Birth photos are raw and powerful, capturing memories that mums and dads will never, ever forget. And the winning entries of the Birth Becomes Her 2019 annual photography contest are pretty awe-inspiring.
This year’s competition received more than 1,200 images of births around the world. “There is nothing more valuable than preserving memories from the very best days of your life,” the organisers said. These three were voted the best.
(Please note: this article contains images that some may consider graphic).
First Place
Second Place
Third Place
A series of photos were honoured in smaller categories, such as best black and white photo, best hospital image and best postpartum photo. We’ve rounded up a selection of our favourites below – but you can view the full collection here.
And while you’re at it, why not read some extraordinary stories about the everyday miracle of birth in our Birth Diaries series or hear from nine real women about what childbirth really, actually feels like.
View all the 2019 birth contest winners here.