The Outstanding Maternity Award, celebrating its 34th season in December 2024, continues to serve as a prestigious global platform for maternity and family photographers to gain recognition and showcase their artistic talents. This milestone event brought together photographers from various countries, demonstrating the competition's international scope and the universal appeal of capturing family moments. Founded in 2014, the award has evolved into a significant institution within the photography community, providing artists with opportunities to expand their reach and influence.
The 34th season was distinguished by its exceptional judging panel featuring two acclaimed photographers: Nastya Gia and Donatella Nicolini. Nastya Gia brings over six years of specialized experience in maternity photography, known for her elegant style inspired by editorial photography. Her global impact extends through 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, establishing her as a leading voice in the field.
Donatella Nicolini, the other esteemed judge, contributes 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, and 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, further cementing her status in the photography world.
The judging process, led by Gia and Nicolini, maintained rigorous standards focused on selecting photographs that demonstrated both technical skill and the ability to capture the essence of motherhood and family. Their combined expertise ensured the award continued to uphold its reputation for celebrating truly outstanding work in maternity and family photography. Eliane Pellegrini, Co-Founder of the Outstanding Maternity Award, emphasized the significance of maternity photography in capturing the emotional and transformative aspects of motherhood, noting photographers' unique ability to portray love, connection, and the timeless beauty of life.
The impact of the Outstanding Maternity Award extends beyond individual recognition, serving as a catalyst for bringing people together and inspiring new perspectives on family and motherhood. The contest's global reach underscores photography's power to transcend language and cultural barriers, creating shared appreciation for artistic expression. As the award looks toward future seasons, it continues to play a vital role in elevating the entire field of maternity and family photography while celebrating innovation and the profound moments that define human experience. Photographers and enthusiasts can view the winning entries from the 34th season by visiting https://www.outstandingmaternityaward.com/winners.
