Placenta Photos: A Practical Guide for New Parents

Seeing the placenta after birth can feel like a special part of the whole experience. Many parents want to keep a photo as a memory, but they aren’t sure how to do it right. This guide walks you through the basics – from setting up the shot to sharing it safely – so you can capture the moment without any hassle.

Getting the Right Shot

First things first, you need a clean, well‑lit space. Natural light from a window works best because it shows the true colors without harsh shadows. If you’re using a phone, tap the screen to focus on the placenta and adjust the exposure by sliding your finger up or down.

Keep the background simple. A plain white sheet or a clean towel makes the placenta stand out and avoids clutter. A close‑up shot is usually enough; you don’t need a wide angle. Hold the camera steady – a small tripod or even a stack of books can help prevent blur.

When it comes to composition, think about what you want to highlight. Some parents like to include a tiny piece of the umbilical cord or a hand holding the placenta for scale. Others prefer a clean, isolated image. Whatever you choose, make sure the focus stays sharp on the tissue itself.

Don’t forget about hygiene. Wash your hands before handling the placenta and use gloves if you feel more comfortable. A quick rinse with sterile water can remove excess blood and give a clearer picture.

Sharing Your Photos Safely

Before you upload anything, consider privacy. The placenta is a personal part of your birth story, so think about who you want to see it. Most parents share on private groups or with close family members rather than posting publicly.

If you decide to post online, use platforms that let you control who can view the image. Add a simple caption that explains why the photo matters to you – it adds context and makes the moment more meaningful.

Be aware of any platform’s policy on medical images. Some sites flag or remove photos that look too graphic. To avoid this, keep the image tasteful: no excessive blood, and focus on the texture rather than gore.

Finally, store the original files in a safe place. Back them up to a cloud service or an external drive so you don’t lose them. A good practice is to rename the file with the date and a short description, like "2025‑06‑15_placenta.jpg," so you can find it easily later.

Capturing placenta photos doesn’t have to be complicated. With a bit of light, a clean backdrop, and some common‑sense privacy steps, you’ll have a lasting reminder of one of the most unique parts of your birth story.