17 Heartwarming Before-and-After Photos of Preemies Holding Their Newborn Pictures

Every day, babies are born prematurely worldwide—before 37 weeks of gestation.

In France, around 60,000 premature births occur annually, representing nearly 7% of live births—a figure up 22% in the last 15 years.

As part of his photography studies, Canadian student Red Méthot documented the remarkable journeys of these resilient children. A father of two preemies himself, he brings personal insight and authenticity to this touching series.

"My son arrived at 29 weeks, my daughter at 33," Méthot shares. "These are the images I craved during my first child's NICU days. They've triumphed and are thriving today."

Méthot recognizes the challenges—not all stories end happily, as one photo poignantly shows a survivor whose twin passed away. Yet countless preemies grow into healthy, vibrant kids.

Behold these inspiring transformations:

1. Lexiani, born at 25 weeks

Source: Red Méthot

2. Noah and Nathan, born at 32 weeks

Source: Red Méthot

3. Margot, born at 29 weeks

Source: Red Méthot

4. Thomas, born at 23 weeks

Source: Red Méthot

5. Samuel, born at 36 weeks, and sister Alicia, born at 27 weeks

Source: Red Méthot

6. Eva, born at 29 weeks

Source: Red Méthot

7. Charles, born at 26 weeks

Source: Red Méthot

8. Chloé, born at 32 weeks

Source: Red Méthot

9. Felix, born at 24 weeks

Source: Red Méthot

10. Félix, born at 23 weeks, and brother Alexis, born at almost 33 weeks

11. Noah, born at 32 weeks. His twin sister Victoria (left in photo) passed at 1 month

Source: Red Méthot

12. Juliette, born at 30 weeks

Source: Red Méthot

13. Leonard, born at 35 weeks

Source: Red Méthot

14. Olivier, born at 31 weeks; sister Ariane at 33 weeks; brother Noah at 34 weeks

Source: Red Méthot

15. Emile, born at 26 weeks

Source: Red Méthot

16. ThéO, born at 25 weeks

Source: Red Méthot

17. Charles-Antoine and Mara, born at 27 weeks

Source: Red Méthot

The project started with 10 photos but expanded thanks to overwhelming support and Méthot's passion—now totaling about 50. View the full collection on his Facebook page and website here.

"My favorite moments are meeting these families," he says. "Each encounter reveals a new story."

Méthot's lens powerfully captures hope and resilience. Read his full interview here.