A black american mother holds her baby firmly close to her chest inside a traditional African sling next to a softly lit window.

Reborn From Within: A Photo Documentary Project

A Baby being gently held by his mother between her legs slightly above water in an herbal bath with flower petals inside of it; Still attached to his umbilical cord after his birth alongside a container holding the placenta.

Reborn From Within: Honoring the Power of Birth

Birth is one of the most profound and transformative experiences in life—an expression of strength, vulnerability, and deep connection. Reborn From Within is a visual storytelling project dedicated to capturing the raw beauty of childbirth in its many forms. Through intimate photography and personal narratives, this project seeks to celebrate, uplift, and unite birthing individuals and their communities.

Preserving Birth Stories, Creating Lasting Impact

This project is more than a collection of images; it’s a movement to:

  • Honor and humanize the birth experience in all its depth and beauty

  • Break down stigmas and cultural barriers surrounding childbirth

  • Inspire positive change in maternal healthcare and support systems

By sharing these stories, Reborn From Within aims to shed light on:

  • The realities faced by individuals of color in maternal healthcare

  • The diverse experiences of parents from all backgrounds and life paths

  • The resilience of communities navigating social and economic challenges

Embracing Tradition, Reclaiming Birth Narratives

For generations, birth has been guided by wisdom, intuition, and cultural traditions. This project will also explore:

  • The knowledge and care of traditional birth attendants

  • Holistic approaches to prenatal and postpartum wellness

  • Innovative methods for comfort, pain management, and empowerment

Through these stories, Reborn From Within will serve as a lasting archive of birth experiences, a platform for empowerment, and an inspiration for future birth advocates and change-makers.

Birth is not just a personal journey—it’s a collective experience that connects us all. By sharing these stories, we honor the past, embrace the present, and help shape a more inclusive and supportive future for birthing individuals everywhere.

Want to Work Together?

This project is a labor of love, created to honor the strength, beauty, and power of women in birth. By participating, you acknowledge that the images captured are going to be used by me (Stephanie Cabrera) to promote and showcase,

As a thank-you for your participation, you will receive high-resolution images that you are welcome to print and share for personal use.

This project is my life's work and my livelihood. The proceeds from this project go directly toward supporting my ability to continue documenting these incredible stories.

I am deeply honored by every story shared with me, and I cherish the opportunity to document these powerful journeys. While I receive many heartfelt applications, I am only able to take on a limited number of births each year to ensure that I can give each family the care, time, and attention their story deserves.

Filling out the form is the first step in the process, but it does not guarantee participation. Each story is unique, and I carefully consider many factors when selecting participants. If I’m unable to include your birth in this project at this time, please know that your story still matters, and I deeply appreciate you reaching out.

Thank you for your trust and for being part of this movement to celebrate the beauty and strength of birth.

Check out My F.A.Q section below. And if you have more questions please feel free to reach out VIA the contact form.

Born in strength, cradled in love—every birth is a story of resilience, power, and new beginnings

  • Reborn From Within is a photographic documentary project that celebrates the beauty, strength, and diversity of birth. Through intimate photography and storytelling, I aim to honor birthing individuals, their support systems, and the traditions that shape their experiences.

  • I welcome individuals and families from all backgrounds who are planning a birth, particularly those experiencing home births, birth center births, or hospital births. If you feel called to share your story and help shift perspectives on birth, I’d love to hear from you!

  • By participating, you agree that the images and narratives may be used to showcase and promote this project, including exhibitions, publications, online platforms, and educational materials. My goal is to uplift birth stories and create a lasting archive that inspires and informs others through all forms of media.

  • As a thank-you for your trust and openness, you will receive a selection of high-resolution images that you are welcome to print and share for personal use. However, these images may not be sold or used for profit.

  • No, there is no cost to participate. However, as this is my full-time work, the proceeds from this project help support me in continuing to document birth stories. This allows me to cover expenses like travel, equipment, childcare, and a fair wage for my time and dedication.

  • I deeply respect your comfort level and boundaries. Before your birth, we will discuss what I document and if you are comfortable sharing, including what types of photos I’m looking to create and what you’re okay with. This is a story that needs to be shared, and I want to make sure everyone is comfortable with what this project calls for before we start.

  • Simply fill out the contact form on my website with some details about your upcoming birth. I review each submission carefully and will reach out if it seems like a good fit.

  • I receive many heartfelt applications each year, and while I would love to document every birth, I can only take on a limited number to ensure I can give each family the attention and care they deserve. Filling out the form is the first step, but it does not guarantee participation. If I’m unable to include your birth at this time, please know that I deeply appreciate your willingness to share your story.

  • That’s completely okay! If you’re curious but unsure, feel free to reach out. I’d love to chat, answer any questions, and help you decide if this feels right for you. There’s no pressure—just an open conversation about what feels best for you and your family.

A Newborns' cute little feet resting on his mothers belly as she holds him gently above the water of her birthing tub.