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I Photograph Breastfeeding Moms To Show That It Shouldn’t Be Taboo
In honour of Mother’s Day this year, I decided to put together a breastfeeding series focusing on one of the many ways that mothers nurture, soothe, and comfort across the globe.
Breastfeeding has always been a topic I hold close to my heart. I find the miraculous way our bodies can grow, birth and nourish babies simply fascinating.
After three babies of my own, I know first hand that breastfeeding is not always simple or easy. It presents a series of challenges that range from physical to emotional. It is not for every mother, or for every child. Sometimes it isn’t even a choice. I respect and support the difficult decisions all mamas make to provide what is best for their babies.
Join me in celebrating the love present in these moments and uplifting Mommies everywhere. Happy Mother’s Day!!
More info: Facebook
This project was inspired by an incident that occurred when I posted my first breastfeeding self-portrait on the internet
What absolutely baffled me is the negativity and blatant shaming that nursing mothers face daily, particularly when it stems from other women
I wear my own breastfeeding battle scars proudly
They prevented me from nursing my first baby the way I wanted, for as long as I wanted
The second time around was much easier
I was able to experience the incredible bond and euphoria through breastfeeding, that I had yearned to feel the first time
I took this self portrait when my younger daughter was starting to wean, so that I could have a tangible memory of those cherished moments
My self portrait encapsulates love and motherhood in all the little details I want to remember
It also stands for strength and perseverance in the name of challenges
It’s sometimes not even a choice and I respect and support the difficult decisions all mamas make to provide what is best for their babies
When I photograph mothers nursing their children I am overcome with a sense of peace that permeates my entire being
The connection and love present is powerful, organic, sometimes raw, but absolutely beautiful
I feel the need to celebrate and bring awareness to a topic that still remains as taboo as it is natural
Join me in celebrating the love present in these moments and uplifting Mommies everywhere
Happy Mother’s Day!
You can see more images here
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What do you think ?
Arty 8 years ago
so when you see a nipple it's considered "mature content"?? Still wondering why there is a taboo? Come on Bored Panda!
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
I'm with you Arty! It is meant for babies not mature audiences. :)
Load More Replies...
Elizabeth Newton 8 years ago
I don't get why you'd post this story about the beauty of breastfeeding, then put up "mature content" warnings on half of the photo's. Isn't the whole point of this to stop the taboo? This is completely hypocritical
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
I agree the point is to normalize boobies (and nipples) in the context of breastfeeding.
Load More Replies...
AnnieLaurie Burke 8 years ago
Will never understand why some people are put off by breastfeeding Moms. The human race would not have survived without them.
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Thank you so much Bored Panda, for lifting the 'mature content' warnings. Small steps that are so important to normalize breastfeeding!! Happy Mother's Day!! <3
Candice Heinen 8 years ago
This is so beautiful! I am so amazed everyday how women are magical beings! Not only can we create a human life, we can sustain them as well. What a beautiful project to help normalize breastfeeding. I think that some people forgot what the main purpose of breasts are for. I am still unsure why people think its ok to have less than nothing on peoples bodies on music videos, and other sources of media. but think that this is unacceptable. If you as a person are uneasy of breastfeeding. Then look away like you would do to war, or starving children, or any inhumane thing that you deem acceptable.
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Very eloquently put, Candice! Thank you so much!! <3
Load More Replies...
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Thank you very much Yasmin!!! <3
Load More Replies...
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
A bit contradictory, I know... :/
Load More Replies... Sangfroid 8 years ago
So, all you need is to be mature enough to click on 'Mature' content? I'm pretty sure all the 'perverted' people or children, that they are trying to 'protect', are going to click anyway. So f*****g stupid to try and stigmatize a beautiful, natural human function. AND, all it seems they are considering 'mature' content is where the nipple is fully exposed? Bored Panda, you should be ashamed of yourselves.
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Just proves the point that we are not there yet, this beautiful, natural function is unfortunately still taboo. We need to normalize breastfeeding! <3
Load More Replies...
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Thank you very much Jacqueline! This project is very close to my heart, so it really means a lot!! <3
Load More Replies...
Emma Wood 8 years ago
So in love with all of these and knowing Melinas beautiful soul, I'm not a tiny bit surprised that she captured these. Raw, emotive, natural, beautiful - this project is possible my favorite of all time.
