How to Have a Newborn Photo Session When Baby is Still on Oxygen

Welcoming a new baby into the world is a joyful and life-changing experience, but for some parents, their newborn may need additional medical support in the form of oxygen. If your baby is on oxygen, you might be wondering how to approach a newborn photo session, especially if you want to capture those precious first moments. Fortunately, there are a few ways to ensure that your baby’s needs are met while still getting beautiful, memorable photos. Every photo below was from sweet Atlas’s session. He had a few extra days in the NICU after he was born and was still on oxygen when he came in for his session. Below are the options to consider when planning a newborn photo session with a baby on oxygen.

1. If Baby Must Be on Oxygen at All Times: Keep the Tubes On During the Session

If your baby needs to be on oxygen 24/7, there’s no need to worry about altering the session too much. The most straightforward option is to do the session as usual, keeping the oxygen tubes on throughout the entire shoot.

Oxygen tubing can be a part of your baby’s story and journey, and capturing those first images with their oxygen support is both meaningful and authentic. The focus of the session will still be on your baby’s natural beauty, even with the medical equipment in place. Many parents find that these images hold deep emotional value, reminding them of the resilience and strength of their newborn.

Your photographer will work around the tubes to ensure they are positioned appropriately while still getting stunning, artistic shots of your little one. The focus remains on capturing the essence of your baby while respecting the need for oxygen support.

2. If Baby Can Go Without Oxygen for Short Periods of Time: Take Brief Breaks for Photos

For many babies on oxygen, they may be able to go without it for short bursts of time, making it easier to remove the oxygen just long enough to capture some beautiful photos. This is the most common scenario for babies in need of oxygen support.

In this case, your photographer will keep the oxygen tubes on during the session while posing your baby, ensuring your little one is comfortable and safe. When it’s time to take a photo, the oxygen can be briefly removed—usually for just a few minutes at a time—while the photographer captures the image. Once the photo is taken, the oxygen will be put back on immediately.

This method allows for more flexibility in terms of posing and styling, as the photographer can focus on getting shots without the medical equipment visible in the frame. However, the baby’s comfort and health come first, and frequent breaks will be taken to ensure the oxygen is reapplied as needed.

3. If Baby Can Go Without Oxygen for Longer Periods: Take Breaks as Needed

In some cases, babies on oxygen may be able to go without it for slightly longer periods. If your baby is in this situation, there may be an opportunity to remove the oxygen tubes when they first arrive at the studio, allowing for a more relaxed photo session in between breaks.

When this happens, you’ll still need to take frequent breaks to put the oxygen back on as recommended by your baby’s doctor. The photographer will plan the session to work around these intervals, capturing some stunning images while respecting your baby’s oxygen needs. Your baby’s comfort and safety will always be prioritized, and the shoot will be tailored to ensure they’re never without the oxygen for too long.

Important Considerations: Follow Your Doctor’s Recommendations

Whatever option you choose, it is essential to follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding your baby’s oxygen use during the session. Babies on oxygen often have unique needs, and your pediatrician will provide guidance on how long they can be without oxygen, how often they should take breaks, and when it’s appropriate to remove the oxygen for a photo.

Before scheduling your session, make sure to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that the photo session will not interfere with your baby’s medical care. It’s important to respect your baby’s limits and ensure that their health is always the top priority.

A newborn photo session with a baby on oxygen might look a little different than a typical shoot, but it doesn’t mean that it’s any less special. Whether your baby requires constant oxygen support, can go without it for short periods, or can tolerate slightly longer breaks, there are options available to ensure that you still capture these precious memories.

At the end of the day, the goal is to celebrate your baby’s unique journey, showcasing their beauty, strength, and the love you have for them. With careful planning, attention to detail, and consultation with your doctor, you can have a newborn session that highlights your baby’s first moments while honoring their medical needs.

If you are expecting a new baby or have put off a session due to baby being on oxygen and still want to capture those beautiful first moments of your baby’s life, contact me today to schedule your newborn session!

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