Photo Tips

These are just some tips we learnt while our daughter was in the ICU and in talking to other parents and looking at other baby’s photos.
If you have any good ideas you would like to share with other parents please contact us and we will include them here.
The 400-speed film works really well in the ICU setting. It allows you to take photos without a flash.
Try to avoid using a flash near the isolet. It will reflect onto the surface of the isolet and all you will get is a bright light in your photo.
Most hospitals have a Polaroid camera. If you can’t get to see your baby often, ask if you can buy a film for the Polaroid camera and have the nurses take some photos for you.
Try to take a photo with a familiar object. Wedding rings are a popular choice – place it over the baby’s hand and most times your little one will wear it like a bracelet. Paige had a number of photos taken with a 20c piece. Make sure that whatever you put into your baby’s cot has been thoroughly cleaned and that it is OK with the medical staff.
Take as many photos as possible, your baby is changing every day and photos will always be there to remind you and her as she grows exactly how small she was and the fight she went through. You think you will always remember how small she was but time dims the memory and photos will refresh your memories.
Take photos of the milestones your baby makes. Changing cots, first bath, first cuddle, first feed.
Take photos of the baby’s machines, drips etc.
If you have a cuddle, ask the nurse to take a photo of you and the baby and if dad is around getting him in the photo.
The primary aim of PIPA is to provide practical and emotional support to the parents and families of premature infants. However we do not offer professional advice. We are parents of preterm baby’s and not medical staff. We do offer understanding, support, encouragement and friendship.