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Thank you so much lovely Emma!! Your words made me cry (and it isn't the first time). So much love to you!!!! Happy Mother's Day!!! <3
Load More Replies...
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Thank you so much Christine!! Happy Mother's Day lovely!!! <3
Load More Replies...
Danika Mills 8 years ago
It's a shame to me that all human beings are not able to see the sheer beauty that is the female body, and the magic it beholds. It saddens me to think that there are so many who cannot see the breathtaking beauty that is present when a mother feeds her child. Its such a natural miracle in this life. To love and protect, to bond and nourish. These are things that are given to us biologically. There is no argument in that. I am proud that I could give myself to my babies in such a beautiful way. I admire all those who do. I feel for those who can't. These images are stunning. They are a tribute to the very best parts of us. I'm so sorry for you if you can't see what I see. I appreciate this post, these words, these images. I'm proud to be a woman and a breastfeeding mother.
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Thank you so much Danika!!!! Your words are so beautiful and spot on. That is how I feel. That is why I started this project. Thank you for voicing this beautiful perspective. I hope it is heard loud and clear! <3
Load More Replies...
Olga Vouloni 8 years ago
Beautifully worded and accompanied by stunning images. Such a perfect Mothers Day tribute! Thank you!!
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
I am so happy it resonated with you! Thank you! :)
Load More Replies...
Dana Decals 8 years ago
These are absolutely beautiful, intimate, and touching. So much love, care and tenderness. <3
Foteini Vouloni 8 years ago
So emotive portraits and such precious moments of breastfeeding!!!!! I adore the love and the tenderness between mather-baby,the light and the softness of the colors.
Foteini Vouloni 8 years ago
This is such an emotional piece! Thank you for bringing awareness to such an important topic! Gorgeous images!
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Thank you Natasha! It still makes me cry too, each time I watch it! So much love was present... <3
Load More Replies...
Justin McConnaughy 8 years ago
Such a wonderful tribute in both photographs and words about the special bond between mother and child that should be celebrated and upheld and embraced and cherished. Thank you for such an artistic foray and a beatiful example of combining creativity with passion and heart. Love!!!
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Thank you very much Jaroslaw!! <3
Load More Replies... Titika McGrew 8 years ago
Such a beautiful depiction of Motherhood! So much tenderness, love and joy in these images! Lovely, artful work!
River Smith 8 years ago
why are all the subjects in the photos white? women of color breastfeed, too!
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Excellent point River! I put out a casting call encouraging Moms of all sizes, ages, colors, types and races to submit. I was hoping to represent a greater diversity, including extended feeding, tandem feeding, feeding of multiples etc. In the time I had to put this together, based on response, studio and Mom/child availability, these were the people I was able to photograph. I wanted to put it out there. I will most certainly keep shooting breastfeeding portraits, keep putting it out there and hope to represent every breastfeeding Mom!!
Load More Replies...
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Do the photos make you angry? Or does the fact that they are labeled that way make you angry?
Load More Replies...
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Breasts are not being shown in a sexual context. Breasts are being shown in the context they were intended for by nature: nurturing babies. "This stuff" is completely innocent and should be totally normal for anyone to see. As normal as bottle feeding. Or do you think that might shock teens too?
Load More Replies...
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
The point of this series is to show the beauty and connection. The value, the love, the details to forever look back on. I see the merit in your idea too. That would definitely be interesting and along the lines of some birth Photography. These images were not glamorized however. I document the moments as they happened naturally. No elaborate re touching took place. The point is to accept breastfeeding as normal regardless of what Moms are wearing or if they brushed their hair.
Load More Replies...
Olga Vouloni 8 years ago
Babies get hungry everywhere. Not just in the 'privacy' of their homes. The only thing that is 'wrong' is your backwards attitude.
Load More Replies... 
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Clearly people still have a lot to say on 'this'.
Load More Replies... Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Perhaps you don't 'get it', Szufla, because you haven't had to feed your baby in a disgusting public bathroom just to avoid comments and stares from people like you. I get emails from women daily thanking me for my effort to normalize breastfeeding so that they can feed their babies in peace without worrying about being shamed for it. Babies need to eat frequently and regardless of whether they are in public or private. Moms have the right to feed them anywhere, and should not have to feel forced into the bathroom, an area reserved for dirty and unsanitary bodily functions. Eating is not one of those.
Load More Replies... 
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
If you feel awkward, maybe you should give her some privacy. You think a baby shouldn't eat so you can be comfortable. I would say, if you are so uncomfortable excuse yourself.
