Does Studio Flash Photography Affect Newborn Babies?

The quick answer is: most probably studio flash does not affect a newborn’s eyes . There are studios across the world that photograph young children and newborns, and we have not seen any widespread adverse effects, so rest assured.

Having said that, you may be a cautious parent, and want to avoid using flash immediately after birth. Here are some guidelines that you can follow if you want to be cautious.

Guidelines For Newborn Photography Without Flash

If you’ve just had a baby, this question may cross your mind before taking your baby’s portrait at the studio.

If you must have your child photographed, but are hesitant to use flash despite the data at the links below, we have formulated some guidelines for you to minimize the risk. Using these guidelines, you can go ahead with taking beautiful portraits. Here are some Dos and Donts.

Do This While Photographing Newborn Children

• Avoid using Flash. Make sure you have reflected sunlight light coming in through large windows while taking pictures. It goes without saying that a good time to take the picture is during the day when the sun is bright.
• Use large apertures (i.e. smaller numbers) to let enough light in.
• Use faster ISO such as ISO 400-1600, but it would bring in more noise. Don’t worry too much about noise, though. You can get less noisy pictures by using slow ISO such as 100, but best taken when you have a tripod, and when the child is asleep.
• Use longer exposure (this is the shutter speed) while indoors. This is doable only when the child is asleep and not moving. The longer, the better for brightness, but very long shutter speeds are again … not good. Using a tripod is advised.
• Photograph them when they’re asleep. This is a good idea for multiple reasons. There will be less movement, and you can use slow exposures with low ISO. However, you may want to capture the beauty and expressions while they’re awake too.

A mix of various types of images, in different locations, moods, and lighting photographed as they grow, up will allow you to have a wide range of images for your memory.

Do Not Do This While Photographing Newborns

• Do not use flash in a dark room and while she is awake. I do not know whether it is harmful to the eye, but strong flash can be irriting to the eyes and I am sure the babies feel it too. If you absolutely must use flash, remember that a dark room increases the contrast, and the apparent intensity of the flash. If the newborn is asleep, their eyelids offer some additional protection.

Conclusion: Flash is Safe, But Play it Safe

There seems to be conclusive evidence that Flash is safe for babies. However, I would avoid it. After all the child’s well-being is more important than a photograph.

The easy way to do it is; you can tell the camera to turn off the flash, take photographs in a bright location, and buy yourself a tripod & a zoom lens. This will be less intimidating to the child and you will be guaranteed to get stunning pictures that will tell the story for life.

But one thing that I always have a problem with, is that I do not know how to command the baby to stay still, do you know how?

Happy Taking-Pictures.

Sipping on this hydrating drink could help improve your skin, digestion and more.

Coconut water has grown in popularity over the past few years, but this beverage dubbed “nature’s sports drink” has been around for centuries. Known for its slightly sweet and nutty flavor, this refreshing beverage is great on its own or used in smoothies and more.

Packed with electrolytes and flavor, coconut water is the clear liquid found inside young coconuts and has a slew of health benefits. It differs from coconut milk, which has a creamy white hue and incorporates the actual coconut flesh.

Here’s everything you need to know about the tropical drink, including nutrition facts and health benefits.

Coconut Water Health Benefits

1. Provides a slew of nutrients and electrolytes

Coconut water fits into both low calorie and low sugar diets since it only has about 45 calories per cup and around 11 grams of sugar. Plus, it’s naturally loaded with electrolytes including potassium, magnesium, phosphorus and more. Although nutrition facts can vary slightly based on where the coconut is sourced, as well as the maturity of the coconut, an average 8 ounce glass of coconut water has:

• Calories: 45
• Total Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 25mg
• Potassium: 470mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 11g
• Total Sugars: 11g
• Protein: 0g
• Calcium: 4% DV
• Magnesium: 4% DV
• Phosphorus: 2% DV

2. May aid post-workout recovery

Coconut water is abundant in several electrolytes including potassium, sodium and magnesium. If you’re working up a sweat, especially in the summer months when you may be sweating more, coconut water may prove to be very useful.

