The human body is capable of many incredible things–the most amazing being childbirth. When a baby is born, words often fail to describe the emotions that overcome parents. But where people are left speechless, there is the power of the image to convey the gravity of the experience. Birth photographers take on the role of artist and documentarian to craft compelling compositions that capture heartfelt moments from labor, immortalize the awe-inspiring power of moms, and paint portraits of happy (and exhausted) families.
The 2019 Birth Becomes Her Image Contest recognizes the best in birth photography. This year was their biggest yet with over 1,200 submissions from creatives around the world. In the end, the judges chose an overall winner as well as first, second, and third-place category winners. The photographs range from scenes inside hospitals to what life is like once the babies are home. Each winner offers a nuanced view of the birthing process, and together these acknowledged images are a complete look at childbirth through the photographers’ masterful eyes.
London-based Sadie Wild Photography took home the top prize for her image of a woman just after giving birth. The mom looks elated—but exhausted—as nursing staff tends to her and her newborn wrapped in a towel. All at once, this image communicates the love and happiness a new mom feels while offering a powerful reminder of the medical professionals that help make birth safe for so many women.
Scroll down for more winners from 2019 Birth Becomes Her Image Contest and how they have captured fleeting moments that will surely be cherished forever.
