, and creative momentum.

SSBV Foundational Preview

Click on the headings below to preview the content covered in each module

    1. Welcome to SSBV Foundations + Important Info

    2. Navigating Your Course Player

    3. Creative Mindsets for Storytelling Success

    4. Your Community Space Inside SSBV Foundations

    5. Before We Begin...

    1. Welcome Icebreaker and Overview

      FREE PREVIEW

    2. Introductions—Get to Know the Community

      FREE PREVIEW

    3. Our Story—Get to Know Your Instructors

      FREE PREVIEW

    1. Introduction to Storytelling Overview

    2. Video Production—What Sets Videography Apart from Photography?

    3. The Role of the Storyteller—What Does It Take To Communicate Effectively?

    4. Anatomy of a Story—What Makes a Good Story?

    5. Next Steps — Creating Stories With Depth

    1. Get to Know Your Equipment Overview

    2. Camera Equipment—Birth Filmmakers Kit Essentials

    3. Audio Equipment—Optimise the Quality of Your Audio Recording

    4. Camera Operation—Video Related Camera Settings

    5. Lighting Solutions—Filming in Low Light and Fixing Banding

    1. Camerawork Essentials Overview

    2. Camerawork Fundamentals—Three Dimensions of Videography

    3. Static Shots—Harnessing Movement Within the Frame

    4. Camerawork Assignment: Practice Static Shots

    5. Moving Shots—Introducing Camera Movement

    6. Camerawork Assignment: Practice Moving Shots

    7. Creative Shots—Spicing Up Your Camerawork

    8. Camerawork Assignment: Practice Creative Shots

    9. Case Study: Grey's Anatomy (Identify Shot Types and camera Techniques )

    10. Camerawork Wrap Up Q&A

    1. Importance of Audio

    2. Dialogue—Establish Authenticity, Personality and Connection

    3. Narratives—Drive Your Story and Add Depth to Your Films

    4. Talking Heads—Communicate Important Information and Establish Connection

    5. Ambient Sound—Establish Atmosphere and Sense of Place and Time

    6. Music—Drive Your Visuals, Reinforce Stylistic Choices and Evoke Emotion

    7. Sound FX—Reinforce Your Visuals and Build Immersive Soundscapes

    8. Silence—Create Breathing Room and Heighten the Authenticity of a Moment

    9. Recording Quality Audio

    10. Assignment: Recording Audio

Course Experience

  • 60 lessons
  • 9.5 hours of video content

The Experience

Learn the Craft

A gentle, confidence-building starting point — designed to help you begin filming and editing with clarity and ease.

  • Foundations lessons designed for beginners
  • Guided creative exercises to build filming confidence
  • Simple workflow support to help you start editing without overwhelm
  • Optional pathway forward into Advanced or Signature when you’re ready
Stay Connected

You don’t have to learn alone — Foundations includes a supportive space to stay encouraged and connected as you practice.

  • Community chat access for questions + encouragement
  • Community announcements
  • Community events + replays (when available)
  • Gentle accountability check-ins
Grow With Mentorship

Light-touch guidance and community support to help you keep momentum and move through early questions with confidence.

  • Community guidance + shared learning (as you practice)
  • Optional access to mentorship upgrades (if desired)
  • Supportive prompts to keep you moving
  • A clear next step into deeper mentorship when you’re ready
Keep Growing

Practical supports designed to help you build consistency — and keep growing at a pace that fits your real life.

  • Foundations-aligned resources and templates (where included)
  • Ongoing access to your course materials
  • Continued community support while you practice
  • Upgrade pathway options when you’re ready for more depth

Your Investment

Choose the pace that best supports your season of life and creative growth

Pay in Full

$1,000 USD

ONE-TIME PAYMENT

Best overall value for storytellers who prefer a simple, one-time investment.

Choose This Pace

6-Month Plan

$185 USD

PER MONTH × 6 MONTHS

A steady rhythm for storytellers building confidence and consistency.

Choose This Pace

All payment options include full access and support. Payment plan includes a small convenience fee for extended scheduling.

This is for you if...

You’re ready to begin filming birth stories — and want a calm, supportive starting point that builds confidence without overwhelm.

Foundations is designed for storytellers who:

  • Are ready to move from stills into motion and want clear guidance on where to begin.