Load More Replies...
Kevin Davis 8 years ago
Let's stop comparing babies eating with bathroom habits. One is smelly and unsanitary, the other is simple sustenance. Urinating in public is also illegal. Breastfeeding in public is perfectly legal and in many places it is illegal to prohibit a mother from feeding her child anywhere and anyhow she wants.
Load More Replies...
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
If you don't want to see it, don't click on the article. If you don't want to see it on the street, look away. It isn't about you. It is about mothers giving their babies what they need. :)
Load More Replies...
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Society sexualized breasts to the point that we've forgotten what they are for. It is up to us to change that. We shouldn't wash our hands clean of it. We have made progress in so many areas recently. Time to remember that breasts are about feeding babies. Anywhere they need to be fed. It should be about their comfort, and not about the discomfort of a handful of people who find it impossible to simply look away.
Load More Replies...
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
It has nothing to do with exhibitionism. It has to do with feeding your child when your child needs fed while you go about your daily business. Some babies will not latch with a cover. Some babies get hot, sweaty and uncomfortable under a blanket. Breasts were made to feed. It is as simple as that. Time to stop shaming Moms for doing their job! And if you are offended, don't look...that is pretty simple too.
Load More Replies...
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
There are many fantastic and tasteful birth photographers. I believe Bored Panda recently did a post about that too. I certainly believe that bathroom activities should stay in the bathroom and private. They are smelly and unsanitary. I don't see what that has to do with breastfeeding. Breastfeeding is about providing nourishment for your child, and early on that means almost every hour. Let's give mothers a little more respect and make their lives a little easier.
Load More Replies...
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Excellent point Jaime! I put out a casting call encouraging Moms of all sizes, ages, colors, types and races to submit. I would have loved to represent a greater diversity, including extended feeding, tandem feeding, feeding of multiples etc. In the time I had to put this together, based on response, studio and Mom availability, these were the people I was able to photograph. I will most certainly keep shooting breastfeeding portraits and hope to represent every breastfeeding Mom!! <3
Load More Replies...
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
I am doing this, Pooty, to raise awareness. To normalize breastfeeding. To argue that it isn't private, and it certainly isn't sexual. Because feeding a baby is simply about providing nourishment. A baby needs to eat whenever he or she is hungry. Moms should be able to feed their babies wherever they may be: on the train, on the street, at work, on the beach. The law, thankfully, protects my right to feed my baby anywhere, and with this project I am hoping to change some conservatives who like to shame them for it.
Load More Replies...
Gail Upton 8 years ago
It is hard enough to worry about finding a comfortable spot to sit and getting your baby to latch. No mom needs the added pressure of covering up and all the fumbling and discomfort that goes with it. For those who can rock covers and blankets. Great! But it is very uncomfortable for some babies. The shaming has to stop. It has nothing to do with exhibitionism. It has nothing to do with sexuality. It has to do with feeding your child.
Load More Replies...
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
They are certainly not giant, they are certainly not grown. It is actually recommended by the association of pediatrics that children breastfeed for a least the first two years. You are entitled to your opinion. But the only ugliness I see is in your words.
Load More Replies... Arty 8 years ago
so when you see a nipple it's considered "mature content"?? Still wondering why there is a taboo? Come on Bored Panda!
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
I'm with you Arty! It is meant for babies not mature audiences. :)
Load More Replies... Elizabeth Newton 8 years ago
I don't get why you'd post this story about the beauty of breastfeeding, then put up "mature content" warnings on half of the photo's. Isn't the whole point of this to stop the taboo? This is completely hypocritical
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
I agree the point is to normalize boobies (and nipples) in the context of breastfeeding.
Load More Replies... AnnieLaurie Burke 8 years ago
Will never understand why some people are put off by breastfeeding Moms. The human race would not have survived without them.
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Thank you so much Bored Panda, for lifting the 'mature content' warnings. Small steps that are so important to normalize breastfeeding!! Happy Mother's Day!! <3
Candice Heinen 8 years ago
This is so beautiful! I am so amazed everyday how women are magical beings! Not only can we create a human life, we can sustain them as well. What a beautiful project to help normalize breastfeeding. I think that some people forgot what the main purpose of breasts are for. I am still unsure why people think its ok to have less than nothing on peoples bodies on music videos, and other sources of media. but think that this is unacceptable. If you as a person are uneasy of breastfeeding. Then look away like you would do to war, or starving children, or any inhumane thing that you deem acceptable.
