Newborn photography should always centered around safety, but when photographing a baby with hip dysplasia, that responsibility becomes even more important. Babies diagnosed with hip dysplasia often are required to wear a Pavlik harness, which keeps their hips in a stable position for healthy development.
As a newborn photographer, it’s essential to understand how to adapt your session workflow to ensure the baby remains safe, supported, and comfortable all while still creating beautiful, meaningful images for their family.
Understanding Hip Dysplasia in Newborns
Hip dysplasia, also known as developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), occurs when a baby’s hip joint does not form properly. The joint is often shallow, this often results in the hip being dislocated and having to be put back into place after birth. Breech babies tend to have this occur more because of their positioning in the womb. Treatment often involves a Pavlik harness, which holds the baby’s legs in a natural “frog-like” or spread position to encourage proper joint development.
This positioning directly impacts how a baby can be safely posed during a newborn photography session.
Safety Is the Top Priority – ALWAYS
When working with babies but specifically babies with hip dysplasia, safety is so incredibly important.
The baby’s legs should never be forced together, intentionally straightened, or wrapped tightly together. Even when holding them you should be aware of how you are supporting them.
The Pavlik harness must remain on at all times unless parents have medical instructions otherwise. Every newborn is different and have different needs and requirements for the harness. Some newborns have to wear the harness 24/7, others can have a break during the day. Please consult with your client to see if their baby is allowed time out of the harness.
Some traditional newborn poses that require legs together, curled or tucked up may not be possible, and that’s okay! The session should be based on what poses are allowed and will be safe for baby. Professional, experienced newborn photographers should be able to prepare a workflow that will still deliver beautiful, timeless images while keeping baby’s hips stable and safe. Newborn sessions should always be baby led but even more so with newborns with any type of medical needs.
Always:
* Follow the baby’s natural positioning
* Avoid any pressure on the hips or legs – ensure hips are supported and stable
* Ensure the harness is not restricted or hidden in a way that compromises safety
* Communicate with parents what your plan is for the session for reassurance
Be sure to do research into the topic of newborn hip dysplasia prior to the session. This will give you more insights into what parents are dealing with and the medical aspects behind newborn hip dysplasia. It’s also a great way to connect with your clients and have conversations about the flow of the session.
Adjusting Your Posing Approach
Photographing a baby with hip dysplasia requires flexibility, creativity and sometimes some quick pivoting.
Before planning any poses be sure to ask parents any medical advice they were given regarding a newborn session and also to ask their pediatrician if baby is allowed tummy time. You can still possibly do some posed setups, but also try to explore more natural, relaxed poses. Babies in a Pavlik harness are already in a safe, developmentally supportive pose – use that to your advantage. You can have snug wrapping over arms but you will need to make sure any wrapping over the legs is loose and doesn’t put the harness in any position that wouldn’t be safe for baby.
If baby is allowed some tummy time, poses like chin on hands and modified side lying (with legs spread) can possibly be done for table posing if you are experienced with posing. You can add little extra touches to each setup to help fill your gallery. NEVER force a baby into a pose.
Safe posing ideas include:
* Wrapped poses that are loosely done that accommodate the harness and do not push legs up or together
* Parent shots, where baby is held by mom or dad or incorporating parents hands into setups
* Back-lying or modified lazy side-lying positions (legs must be spread to mimic harness position) with proper support
* Detail shots that capture tiny features and the uniqueness of this stage
Avoid any poses that require manipulation of the legs or hips like Froggy Pose or tight wrapping styles that bring the knees together or legs pushed up. Have a plan!! If a pose doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and move on.
Embracing the Harness as Part of the Story
Every baby has their own journey and story to tell. While some parents may initially feel unsure about including the harness in photos, many come to appreciate it as part of their baby’s journey.
The Pavlik harness tells a story of strength, care, and early intervention. Including it in images can create powerful, emotional photographs that families will cherish. Every baby has its own journey and it is our job to tell that story.
You can:
* Use soft wraps that work with the harness
* Style setups that draw attention to the baby and less focus on the harness
* Capture both covered and visible versions, if possible.
Always have a conversation with parents beforehand about their preferences.
Communication with Parents Is Key
Before the newborn session, take time to talk with the parents about their baby’s needs and any medical guidance they’ve received. Be sure to have them ask their pediatrician any other questions you might have in regards to safety, for example is tummy time is allowed.
Ask questions like:
* Are there any specific positioning restrictions from their doctor?
* Is the harness to remain on at all times? If not how long can they be out of it?
* Are there any comfort cues or sensitivities to be aware of?
Clear communication sets you apart – it builds trust with your clients and ensures that everyone feels confident going into the session.
Creating a Comfortable Environment
Babies with hip dysplasia benefit from the same calming environment as any other newborn session. When taken out of their harness (if allowed) they like to stretch and squish and thats ok! It helps them to settle and feel comfortable.
As always – Keep the room warm, allow extra time for feeding and soothing, and move slowly and methodically between setups. These sessions may take a bit longer bc of dealing with harness – taking it off (if allowed) and putting it back, posing with the harness, etc. and that’s ok!
Patience is key during ANY newborn session.
A Gentle Reminder: Every Baby Is Different
As newborn photographers we should know that no two newborn sessions are ever the same, and that’s especially true when working with babies who have specific medical needs.
Your flexibility, knowledge, and calm presence will make all the difference. Sometimes the most meaningful images come from the simplest moments – when the baby is comfortable, supported, and at ease.
Final Thoughts: Safety, Sensitivity, and Storytelling
Photographing a newborn with hip dysplasia is an opportunity to provide families with images that go far beyond aesthetics. These sessions capture resilience, love, and a chapter of their story that deserves to be remembered. Some parents might be hesitant to move forward with a session but with communication, knowledge and experience we can make this an amazing experience for them.
By prioritizing safety, adapting your posing techniques, and approaching each session with care and compassion, you can create images that are not only beautiful but deeply meaningful.
