See the 8 Award-Winning Birth Photos of the Year

While we make it our mission to help prepare you for the reality of labor and delivery, sometimes, a picture says 1,000 words. That’s why we’re happy to share the winners of the seventh annual Image of the Year Competition from the International Association of Professional Birth Photographers.

Judges are asked to rate the photos based on three criteria:

TECHNICAL: Is the photo technically correct? Please consider focus, sharpness, detail, depth of field, color, brightness, contrast, saturation, usage of light, etc.

EMOTIONAL: Do you like the photograph? Did it move you? Did it create an emotion when you viewed the image? Is the image interesting? Original? Do you like the style?

COMPOSITION: Does the photograph tell a story? Where is your eye led to in the photograph? Is the photograph balanced, and if not, is it creating the visual impact it should? Please consider framing, viewpoint, background, visual impact.

As documented here, no two births are exactly alike. You’ll see emotions of excitement and relief. You’ll also see more graphic shots of amniotic sacs and umbilical cords. Fair warning: This might not be suitable for work.

Image: Marijke Thoen — Marijke Thoen Birthphotography

Image: rebecca coursey — rebecca coursey, photographer + doula

Image: DANIELA JUSTUS — DANIELA JUSTUS FOTOGRAFIA

Image: Esther Edith — Esther Edith Photographer & Doula

Image: DANIELA JUSTUS — DANIELA JUSTUS FOTOGRAFIA

Image: Esther Edith — Esther Edith Photographer & Doula

Image: Tamara Milldove — Milldove Photography – Maternity, Birth and Newborn

Image: Cat Fancote — Capturing Birth

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.