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I Photograph Breastfeeding Moms To Show That It Shouldn’t Be Taboo
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I Photograph Breastfeeding Moms To Show That It Shouldn’t Be Taboo

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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

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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

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I wear my own breastfeeding battle scars proudly

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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

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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

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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!

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You can see more images here

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Melina Nastazia

Melina Nastazia

Author, Community member

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Melina Nastazia is a natural light photographer and her style is creative fine art. She is based in Brooklyn, NY, where she lives with her husband and three children. Before she fell in love with photography, she was an actor, and her theater background greatly informs her work. Through her images she seeks to tell stories and communicate ideas. She is fascinated by light and the many ways it can set the mood, create drama and complement emotion

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Melina Nastazia

Melina Nastazia

Author, Community member

Melina Nastazia is a natural light photographer and her style is creative fine art. She is based in Brooklyn, NY, where she lives with her husband and three children. Before she fell in love with photography, she was an actor, and her theater background greatly informs her work. Through her images she seeks to tell stories and communicate ideas. She is fascinated by light and the many ways it can set the mood, create drama and complement emotion

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Arty
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

so when you see a nipple it's considered "mature content"?? Still wondering why there is a taboo? Come on Bored Panda!

Elizabeth Newton
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I agree the point is to normalize boobies (and nipples) in the context of breastfeeding.

Load More Replies...
AnnieLaurie Burke
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Will never understand why some people are put off by breastfeeding Moms. The human race would not have survived without them.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

Sangfroid
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Just proves the point that we are not there yet, this beautiful, natural function is unfortunately still taboo. We need to normalize breastfeeding! <3

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Emma Wood
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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

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Danika Mills
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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

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Olga Vouloni
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Beautifully worded and accompanied by stunning images. Such a perfect Mothers Day tribute! Thank you!!

Foteini Vouloni
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

Justin McConnaughy
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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!!!

River Smith
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

why are all the subjects in the photos white? women of color breastfeed, too!

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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...
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Do the photos make you angry? Or does the fact that they are labeled that way make you angry?

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Keanu Watson
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

I'm just throwing a guess here, maybe the reason is due to the younger teens or lil boys using this site who aren't I guess a way to put it is, ready to see this stuff? lol Idk I guess I'm just rambling some things.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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...
stephanie willett
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Man, in my experience with breastfeeding it wasn't so glamorous. How about wet spew how truly hard it is, that would normalize it. If new mom's knew it was hard and that it is hard to stick it out when you get started,maybe less would give up. Maybe if the ladies were in dirty t shirts and sweaty pants and their babies were crying and spitting up on them, make that look pretty and maybe it would normalize it.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

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Sergiu Ionescu
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

this should stop. I don't care what people think but this should be done at home or in private. it's just wrong.

Olga Vouloni
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Babies get hungry everywhere. Not just in the 'privacy' of their homes. The only thing that is 'wrong' is your backwards attitude.

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Szufla
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

I just do not understand why all of the sudden ladies breast are normal thing to show of to everyone. Only becouse a child is sucking milk from it ? It`s kind a ridiculus. It`s should be personal, just like urinating or pooping. It`s also natural but no one hurrys to make a photos of it how we should expose it to the others. Maybye start also make beautifull photos of childbirth becouse it is so natural that baby comes out of it`s mother. Show all of the blood, stretched vagina etc. Like someone sad in the comments "The human race would not have survived without them"

wemaxared
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

My friend just told me about this easiest method of earning money from home. I've just tried it and now I am making $4500 per month without spending too much time. you can alse learn about this trick by the link below -----------------------------> www.c­a­s­h-s­p­o­t­.­c­o­m

Szufla
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

I just do not get all the hype about un-tabooing public breast feeding. Normaly avarage modest woman do not show her naked breast and nipples to everyone right? So why all of the sudden when little human sucks milk out of it it is such a a normal thing to show to everyone around or even to make a photos. To make a pee or poop is also very natural human habbit, we also do it privately. Maybe it shouldn`t be so taboo? Make some photos of it maybe, it is so beautifull becouse its - natural !

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

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wemaxared
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

My friend just told me about this easiest method of earning money from home. I've just tried it and now I am making $4500 per month without spending too much time. you can alse learn about this trick by the link below --------------------------00--00-0-----> www.c­a­s­h-s­p­o­t­.­c­o­m

Tiberiu Mocanu
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

its awkward to talk whit a woman while she's breast feeding , i don't agree whit this post. and also all my friends share my opinion.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

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Nora H.
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Urinating is a perfectly natural thing, I do it when I need to. If you find it discomforting, just look away..

Kevin Davis
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

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L Rath
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Not interested in seeing anyone breatfeed. STOP forcing it onto people. We get it.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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. :)

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Cesi Baca
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

I don't think anyone feels breast feeding is taboo. I just think a lot of people feel it's should be done discretely in public. You obviously have to expose your breast to feed, so many people also feel it's not something that should be put on display. Unfortunately breast in this society and about every other on earth are considered sexual. Weird to me but true. Your photos are well done but nothing is going to change the way society views exposed breast.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

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Yesica1993
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Nobody needs to see that. Nobody. Women do it because it's a way to flaunt themselves in public. Then, when someone DARES to complain, they use the excuse, "I'm just feeding my baby!" That's bull. I've seen plenty of women breastfeeding and they can do it DISCREETLY. I've seen it done even in church and no one can see. Most people can't even tell at all, unless you're used to it and you're then aware of what's going on. Keep your close ON, women. Stop using your kids as an excuse to be an exhibitionist.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

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klydefrosch
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Absolutely right. Next time please show photos of birth giving moms to show, that it shouldnt be a taboo. And please show photos of women while changing their used tampon. It also shouldnt be a taboo. So as taking a s**t.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

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Jaime Saucedo
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Where the black, Hispanic and Asian babies though

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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...
Pooty Tang
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

I think there's a big difference between 'taboo' and 'private'. Sex is a beautiful and natural bond between two humans also, but doesn't it lose something when you put it on display for the world to see? Why feel the need to show the world this wonderful thing you're doing? After all, are you doing it for selfish reasons (an agenda, to get attention)?

