Photographers from around the world have joined forces with families to capture the extraordinary moments of childbirth, resulting in breathtaking images that showcase the rawness and beauty of the experience. These powerful photographs, shared as part of the International Association of Professional Birth Photographers’ annual Image of The Year competition, depict the pain, imperfections, and overwhelming love that permeate every family during this awe-inspiring journey.
Here are a few of the remarkable entries from the 2019 competition, including the first-place winner:
“Our Rainbow Baby is Finally Here” – A heartwarming image of an entire family eagerly welcoming their precious new addition.
“Nuchal Cord” – Practitioners delicately untangling an umbilical cord wrapped around a baby’s neck.
“The Cry” – A relieved father gazes upon his newborn baby as the mother cradles the child.
”Just 5 More Minutes” – A newborn lets out its first cry, marking its arrival into the world.
‘Just 5 More Minutes’
“Back on Land” – A new mother engages in skin-to-skin contact with her baby, fostering a deep connection.
‘Back on Land’
“Pure Joy” – The power of sisterhood empowers a woman to navigate the birthing process with strength.
‘Pure Joy’
“First Steps, with Beautiful Umbilical Cord” – A newborn takes its first steps while still connected to the umbilical cord.
‘First steps, with beautiful umbilical cord’
“Golden Hour: When Time Stands Still” – A mother embraces her baby in skin-to-skin contact after a successful water birth.
‘Golden Hour; when time stands still’
“First Contact after 14 Hours in NICU” – A mother is joyfully reunited with her newborn baby after a long separation.
‘First Contact after 14 Hours in NICU’
“Tears of a Father” – A father tearfully admires his partner as she lovingly holds their newborn child.
‘Tears of a Father’
“All Settled In” – A newborn finds comfort nestled in the arms of its adoring mother.
‘All Settled In’
Please note that viewing these emotionally charged images may evoke strong feelings