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The International Association of Professional Birth Photographers has announced the winners of their 2017 contest, and the photos they chose show the struggles mothers go through to bring new life into the world, and the sheer joy that follows.
Each photo tells a story of pain, perseverance, and finally, relief. They document a baby’s first moments of life, and a family’s first moments of unity.
Many of the photos below are intense and graphic, so reader discretion is advised. They are all, however, powerful in their own unique ways.
#1 Best In Category: Birth Details, Pieces Of Me
Image source: Kourtnie Scholz
#2 Best In Category: Postpartum, Straight From Heaven
Image source: Natasha Hance – Birth Unscripted
#3 I’ve Been Waiting For You
Image source: Vanessa Mendez Birth Photography
#4 Falling In Love All Over Again
Image source: KEDocumentary
#5 That First Gaze
Image source: Peanuts and Parents
#6 Best In Category: Delivery, With A Splash
Image source: Elizabeth Farnsworth Photography
#7 Skin To Skin Today. Heart To Heart Always
Image source: Catherine Brown Birth & Lifestyle Photography
#8 Are You My Mama?
Image source: Jennifer Mason Photography
#9 First Place Winner. Road To Deliverance
Image source: Jaydene Freund – Cradled Creations
#10 Freshly Squeezed
Image source: Apple Blossom Families
#11 The End: A New Beginning
Image source: Caryn Scanlan Photography
#12 Honorable Mentions. Approaching Life
Image source: Deborah Elenter
You’ve seen the best shots, now take a look at the funny newborn photo shoot fails.
