The Outstanding Maternity Award and Outstanding Photo Award have announced the winners of their 41st season, featuring photographers from 14 countries. The competition, which began in 2014, has become a global benchmark for family photography, aiming to tell deep and unforgettable stories through images.
The award’s significance extends beyond the recognition itself. For photographers, winning an international award brings renewed enthusiasm and validation of their artistic direction. For potential clients, the award seal serves as a mark of trust and credibility, enhancing the photographer’s portfolio appeal.
This season’s winners come from Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Germany, Latvia, Luxembourg, Portugal, Russia, Slovakia, Switzerland, Turkey, the United States, and Uruguay. The diverse representation underscores the award’s reach and the universal power of photography to connect cultures.
The judging panel for Season 41 included Yvonne C. Krystovsky from Germany and Wellington Fugisse from Brazil. Krystovsky, an internationally acclaimed photographer specializing in maternity, newborn, and fine art portraiture, brings a minimalist aesthetic influenced by her background in interior design and architecture. Her work has been featured in The Times and My Modern Met, and she has won top honors at the Black & White Minimalist Photography Prize. She judges entries based on originality, composition, technical excellence, and emotional connection.
Fugisse, with over 15 years of experience and more than a thousand events covered, is known for his sensitivity and creativity in weddings, family, and maternity photography. He is also a mentor and educator, conducting workshops and lectures, and serves as an ambassador for major industry brands. His judging criteria focus on emotional authenticity and technical skill.
The Outstanding Maternity Award was established in 2014 to celebrate the art of maternity and family photography. It provides a platform for photographers to gain recognition, increase visibility, and reach new audiences. The award’s mission is to shine a light on life’s most beautiful narratives and promote artistic excellence globally.
Photographers interested in entering the upcoming Season 42 are encouraged to submit their work. The submission portal is available at Outstanding Maternity Award. As the organization notes, “It will be an honor to have you with us.”
The success of Season 41 demonstrates the continued growth of the competition and its importance in the photography community. By bringing together diverse talents from around the world, the award not only celebrates individual achievement but also fosters a sense of global connection through the art of photography.
