1. Forum
  2. General Discussion | Introductions | Off Topic Forum
  3. Photography General Discussion
  4. Can babies be blinded by a camera flash?

Can babies be blinded by a camera flash?


9 years 6 months ago #406250 by Stacy Merrow
I have a client who wants photos of her newborn, but doesn't want me to use a flash because "babies can be blinded by a camera flash".  This is what she told me today.  Is that true?  
Photo Comments
,
9 years 6 months ago #406269 by Joves
I will put it this way, I was the first child in 1958, so there were a bagillion photos of me taken with way harsher flash than we use now. I was not the blind kid on the block, so you have your answer. :P
,
9 years 6 months ago #406272 by Stacy Merrow
Ok, that's what I thought.  I was Googling and didn't see any cold hard facts saying this was true or not.  
Photo Comments
,
9 years 6 months ago #406275 by Joves
If you need more light use a reflector with your flash. That way the un/misinformed mother will not worry. Explain that you need the additional lighting to get the photo.
,
9 years 6 months ago - 9 years 6 months ago #406279 by KCook
I like Jove's answer :evil:

However, at least on forums it's easy to find photographers (never mind parents) who are adamant that flash damages babies eyes.  Rather than fight that fight, try explaining to them that you control your flash with a heavy diffuser, or bounce, or whatever.  Links for more views -

www.photographytalk.com/forum/photograph...s-and-newborn-babies

www.photographytalk.com/forum/photograph...y-photos-1-month-old

digital-photography-school.com/photographing-babies/

www.iheartfaces.com/2013/02/newborn-phot...-use-flash-lighting/

littlemoonphotography.com/category/faq/

blinky
Canon 50D, Olympus PL2
kellycook.zenfolio.com/
,
9 years 6 months ago #406312 by icepics
My background is in education/child development with a specialization in birth to three. I haven't seen or read anything about a camera flash damaging a baby's vision.

However - you are a guest in someone's home and it's their child so it's up to them.

A newborn's vision isn't completely developed yet at birth. A baby's sensitivity is more than ours because their bodies are so little; a bright light or a loud noise may seem brighter or noisier to them than it would to us or to an older child. For that reason I probably would not use direct flash because I wouldn't wanted to cause unnecessary discomfort to a baby.

I would not use some of the positioning and wrapping that is shown in some baby photography websites as some do not seem to be appropriate ways to position an infant. The head neck and trunk should be aligned and supported properly. If you use swaddling the blanket needs to be loose enough so it doesn't restrict the baby's leg movement. (If you're going to try it, look up how to swaddle a baby properly; I can post a couple of websites/videos.) It may be best to have the parents hold and handle and position the baby while you take the photos.
Sharon
Photo Comments
,
9 years 6 months ago #406317 by Stacy Craig
:goodpost:
Photo Comments
,
9 years 6 months ago #406456 by garyrhook
*sigh* It's difficult to battle ignorance.

Use a reflector at least, but preferably a softbox. Then state, this is what you do and how you work. Perhaps she would be happier with another photographer.

You will find that most photographers get to the point where they say, "this is how I work, and what I do. It's not open to discussion."

As for the flash, the eyes are fully developed at birth; that's why they're so large. The don't grow any more. They are neither more nor less sensitive that anyone else's eyes.
Photo Comments
,
9 years 6 months ago #406494 by digitalpimp
:agree:   Most of these statements that sprout up are from non professionals who don't know any better.  lol  Urban theories.   
Photo Comments
,
9 years 6 months ago #406535 by Hoss
Just bounce the light or use a softbox
Photo Comments
,
9 years 6 months ago #406548 by Stacy Merrow
Again thank you all for the comments and advice.  
Photo Comments
,
9 years 6 months ago #406563 by Stealthy Ninja

Joves wrote: I will put it this way, I was the first child in 1958, so there were a bagillion photos of me taken with way harsher flash than we use now. I was not the blind kid on the block, so you have your answer. :P


img\def



:blink:

img\def
img\def

www.aevansphoto.com
,
9 years 6 months ago #407757 by Stacy Merrow
Oh that's funny :rofl:
Photo Comments
,
9 years 6 months ago #407787 by icepics
Babies' vision and the distance they can see well is not yet completely developed at birth. And their bodies have a different level of sensitivity/tolerance than ours - that's why things like for example, lead poisoning comes to mind, it can cause damage and delays in development to a baby or toddler; but if we ingested the same amount of lead it most likely wouldn't be that harmful to us. 

There's a difference between family members taking pictures with a p&s on camera flash and the equipment you might be using during what seem to often be lengthy sessions; I don't think it's the flash so much as how you intend to use it. It may not be harmful and you can show or explain what you'd like to do but it's up to them - someone coming in with a camera cannot insist on doing something with their child if the parent says no. 

You'd need to either refer them to finding another photographer or do the session without using a flash. You can't always accommodate everyone's requests and may need to set guidelines but if you state that you need to use a flash and they don't want that then they'll need to find another photographer.
Sharon
Photo Comments
,
9 years 6 months ago #408032 by Rob Cline
Good post  :agree: 
Photo Comments
,

  1. Forum
  2. General Discussion | Introductions | Off Topic Forum
  3. Photography General Discussion
  4. Can babies be blinded by a camera flash?

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Show Me...

Visit 4wdtlak Forum
Saal

Latest Reviews

Canon EOS R100 Review

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024
Nikon Zfc Review

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024
Canon EOS R50 Review

The Canon EOS R50 is one of the newest R-system cameras from Canon. Is it worth your money? Find out all the details you need to know in this comprehensive review.

Apr 10, 2024
Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II Review

The Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II is Sony’s flagship mirrorless zoom lens. As such, it’s loaded with features and has a top-shelf build quality that makes it a top pick!

Mar 27, 2024
More Articles
Get 600+ Pro photo lessons for $1

Forum Top Posters

Sponsored Imageimages/stories/vendors/sony.pngSponsored Imageimages2/50off.jpg
Sponsored ImageSponsored Image

Latest Articles

Guiding the Eye: Mastering Leading Lines in Photography

Using leading lines in photography helps improve the composition by drawing viewers in and leading their eye from the foreground to the background. Explore some fine examples of this in this guide!

Apr 24, 2024
Must-Have Insta360 Accessories

The Insta360 has one of the best lineups of action cams and 360-degree cameras. With these Insta360 accessories, you can elevate your photography and videography game!

Apr 24, 2024
5 Keys for More Impactful Photos of Landscapes

Creating impactful photos of landscapes depends on many factors, not the least of which is your talent behind the lens. This guide explores other elements required for the best product.

Apr 23, 2024
Canon EOS R100 Review

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024
Expert Tips to Upgrade Your Camera Gear With Used Equipment

Are you ready to upgrade your camera? Before buying new, you might consider the value of purchasing used gear to save money.

Apr 18, 2024
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV vs Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a micro four thirds camera released in 2020. It’s an entry-level system along with the OM-D E-M5 Mark III. Use this guide to determine which one is best for you!

Apr 17, 2024
What is Blue Hour Photography?

Blue hour photography might not be as well known as golden hour photography, but it is every bit as good a time to create epic images of landscapes. Learn how in this quick tutorial!

Apr 17, 2024
Nikon Zfc Review

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024
More Articles