15 of the most dynamic birth photos

Birth is raw, unpredictable, messy, and just plain magical. Every birth story is different. But what remains the same is the sheer force of a woman’s body as she delivers. Bringing a baby into the world takes power. You can see the power in a woman’s body – from the strong contractions, the gushes of amniotic fluid, birthing her baby en caul, or preparing for surgery to bring her baby here safely. That’s strength. That’s power. That’s birth.

Birth can be transformative, regardless of the method or location of delivery. We collected some of the most amazing photos that showcase and celebrate the awesome power of giving birth.

 

Talk about an action shot! This mama’s water broke just as the baby’s head emerged. The photographer snapped this once-in-a-lifetime shot that is just jaw-dropping! | Carey Lauren Photo, Arizona

Hands-off, instinctual, uninterrupted. This baby was born into their mother’s hands in spectacular fashion. | Nurturing Birth Doula and Photography, Alaska

This is birth.

The water splash.

Mother and father working together unison.

The little feet of the new big siblings peeking out in the background.

Such a special shot. Such a special experience. | Sadie Wild Photography, England

Texas has the highest maternal mortality rate in the industrialized world for Black women. The @birtharlington birthing center – where this birth occurred – along with this midwife have made it their mission to support Black women and provide good patient care and patient advocacy. Being supported in your pregnancy care, during birth, and during the postpartum period is critical for good patient outcomes, and this team is doing whatever it can to support women through this life-changing experience. This momma is a #badassmotherbirther who delivered her child standing up – fully supported by her amazing birthing team, which understands that trust is earned. | Midwife Meredith Braudaway, Texas

Born en caul: this rare type of birth happens in less than 1 in 80,000 births. Many cultures view babies born in their sacs – often called “veiled births” – as a sign of good luck for a baby and their parents. | Jessica Vi Photography, The Netherlands

What a catch! This warrior momma birthed her baby while standing, with her trusty birthing team on standby to assist when needed. This gorgeous baby was born covered in birthday frosting, otherwise known as vernix, and was quickly passed up to meet their momma. | MOMMAKTSHOOTS, Kentucky

She felt the urge to push. She surrendered to her body, then ferociously and graciously met her baby boy. | Indiana Birth Photographer, Indiana

This is a photo of the vaginal twin birth of twin B, who was born completely en caul. The little girl, named Luna, gives us a rare glimpse as to what babies look like all curled up inside their mothers. This is a once-in-a-lifetime shot of a very special birth. | Rafael Rosa Fotografia, Brazil

He entered this world with a splash! This is a spectacular shot of the messy and beautiful side of birth. That moment when the pain stops and your baby is here in all their messy glory. Frozen in time for all eternity. | Martha Grace Photography, Australia

I can feel this photo! The sheer power of the contraction is awe-inspiring. You can see her giving in and letting her uterus do the hard work to move her baby down. A woman’s body is absolutely incredible! | Fresh Pine Photography, Missouri

This doula snapped this spectacular image of a powerful momma in what she calls ”the birth prayer” position. With mama perched at the edge of her bed, this baby came quickly as she rocked gently, using a yoga ball for support. The birthing team had just enough time to put some pads down before this baby made their way earthside. | Columbus Birth Doula, Ohio

This is one crazy nuchal cord. Don’t worry – both baby and momma were just fine. The midwife had to take a few extra moments to untangle this babe before passing them to mom. | Brittney Hogue Photo, Illinois

Providing support, the medical team is gently guiding this baby down the birth canal. Between worlds, this little one is seconds away from meeting their mother. We love this photo showing the nuchal cord, those cheeks, the lips, and a scrunched-up face – in a side of birth we don’t often see. | Renate Van Lith Fotografie, The Netherlands

Taking in the moment before the craziness that is birth begins. Taking a moment to speak with her unborn child, this mother waits patiently in the OR while her medical team gets set up. This portrait, called Portraits of Affection, showcases exactly that – the affection between mother and child even before they’ve met. | Retratos Deafeto, Brazil

She leaned over and watched as her body birthed her fourth son. She remained calm and controlled as she listened and felt the droplets of water fall on her back. | Empowered Pathways Doula and Photo, Colorado