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

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Joy Curtis
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Showing your breasts in public is exhibitionism. Exposing yourself is not a necessary part of breastfeeding.

Gail Upton
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

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Greg Merc
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

its so ugly ...giant and grown age children drinking milk from breast!!!!!!!sicko pats ...

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

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Arty
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

so when you see a nipple it's considered "mature content"?? Still wondering why there is a taboo? Come on Bored Panda!

Elizabeth Newton
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I agree the point is to normalize boobies (and nipples) in the context of breastfeeding.

Load More Replies...
AnnieLaurie Burke
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Will never understand why some people are put off by breastfeeding Moms. The human race would not have survived without them.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

Sangfroid
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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...
Emma Wood
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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...
Danika Mills
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Beautifully worded and accompanied by stunning images. Such a perfect Mothers Day tribute! Thank you!!

Foteini Vouloni
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

Justin McConnaughy
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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!!!

River Smith
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

why are all the subjects in the photos white? women of color breastfeed, too!

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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...
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Do the photos make you angry? Or does the fact that they are labeled that way make you angry?

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Keanu Watson
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

I'm just throwing a guess here, maybe the reason is due to the younger teens or lil boys using this site who aren't I guess a way to put it is, ready to see this stuff? lol Idk I guess I'm just rambling some things.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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...
stephanie willett
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Man, in my experience with breastfeeding it wasn't so glamorous. How about wet spew how truly hard it is, that would normalize it. If new mom's knew it was hard and that it is hard to stick it out when you get started,maybe less would give up. Maybe if the ladies were in dirty t shirts and sweaty pants and their babies were crying and spitting up on them, make that look pretty and maybe it would normalize it.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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...
Sergiu Ionescu
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

this should stop. I don't care what people think but this should be done at home or in private. it's just wrong.

Olga Vouloni
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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...
Szufla
Community Member
8 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

I just do not understand why all of the sudden ladies breast are normal thing to show of to everyone. Only becouse a child is sucking milk from it ? It`s kind a ridiculus. It`s should be personal, just like urinating or pooping. It`s also natural but no one hurrys to make a photos of it how we should expose it to the others. Maybye start also make beautifull photos of childbirth becouse it is so natural that baby comes out of it`s mother. Show all of the blood, stretched vagina etc. Like someone sad in the comments "The human race would not have survived without them"

wemaxared
Community Member
8 years ago

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Szufla
Community Member
8 years ago

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I just do not get all the hype about un-tabooing public breast feeding. Normaly avarage modest woman do not show her naked breast and nipples to everyone right? So why all of the sudden when little human sucks milk out of it it is such a a normal thing to show to everyone around or even to make a photos. To make a pee or poop is also very natural human habbit, we also do it privately. Maybe it shouldn`t be so taboo? Make some photos of it maybe, it is so beautifull becouse its - natural !

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

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wemaxared
Community Member
8 years ago

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Tiberiu Mocanu
Community Member
8 years ago

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its awkward to talk whit a woman while she's breast feeding , i don't agree whit this post. and also all my friends share my opinion.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

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Nora H.
Community Member
8 years ago

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Urinating is a perfectly natural thing, I do it when I need to. If you find it discomforting, just look away..

Kevin Davis
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

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L Rath
Community Member
8 years ago

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Not interested in seeing anyone breatfeed. STOP forcing it onto people. We get it.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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. :)

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Cesi Baca
Community Member
8 years ago

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I don't think anyone feels breast feeding is taboo. I just think a lot of people feel it's should be done discretely in public. You obviously have to expose your breast to feed, so many people also feel it's not something that should be put on display. Unfortunately breast in this society and about every other on earth are considered sexual. Weird to me but true. Your photos are well done but nothing is going to change the way society views exposed breast.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

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Yesica1993
Community Member
8 years ago

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Nobody needs to see that. Nobody. Women do it because it's a way to flaunt themselves in public. Then, when someone DARES to complain, they use the excuse, "I'm just feeding my baby!" That's bull. I've seen plenty of women breastfeeding and they can do it DISCREETLY. I've seen it done even in church and no one can see. Most people can't even tell at all, unless you're used to it and you're then aware of what's going on. Keep your close ON, women. Stop using your kids as an excuse to be an exhibitionist.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

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klydefrosch
Community Member
8 years ago

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Absolutely right. Next time please show photos of birth giving moms to show, that it shouldnt be a taboo. And please show photos of women while changing their used tampon. It also shouldnt be a taboo. So as taking a s**t.

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

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Jaime Saucedo
Community Member
8 years ago

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Where the black, Hispanic and Asian babies though

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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

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Pooty Tang
Community Member
8 years ago

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I think there's a big difference between 'taboo' and 'private'. Sex is a beautiful and natural bond between two humans also, but doesn't it lose something when you put it on display for the world to see? Why feel the need to show the world this wonderful thing you're doing? After all, are you doing it for selfish reasons (an agenda, to get attention)?

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

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Joy Curtis
Community Member
8 years ago

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Showing your breasts in public is exhibitionism. Exposing yourself is not a necessary part of breastfeeding.

Gail Upton
Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

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Greg Merc
Community Member
8 years ago

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its so ugly ...giant and grown age children drinking milk from breast!!!!!!!sicko pats ...

Community Member
8 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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.

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