In September, photographers wowed us with their creativity in an open category showcasing their very best work. For our 3rd Quarter contest, in-hospital photographers took on the challenge of capturing unforgettable “siblings” moments. Meanwhile, our Bella Life photographers shared stunning family memories captured outside the hospital.
Now for the best part, watch the video below to see the magic and meet our amazing winners!
Congratulations to all our talented winners, and thank you for letting us peek behind the lens! We loved hearing the stories that made these moments so special. Here are a few of our favorites.
Bella Baby September Winners
“This sweet baby was finally getting released from the NICU. She was very calm and sleepy, and mom had nice neutral items for her to wear. She was so calm asleep that she gave me all kinds of dream smiles. I loved how the swaddle matched the wall behind them. Baby was in dad’s arms, and I had mom hold the other side of her face. She smiled just as I snapped the photo. I love meeting the newborns and seeing their personalities, and sweet dream smiles are an added bonus.” -Kate Fowler, 1st Place
“This mom came prepared for photos with rainbow-patterned PJs and a matching swaddle for baby — such a sweet touch. I used the hospital curtain as a clean, simple backdrop. The soft light from the wall of windows filled the room beautifully. This pose is one of my favorites for moms who feel a little self-conscious right after birth — it lets them tuck in behind their partner and baby for a natural, cozy portrait that still feels connected and confident.” -Jen DeGrosky, 2nd Place
Bella Baby 3rd Quarter Winners
“Welcoming sweet baby Cooper into the world was definitely a full family affair. The room was filled with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and two excited older siblings. His big sister was ready for her new role, while his big (but still little) brother wasn’t quite sure what to make of it all. Of course, I had to include the oversized It’s a Boy balloons. They captured the joy and energy in the room perfectly.
In the middle of all that excitement, I looked for the quieter moments that show just how adored this new little person already is. My goal with every hospital session is to capture what these first days really feel like, and this one was full of joy, a little chaos, and a whole lot of heart.” -Donna Uettwiller, 1st Place
Bella Life 3rd Quarter Winners
“When I first met the parents in the hospital, they told me they only planned on purchasing a few prints. By the time I started photographing their baby, his mom laughed and said, “Who am I kidding—I’m going to buy all of them!” They ended up buying a diamond collection as soon as they saw the photos.
I took this image during the Diamond sitting, in the smallest pocket of light from their bedroom window. I was wedged between the wall and furniture, and they were tucked between the bed and the window—but the light was perfect. Sometimes all it takes is a few inches of space, a cozy pose, and the right moment.” -Jen DeGrosky, 1st Place
“This was a sweet, single mother who was excited to bring her new baby boy into the pack. She had a large studio photo of her with her dogs from a few years ago, and I thought I might try to give her an updated version. The dogs weren’t terribly excited to take this photo (and not huge fans of the basket) but with a little patience and a lot of treats we made it work.” -Laurel Albrecht, 2nd Place
Final thoughts
From controlled chaos to cozy family snuggles, these images show the magic our photographers create every day. We’re so proud to celebrate their talent and the families behind these beautiful moments.
