15 Powerful Images of Childbirth in All Its Raw, Beautiful Glory

There are few moments in life more beautiful or deserving of being photographed than birth, and few photographs end up being quite so memorable as these amazing images. That’s why the International Association of Professional Birth Photographers (IAPBP) holds its annual Image of the Year competition, and this year’s winners are undeniably powerful. Just imagine gorgeous shots of parents welcoming in the most special joy in their lives: their new baby.

More from CafeMom: 6 Ways to Tell Baby’s Gender From an Early Sonogram

There is nothing more special than capturing the exact moment when a family grows a little stronger. When mom and dad welcome a new child, one can see their hearts fill with unbounding love. Capturing this sacred emotion is an art that many try, but few master. That’s why the recognition of the IAPBP is incredibly prestigious for birth photographers.

As the IAPBP put it, “Birth photography encompasses the tears of joy, the wonder of bringing a new life into the world and celebrates family,” and these photos accomplish all of that in spades.

More from CafeMom: 10 Rare Images of Babies Born in the Amniotic Sac

Take a look at these pictures and feel the power of sharing such an intimate moment with the viewer. (Bear in mind, like birth itself, some of these images are very graphic!)

Welcome to the World

img-of-media-slide-156621.jpg
International Association of Professional Birth Photographers

While most birth photography focuses on natural childbirth, this stunning photo proves that C-section births are no less dramatic!

The Waiting

img-of-media-slide-156622.jpg
International Association of Professional Birth Photographers

The title of this piece says it all: “The wait in silence and calmness.” Gorgeous!

Tears of Joy

img-of-media-slide-156623.jpg
International Association of Professional Birth Photographers

Has there ever been a photo that captures the raw emotion of childbirth quite so poignantly?

More from The Stir: 12 Breathtaking Images of Babies Right in the Middle of Being Born (PHOTOS)

Double Vision

img-of-media-slide-156624.jpg
International Association of Professional Birth Photographers

This mom has her hands full — in the best possible way!

A Helping Hand

img-of-media-slide-156629.jpg
International Association of Professional Birth Photographers

Sometimes there’s not much a partner can do to show support besides extend a hand (literally). But it’s enough to let this mom know she’s not alone!

Holding On

img-of-media-slide-156630.jpg
International Association of Professional Birth Photographers

Oh, that face! Hello, beautiful little one!

More from The Stir: Incredible Water Birth Photo Series Captures Pure Serenity in Delivery (PHOTOS)

A Dad Is Born

img-of-media-slide-156631.jpg
International Association of Professional Birth Photographers

An exquisitely fragile moment, and one any couple can relate to. Mom’s holding on pretty tight there!

Sister Act

img-of-media-slide-156632.jpg
International Association of Professional Birth Photographers

This beautifully tattooed mom’s sisters are getting in on the newborn snuggle fest!

Hello!

img-of-media-slide-156619.jpg
alexandra kayy photography/International Association of Professional Birth Photographers

The look on this baby’s face? PRICELESS. No wonder this pic snagged Honorable Mention!

More from The Stir: Incredible Images of Babies Being Born Give Us a Look at the Miracle of Birth

Serenity

img-of-media-slide-156618.jpg
Angela Gallo/International Association of Professional Birth Photographers

Fittingly titled “Maternal Grace,” the mama in this photo is impressively calm!

Baby Shower

img-of-media-slide-156616.jpg
Love By Krista Evans Photography/International Association of Professional Birth Photographers

We love the name of this Honorable Mention-winning entry, “It calls to her both loudly and softly in song.”

Best in Category: Delivery

img-of-media-slide-156613.jpg
Birth Blessings Photography and Childbirth Services/International Association of Professional Birth Photographers

Not only does this photo show a rare, unassisted twin delivery, it also depicts an incredibly rare “en caul” birth (when a baby is born entirely in the amniotic sac).

More from The Stir: 10 Rare Images of Babies Born in the Amniotic Sac

Best in Category: Postpartum

img-of-media-slide-156614.jpg
Natalia Walth Photography/International Association of Professional Birth Photographers

Called “Where peace begins,” this photo perfectly communicates the exhaustion and relief immediately following birth.

Best in Category: Labor

img-of-media-slide-156610.jpg
Apple Blossom Families/International Association of Professional Birth Photographers

It’s no mystery why this one is called “The Surge” — you can just see the wave of pain washing over this laboring mom. Childbirth is no joke!

First Place

img-of-media-slide-156609.jpg
Marijke Thoen Geboortefotografie/International Association of Professional Birth Photographers

Dreamy and dramatic, the magic of a baby’s first moments underwater earned this photo the first-place prize. Congrats!