Chicago-based registered dietitian Maggie Michalczyk says that the electrolytes in coconut water can help to regulate fluid balance, prevent dehydration and even ensure proper muscle function. Of course, you’ll want to make sure you refuel with enough carbohydrates and protein post-workout as well.

3. May reduce blood pressure and stroke risk

Bananas are notorious for their high potassium counts, but just one cup of coconut water contains more potassium than a medium sized banana. Research suggests that potassium-rich diets can help support heart health by reducing blood pressure and even protecting against stroke. Complimenting coconut water with other potassium-rich foods in your diet is ideal when it comes to supporting a healthy heart.

4. May support good digestion

Coconut water contains magnesium, a mineral that helps to keep things moving and prevent constipation says Michalcyzk. Adequate hydration in general is important for helping regulate bowel movements as well.

5. May promote healthy skin

Lack of proper hydration can lead to dry, tight, and even flaky skin. Drinking coconut water can contribute to your daily hydration needs which promotes circulation and radiant skin. Certain varieties of coconut water are fortified with vitamin C which has a slew of antioxidant properties and naturally stimulates collagen synthesis, which can help keep your skin firm and youthful-looking.

6. May reduce added sugar intake

Skip the sugary juices and sodas and instead reach for coconut water when you’re in the mood for something other than water, says Michalczyk. Unlike sugar sweetened beverages, coconut water usually has little to no added sugar (in unflavored varieties). This makes it a great choice for diabetics or individuals looking to reduce their consumption of added sugar. Look for 100% coconut water not made from concentrate and opt for plain unflavored varieties for a no added sugar solution.

7. May help rehydrate when you’re sick

If you’re under the weather, the body can lose a tremendous amount of fluid from vomiting and diarrhea. Michalcyzk notes that coconut water can help with hydration status and balance electrolytes better than regular water in this scenario. Some brands even fortify their coconut water with vitamins C and D which can provide even better immune support.

8. May assist with weight management

Proper hydration is essential for nourishing every cell in the body and optimizing your metabolic rate. Many people mistake thirst for hunger, prompting them to overeat which can lead to weight gain. And even though coconut water has more calories than plain water, it is substantially lower in calories than other beverages like soda and juice. This simple swap can help you cut back on calories over the course of the week.

9. May help cure a hangover

If a little too much wine at happy hour left you feeling dehydrated and foggy the next day, Michalczyk offers a pro-tip to keep coconut water stocked in your fridge. She says it will help to replenish those electrolytes that drinking may have depleted and can be a great thirst quencher.

Are there any risks from drinking coconut water every day?

You may be wondering whether or not it is good to drink coconut water every day. For the general population, coconut water is generally considered safe to consume and provides a delicious source of natural electrolytes. But, there are a few exceptions to be aware of.

If you have renal failure, you’ll want to be careful with drinking coconut water as it is high in potassium. Although this nutrient is normally healthy for the body, when kidneys fail they can no longer remove excess potassium and monitoring your intake is important. Coconut water may provide an unexpected but major source of potassium if consumed regularly, resulting in hyperkalemia which indicates too much potassium in the blood.

Most tours to Antarctica depart from Tierra del Fuego, a province on the southernmost tip of Argentina (and South America). And Tierra del Fuego is often referred to as “the end of the world,” allowing travelers the pleasure of discovering a world unknown.

Before reaching the continent, ships will cross the infamous body of water — Drake Passage — where the Atlantic, Pacific and Southern oceans converge. Drake Passage is one of the great mysteries of the seas, and depending on who you ask, it is nicknamed the “Drake Lake” and “Drake Shake” for its temperamental waters.

But the gamble is worth it. Passengers are sure to spot a plethora of seabirds including albatross and petrel when crossing Drake Passage. There’s also a chance to see breaching whales and dolphins leaping through the air.

And that’s just the beginning of the journey. Following are some of the most popular destinations visited on a journey to Antarctica.

South Shetland Islands
Just above the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, the South Shetland Islands are among the first stops on any Antarctic cruise.