  • Prefer a learning pace that feels manageable alongside real life and client work.

  • Want to build strong technical habits before diving into deeper storytelling frameworks.

  • Value clarity and confidence over rushing into complexity.

  • Are looking for a pathway that can naturally grow with them as their storytelling evolves.

What Our Students Say

Melanie Lopez—SSBV 2025

“I had my first birth to film, and it was fast and furious—baby arrived just 10 minutes after I got there! I was nervous, but thanks to the lessons in SSBV Foundational Course, I was able to stay calm, get usable footage, and really apply what I had learned. I can honestly say I would have crumbled without the course—it gave me the confidence and skills to capture the moments that truly matter.”
Photo of SSBV 2025 student Melanie Lopez

Looking for additional support?

tap into the resources, know-how and connection on offer within the soulful studio

Meet the Instructors

[Dania] Lauren+ [Andrew] Douglas

Hi, we're Dania and Andrew and we're a husband and wife team with over 30 years of combined experience in the field of documentary filmmaking and storytelling. Our core business 'Lauren + Douglas' offers artisan brand and lifestyle storytelling however crafting bespoke documentary-style birth films is our speciality.

Dania is the woman behind the lens when it comes to all things birth and is a multi-award winning photographer and videographer, recognised as one of the most influential birth videographers in Australia and worldwide. When he’s not wrangling our 4 kiddos you’ll find Andrew spearheading the development of the SSBV course and Soulful Storytellers community.

We’re both passionate about provoking a reimagining of birth films and are excited about helping fellow creatives elevate their storytelling craft in the process!
Learn more
Black and White Photo of Instructors | Soulful Storytellers

FAQs

  • Who is the SSBV Foundational Course for?

    The Foundational Course is designed for birth photographers who want to expand their skills into videography. If you’re eager to learn the basics of birth videography and develop a strong foundation, the SSBV Foundational Course is the perfect starting point!

  • What's included in the foundational course?

    The SSBV Foundational Course includes: 8+ hours of lessons covering the basics of filmmaking, including camera settings, shooting techniques, and an introduction to editing. Assignments to help you practice and solidify your new skills. These core elements will give you the essential tools you need to start filming birth with confidence.

  • How long will I have access to the course?

    Ongoing (lifetime) access. Revisit lessons anytime and at your own pace, giving you the flexibility to learn around your schedule.

  • Is mentorship included?

    Mentorship is optional. Add 1:1 or group sessions at a discounted rate to receive expert guidance, feedback on projects, and accelerate your learning.

  • Are there practical assignments?

    Yes! Hands-on assignments help you apply skills in real-life scenarios. Optional community support and project critiques can be purchased as add-ons to ensure your storytelling continues to improve.

  • What makes this course different from others?

    Created by husband-and-wife duo at Lauren + Douglas, SSBV Foundations draws on decades of documentary filmmaking experience and years of training emerging creatives. Dania is a multi-award-winning photographer and videographer, recognised as one of the most influential birth storytellers in Australia and internationally.

    What truly sets SSBV Foundations apart is the instructors’ unique coaching style, blending creativity, experience, and a passion for empowering students to discover their own storytelling voice. Designed as the essential first step in the SSBV journey, this course provides a solid foundation to confidently launch your birth filmmaking practice and prepare for advanced storytelling in SSBV Advanced.

  • Is community access included?

    Community access is optional but highly recommended. Connect with fellow creatives, share work, and get ongoing support. Membership can be added at a discounted rate. Community memberships are currently available at never to be repeated foundational rates.

  • Can I submit my films to the Soulful Storytellers Film Festival?

    Film Festival submissions are not included but come included in our get engaged and get activated community memberships. Showcase your work and gain exposure in a supportive, professional environment.

  • Can I upgrade to the Signature or Advanced course later?

    Yes! Your foundational skills give you a strong starting point. Upgrading allows access to advanced workflows, conceptualisation, and deeper mentorship opportunities.

Want to Learn More Before You Enrol?

Join the VIP list for updates, soulful storytelling tips,
plus early access to intake sales and exclusive discounts.

 

By signing up, you agree to receive occasional emails from Soulful Storytellers. You can unsubscribe anytime.

Keep Exploring Your Options

Compare courses and find the right path for your journey