In the womb babies live in a weightless, liquid environment that supports the full weight of their bodies and are aided by the placenta that provides the baby with oxygen rich blood. Once born the weight of their head or body on their limbs can cause inadequate blood flow resulting in too little oxygen being delivered to that area, a condition known as hypoxia. After three minutes of oxygen deprivation, cells begin to die, releasing cytokines, and causing a ripple effect of damage spreading out from the area where blood flow was severed.

During your photography session, observe the baby for signs that indicate there is too much weight or pressure on the upper or lower extremities. Be mindful of arms, hands, legs or feet that go blue, pale or red, which could be an indication of poor blood circulation.

Babies do NOT sweat in the womb. They live in a liquid, temperature controlled environment. Once born they are unable to properly regulate their body temperature so it’s important to be mindful of overheating, which may cause the baby to become lethargic, falling into a deeper sleep to conserve energy and putting them at a higher risk for heatstroke and SIDS.

A photography studio does NOT need to be uncomfortably warm. During your Newborn session if you notice sweating, damp hair, hot skin, flushed or pale skin tone, rapid pulse, rapid breathing, sluggishness, non-responsiveness, or signs of dehydration. This baby needs urgent medical attention.

In the womb babies receive oxygen from the placenta. Once born babies have to rely on their under-developed airways to breathe. These airways can be easily compromised or kinked due to the heavy weight of their heads, meaning they are now prone to positional asphyxiation.

Babies positioned with their chin resting on their chest (in any direction) for even brief periods of time may lead to hypoxia (oxygen deprivation/reduced oxygen saturation.)

Throughout your photography session be mindful of the baby’s colour and breathing at all times. If their lips start to turn blue or there is signs that they are struggling to breathe ie. constant bobbing or repositioning of the head, gasping for air or labored breathing, or they become non-responsive seek urgent medical attention.