What a precious image of the first steps taken by parent and child, finally earthside together.
This photo is a work of art — showing the perfectly unique roundness of a pregnant belly encased in lace.
Both parents’ hands reach lovingly to touch their newborn, encircled by the soft glow of fairy lights, in this magical image.
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With baby nestled to their body from fresh out of the womb, this new parent captures the soft, gentle, and raw aspects of new life.
The past few years have been especially difficult on birthing people and new parents, from navigating incredibly stressful safety decisions, to the sudden switch to majority telehealth and virtual care, to the installment of difficult and sometimes upsetting restrictions within birthing spaces, and beyond. We often talk about how labor and postpartum typically include a mixture of both hard and joyful moments, intensity and beauty. While there is much change that must continue to be advocated for to provide parents with the support they need and deserve, even within these challenging times these images highlight that there is so much beauty to be found.
“I chose this image because of the resounding symbolism it carries. These hands represent all of our ancestors that have walked this Earth before us, that have birthed on this Earth before us. These hands remind us all that we are never alone and the spirits beyond are always seeking to guide us, if we choose to surrender to them and listen.”
“I chose this photo because of representation. So many times we’re told that large bodies can’t have babies without intervention. That we’re high risk and not worth the risk at the same time. This photo is strength personified and an ode to all birthing people in large bodies. Our bodies can birth.”
“From the warmth of the skin to the gentle ripples in the water to the soft wrinkles on those baby feet — I love everything about this photo. It radiates with light and love and joy.”
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“I fell in love with this image I chose- from the warm tone, composition to the glow of the lights in the birth pool. “The Whole World in My Hands” really made me feel that wholeness in a very gentle and complete way.”
“I chose ‘Are You My Mother?’ as my judge’s choice pick because it is a true piece of art. I love the colors and the lighting. And I am absolutely captivated by the cute little face of the baby! I want to know what thoughts are going on inside that head!”
This year, we added an Audience Choice category for the first time ever! Nine gorgeous images were shared with our audiences across email and social media and over 800 people cast their votes. The winner was…
From the details of the headboard, to the tattoos, to the gentle touch one mom places on the other’s head, to the gentle touch one mom places on baby’s cheek — this image is full of peace and love.
There is something so bright and beautiful about this shared moment of relief between these parents and their baby.
A clear and gorgeous example of gently stretching tissue, carefully guided and supported by providers’ hands.
Every partner may not have the chance or be inclined to catch their baby, but this dad’s hands take center stage to do just that!
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This close-up look at colostrum as it’s hand expressed proves why we call it liquid gold, and also how possible it is to collect these precious drop in our early postpartum hours.
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Have you heard of cord burning? This lovely, moody dim image shows how it’s often done, with a candle at either end of this pale, pulseless umbilical cord.
This image of baby gazing upward as a hand reaches their way is so calm, light, and lovely.
Truly a first glimpse — as it’s titled — this image captures a unique and precious moment in time.
Warmth exudes from this glowing skin-to-skin image — you can almost smell that baby smell just looking at it.
There’s nothing like those first looks at your baby girl, especially covered in all that beautiful vernix!
What could be cozier than skin-to-skin all snuggled up in bed with dads?
The powerful moment of crossing between womb, water, and air, captured in beautiful, gentle light.
This moody almost sepia-tone image exudes gentleness, calm, and the intense connection between newborn and parent.
Inequity in reproductive healthcare is a complex issue that needs to be confronted from many angles. Expanding representation through images of who gives birth — and where, and how, and with whom — this is a part of equity work.