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Very eloquently put, Candice! Thank you so much!! <3
Load More Replies... Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Thank you very much Yasmin!!! <3
Load More Replies... Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
A bit contradictory, I know... :/
Load More Replies... Sangfroid 8 years ago
So, all you need is to be mature enough to click on 'Mature' content? I'm pretty sure all the 'perverted' people or children, that they are trying to 'protect', are going to click anyway. So f*****g stupid to try and stigmatize a beautiful, natural human function. AND, all it seems they are considering 'mature' content is where the nipple is fully exposed? Bored Panda, you should be ashamed of yourselves.
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Just proves the point that we are not there yet, this beautiful, natural function is unfortunately still taboo. We need to normalize breastfeeding! <3
Load More Replies... Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Thank you very much Jacqueline! This project is very close to my heart, so it really means a lot!! <3
Load More Replies... Emma Wood 8 years ago
So in love with all of these and knowing Melinas beautiful soul, I'm not a tiny bit surprised that she captured these. Raw, emotive, natural, beautiful - this project is possible my favorite of all time.
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Thank you so much lovely Emma!! Your words made me cry (and it isn't the first time). So much love to you!!!! Happy Mother's Day!!! <3
Load More Replies... Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Thank you so much Christine!! Happy Mother's Day lovely!!! <3
Load More Replies... Danika Mills 8 years ago
It's a shame to me that all human beings are not able to see the sheer beauty that is the female body, and the magic it beholds. It saddens me to think that there are so many who cannot see the breathtaking beauty that is present when a mother feeds her child. Its such a natural miracle in this life. To love and protect, to bond and nourish. These are things that are given to us biologically. There is no argument in that. I am proud that I could give myself to my babies in such a beautiful way. I admire all those who do. I feel for those who can't. These images are stunning. They are a tribute to the very best parts of us. I'm so sorry for you if you can't see what I see. I appreciate this post, these words, these images. I'm proud to be a woman and a breastfeeding mother.
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Thank you so much Danika!!!! Your words are so beautiful and spot on. That is how I feel. That is why I started this project. Thank you for voicing this beautiful perspective. I hope it is heard loud and clear! <3
Load More Replies... Olga Vouloni 8 years ago
Beautifully worded and accompanied by stunning images. Such a perfect Mothers Day tribute! Thank you!!
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
I am so happy it resonated with you! Thank you! :)
Load More Replies... Dana Decals 8 years ago
These are absolutely beautiful, intimate, and touching. So much love, care and tenderness. <3
Foteini Vouloni 8 years ago
So emotive portraits and such precious moments of breastfeeding!!!!! I adore the love and the tenderness between mather-baby,the light and the softness of the colors.
Foteini Vouloni 8 years ago
This is such an emotional piece! Thank you for bringing awareness to such an important topic! Gorgeous images!
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Thank you Natasha! It still makes me cry too, each time I watch it! So much love was present... <3
Load More Replies... Justin McConnaughy 8 years ago
Such a wonderful tribute in both photographs and words about the special bond between mother and child that should be celebrated and upheld and embraced and cherished. Thank you for such an artistic foray and a beatiful example of combining creativity with passion and heart. Love!!!
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Thank you very much Jaroslaw!! <3
Load More Replies... Titika McGrew 8 years ago
Such a beautiful depiction of Motherhood! So much tenderness, love and joy in these images! Lovely, artful work!
River Smith 8 years ago
why are all the subjects in the photos white? women of color breastfeed, too!
Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Excellent point River! I put out a casting call encouraging Moms of all sizes, ages, colors, types and races to submit. I was hoping to represent a greater diversity, including extended feeding, tandem feeding, feeding of multiples etc. In the time I had to put this together, based on response, studio and Mom/child availability, these were the people I was able to photograph. I wanted to put it out there. I will most certainly keep shooting breastfeeding portraits, keep putting it out there and hope to represent every breastfeeding Mom!!
Load More Replies... Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Do the photos make you angry? Or does the fact that they are labeled that way make you angry?
Load More Replies... Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Breasts are not being shown in a sexual context. Breasts are being shown in the context they were intended for by nature: nurturing babies. "This stuff" is completely innocent and should be totally normal for anyone to see. As normal as bottle feeding. Or do you think that might shock teens too?
