Outstanding Maternity Award Celebrates 34th Season with Global Photography Excellence

The Outstanding Maternity Award, a prestigious competition celebrating the art of maternity and family photography, marked its 34th season in December 2024. This milestone event brought together talented photographers from various countries, showcasing their ability to transform fleeting moments into enduring art. Founded in 2014, the Outstanding Maternity Award has become a global platform for photographers to gain recognition and expand their reach. The 34th season was particularly notable for its international scope and the caliber of its judging panel, featuring two acclaimed photographers: Nastya Gia and Donatella Nicolini.

Nastya Gia, with over six years of specialized experience in maternity photography, is known for her elegant style inspired by editorial photography. Her global presence is evident through her international photo sessions, masterclasses, and online courses that have reached over 1,000 students worldwide. Gia's work has garnered attention from numerous magazines and has been featured on book covers. Donatella Nicolini, the other esteemed judge, brings a unique blend of classic elegance and bold creativity to her work. Her achievements include being named "Maternity Photographer of the Year" in 2020 and "Family Photographer of the Year" in 2021 by the Society of Photographers in London.

Nicolini made history as the first maternity photographer to become a Canon EMEA Ambassador. Her portfolio boasts publications in leading magazines such as Vanity Fair, Elle, Marie Claire, and Rolling Stone. In 2023, Forbes recognized her talent by including her in the "100 Successful Women" list. The judging process, led by Gia and Nicolini, was rigorous and focused on selecting photographs that not only demonstrated technical skill but also captured the essence of motherhood and family. Their expertise ensured that the award continued to uphold its high standards and celebrate truly outstanding work in the field.

Eliane Pellegrini, Co-Founder of the Outstanding Maternity Award, emphasized the significance of maternity photography in capturing the emotional and transformative aspects of motherhood. She noted that these photographers possess a unique ability to portray love, connection, and the timeless beauty of life, creating stories that resonate across cultures and generations. The impact of the Outstanding Maternity Award extends beyond recognition of individual photographers. It serves as a catalyst for bringing people together, inspiring new perspectives, and celebrating the universal themes of family and motherhood.

The contest's global reach highlights the power of photography to transcend language and cultural barriers, creating a shared appreciation for the art form. As the Outstanding Maternity Award looks towards future seasons, it continues to play a vital role in the photography community. By providing a platform for talented artists to showcase their work, the award not only amplifies the notoriety of individual photographers but also elevates the entire field of maternity and family photography. The success of the 34th season sets a high bar for future competitions and underscores the enduring appeal of maternity and family photography.

As the art form evolves, the Outstanding Maternity Award remains at the forefront, celebrating innovation, creativity, and the profound moments that define the human experience. Photographers and enthusiasts interested in viewing the winning entries from the 34th season can visit thewinners page. The gallery showcases the diverse and captivating work that earned recognition in this year's competition, offering inspiration and insight into the current state of maternity and family photography worldwide.