If you've been following me on Facebook or Instagram, you probably already know that I took part in a breastfeeding image contest hosted by Birth Becomes Her in honor of World Breastfeeding Week. I'm extremely happy to say that after five days of public voting, and after thousands of votes cast, the image that I submitted, as part of my most recent birth story, was nominated into the top 15! While I didn't eventually go on to win the competition, I am so proud to have even made it that far: I will never forget capturing that beautiful moment; what was happening between Mom and Baby caused such a rush and stir in my emotions, and I couldn't believe what was happening right in front of my own eyes! Little Dario has SO much heart and soul and you can already see it in his tender eyes.

Thank you to everyone who voted for me! I really appreciate you taking the time to do that! If you would like to see the list winners and the incredible selection of finalists, click here. 

View fullsize

Natural Hospital Birth Photography In Dubai, UAE

I met Nazli and Henry when Nazli was only 32 weeks pregnant. I remember leaving their home feeling completely invigorated by the love they have built into their lives, and I really hoped that I would be able to shoot their birth story. It is always incredibly special if you're able to make it to a birth, specially as a photographer, because things can sometimes happen so quickly that you might miss it all!

Nazli's due date rolled by. We both waited patiently for baby to announce the right time to begin it's journey. Finally, a few days later, I got a text from Henry indicating that things might be starting to happen *Butterflies* The next morning, I got another text from Henry at around 6am that Nazli's checked into the hospital. A couple of hours later I made my way out to meet them. It was finally happening!

Walking into the labor and delivery room, I had the exact same feeling I had when I walked into their home just some weeks earlier, and then watching them as a couple work together through the contractions as they came in. Breathe in. Breathe out. Embracing. Synchronized. Like a couple of surfers attached at the hip, riding those waves as they came in. My God. It was beautiful. God Bless them!

Nazli and Henry, thank you so much for trusting me with this incredible honor. Wishing your new family of three lots of love, harmony and peace, and can't wait to see you guys all again!