Having a photographer present is a very personal decision, and one that isn’t right for everyone.
In the same vein, taking photos at a birth is not a job for just any old photographer.
The images submitted show a huge range of choices women make for themselves when it comes to childbirth.
Some choose to deliver in hospitals, others at home or in a birthing center.
The photos capture water births, Caesarean sections, women who labored with and without drugs.
But trust us, they’re worth looking at.
Here are just 17 of the stunning moments captured by birth photographers this year.
This underwater birth of a curly-haired baby.
This peaceful moment.
This break for fuel.
This arrival.
This twin delivery.
This show of strength.
This partner’s show of help.
This perfect capture of teamwork.
This newborn’s startled expression.
This second of reprieve.
This look of anticipation.
This first meeting as a family.
This dad’s first slow dance.
This introduction to twins.
This big sister’s first hello.
This baby’s first feed.
And this stunning family portrait.
