26 stunning images that perfectly capture the emotions of childbirth

2017 Annual Birth Photography Competition Winners

(*Warning: contains nudity)

Each year, the International Association of Professional Birth Photographers holds a competition to find the best birth photos from around the world.

“Birth photography is a highly specialised field and the choice to have the experience documented is an intensely personal decision,” the competition organisers explain.

“It involves the birth process, environment, the parents and those in attendance. It encompasses the tears of joy, the wonder of bringing a new life into the world and celebrates family. The photographers who specialise in the field use their art to tell the story of birth.”

To find out more about birth photography, visit the IAPBP website. The organisation was created to help expectant parents who are looking for a professional birth photographer. The IAPBP database can help you find a local pro via their online directory, and has over 1,350 members in 37 countries.