Baby's First Moments of Life: Powerful Photos of Women Giving Birth

Birth photography is a highly specialized field and the choice to have the experience documented is an intensely personal decision. It involves the birth process, environment, the parents and those in attendance. 

Birth photography encompasses the tears of joy, the wonder of bringing a new life into the world and celebrates family. The photographers who specialize in the field use their art to tell the story of birth.

The winners of 2017 contest have been announced. The International Association of Professional Birth Photographers chose the best photos which depict the struggle of mothers in giving birth to their babies. Have a look at these photos to see how life begins and the emotions read on the faces of new parents.

I've Been Waiting For You Vanessa Mendez Birth Photography

Best In Category: Birth Details, Pieces Of Me Kourtnie Scholz

That First Gaze Peanuts and Parents

Falling In Love All Over Again KEDocumentary

Are You My Mama? Jennifer Mason Photography

Best In Category: Delivery, With A Splash Elizabeth Farnsworth Photography

First Place Winner. Road To Deliverance Jaydene Freund – Cradled Creations

Absorb Bailey Nicole Photography

The First Look Amber Denae Photography

Honorable Mentions. Surprise KimBerly E. Photography

Beautiful Transition Birth Unscripted

Honorable Mentions. Gentle Caesarean Birth Belle Verdiglione Photography

Honorable Mentions. Before The First Breath Birth In Focus

Birth In Colour Tree of Life Doula Photography

Breathe Brezi Photography

Honorable Mentions. Birth Of A Mother Cat Fancote – Capturing Birth

Honorable Mentions. 17 Years Of Waiting: A Non-fertility Miracle Ker-Fox Photography

Honorable Mentions. Rapture Katie Mathis Photography

Euphoria, Triumph An Infinite Moment Photography

Best In Category: Labor, Determination Katie Mathis Photography

Baby's First Defense An Infinite Moment Photography

The World Ahead Jessica Worland Photography