Load More Replies... Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
The point of this series is to show the beauty and connection. The value, the love, the details to forever look back on. I see the merit in your idea too. That would definitely be interesting and along the lines of some birth Photography. These images were not glamorized however. I document the moments as they happened naturally. No elaborate re touching took place. The point is to accept breastfeeding as normal regardless of what Moms are wearing or if they brushed their hair.
Load More Replies... Olga Vouloni 8 years ago
Babies get hungry everywhere. Not just in the 'privacy' of their homes. The only thing that is 'wrong' is your backwards attitude.
Load More Replies... Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Clearly people still have a lot to say on 'this'.
Load More Replies... Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Perhaps you don't 'get it', Szufla, because you haven't had to feed your baby in a disgusting public bathroom just to avoid comments and stares from people like you. I get emails from women daily thanking me for my effort to normalize breastfeeding so that they can feed their babies in peace without worrying about being shamed for it. Babies need to eat frequently and regardless of whether they are in public or private. Moms have the right to feed them anywhere, and should not have to feel forced into the bathroom, an area reserved for dirty and unsanitary bodily functions. Eating is not one of those.
Load More Replies... Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
If you feel awkward, maybe you should give her some privacy. You think a baby shouldn't eat so you can be comfortable. I would say, if you are so uncomfortable excuse yourself.
Load More Replies... Kevin Davis 8 years ago
Let's stop comparing babies eating with bathroom habits. One is smelly and unsanitary, the other is simple sustenance. Urinating in public is also illegal. Breastfeeding in public is perfectly legal and in many places it is illegal to prohibit a mother from feeding her child anywhere and anyhow she wants.
Load More Replies... Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
If you don't want to see it, don't click on the article. If you don't want to see it on the street, look away. It isn't about you. It is about mothers giving their babies what they need. :)
Load More Replies... Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Society sexualized breasts to the point that we've forgotten what they are for. It is up to us to change that. We shouldn't wash our hands clean of it. We have made progress in so many areas recently. Time to remember that breasts are about feeding babies. Anywhere they need to be fed. It should be about their comfort, and not about the discomfort of a handful of people who find it impossible to simply look away.
Load More Replies... Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
It has nothing to do with exhibitionism. It has to do with feeding your child when your child needs fed while you go about your daily business. Some babies will not latch with a cover. Some babies get hot, sweaty and uncomfortable under a blanket. Breasts were made to feed. It is as simple as that. Time to stop shaming Moms for doing their job! And if you are offended, don't look...that is pretty simple too.
Load More Replies... Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
There are many fantastic and tasteful birth photographers. I believe Bored Panda recently did a post about that too. I certainly believe that bathroom activities should stay in the bathroom and private. They are smelly and unsanitary. I don't see what that has to do with breastfeeding. Breastfeeding is about providing nourishment for your child, and early on that means almost every hour. Let's give mothers a little more respect and make their lives a little easier.
Load More Replies... Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
Excellent point Jaime! I put out a casting call encouraging Moms of all sizes, ages, colors, types and races to submit. I would have loved to represent a greater diversity, including extended feeding, tandem feeding, feeding of multiples etc. In the time I had to put this together, based on response, studio and Mom availability, these were the people I was able to photograph. I will most certainly keep shooting breastfeeding portraits and hope to represent every breastfeeding Mom!! <3
Load More Replies... Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
I am doing this, Pooty, to raise awareness. To normalize breastfeeding. To argue that it isn't private, and it certainly isn't sexual. Because feeding a baby is simply about providing nourishment. A baby needs to eat whenever he or she is hungry. Moms should be able to feed their babies wherever they may be: on the train, on the street, at work, on the beach. The law, thankfully, protects my right to feed my baby anywhere, and with this project I am hoping to change some conservatives who like to shame them for it.
Load More Replies... Gail Upton 8 years ago
It is hard enough to worry about finding a comfortable spot to sit and getting your baby to latch. No mom needs the added pressure of covering up and all the fumbling and discomfort that goes with it. For those who can rock covers and blankets. Great! But it is very uncomfortable for some babies. The shaming has to stop. It has nothing to do with exhibitionism. It has nothing to do with sexuality. It has to do with feeding your child.
Load More Replies... Melina Nastazia (Post author) 8 years ago
They are certainly not giant, they are certainly not grown. It is actually recommended by the association of pediatrics that children breastfeed for a least the first two years. You are entitled to your opinion. But the only ugliness I see is in your words.
Load More Replies...
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