Deception Island is one of the few volcanic calderas in the world that large ships can sail into and anchor. Once docked at Port Foster, passengers can set foot on black-sand beaches and hike to Neptune’s Window for a spectacular aerial view. While there, travelers may also visit Whalers Bay, an old whaling research station that fur seals use as protection from the harsh, natural elements.

Another popular pit stop is Elephant Island, which gets its name from the elephant seals that roam its shores. Visitors can travel to Point Wild on the island’s northern coast, where they can learn about polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton and his crew of 22 men who survived there for four dark winter months, living under upturned lifeboats.

Antarctic Peninsula
Cruises to the white continent can take two directions: east and west. Along the western coast of the white continent, ships will navigate through open waters and narrow channels, offering myriad scenic views.

Paradise Bay is one of the most praised destinations in western Antarctica, aptly named for its unparalleled beauty. Steel-blue waters glisten in the daytime, perfectly reflecting ice-capped mountains. The bay also contains arches made of ice and glaciers, in addition to a lively population of penguins and seals.

Farther south, there are many unmissable moments along the western coast of Antarctica. Lemaire Channel, best known as “Kodak Alley,” is a narrow channel that showcases ice-capped mountains on both sides, making it one of the best places to take photographs and observe the view.

Meanwhile, several landing sites at Petermann Island and Pleneau Bay allow for up close and personal animal encounters with penguins and seabirds. Southern elephant seals also frequent Pleneau Island, though it’s best to appreciate them from a safe distance.

Weddell Sea
On the other hand, ships can opt to travel through the Antarctic Sound (the body of water that surrounds the northernmost tip of the Antarctic Peninsula), and, weather permitting, dive into the Weddell Sea on the eastern side of the peninsula. Immediately, clients will notice an increase in massive tabular icebergs there — which makes for thrilling navigation.

Noteworthy shore stops along this scenic stretch include Brown Buff, Hope Bay (and the Argentine research station “Esperanza”) and Paulet Island. Though travelers can see large colonies of penguins from all three locations, Brown Bluff is particularly mesmerizing.

Brown Bluff is an ice-capped tuya (flat-topped, steep-sided volcano) with reddish-brown cliffs. Adelie and gentoo penguins congregate at the base of Brown Bluff, and it is one of the best locations for setting foot on the white continent.

Snow Hill Island is another favorite among visitors, though it can be tricky to access due to harsh weather. If travelers make it to the shore, they can visit Nordenskiold House, a wooden hut (and Historic Monument) built by the Swedish Expedition team that explored the island in the early 1900s. Travelers will also witness emperor penguins on Snow Hill Island, in addition to killer whales, humpbacks, leopard seals and Weddell seals in the surrounding waters.

With thousands of islands, quiet rural mountainsides, and massive cities to explore, the Philippines travel tips is necessary. Planning your trip ahead of time will save you a lot of headaches, because there is a lot that you need to know before coming to the Philippines. A little research on travel tips for Philippines will go a long way, ensuring that you have a memorable and safe experience while reducing the risk for any unwanted and unexpected incidents.

Before you go, read up on these travel tips Philippines.

1. Visa

The very first thing you should do once you decide to come to the Philippines is to check if your passport requires you to obtain a visa. This is essential information and a visa must never be treated as an after thought. There are over 150 countries that do not require a visa to enter the Philippines for varying durations; for example, citizens of the European Union, United States, Australia, and members of the ASEAN (Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Brunei) are permitted to stay in the Philippines without a visa for 30 days. Check what your passport entitles you to, and once you have this taken cared of, you can proceed to planning the rest of your trip. If you intend on staying longer than 30 days, visas are generally easy to extend for a fee.

2. Medicine and toiletries

The largest cities of the Philippines, Manila and Cebu, have world-class hospitals and medical facilities. Drug store chains are easily found throughout the city, so if something should happen to you while traveling to these areas, you are in good hands.

Things are different in coastal towns and remote places; bringing your own medicine and personal effects is one of the top things to know for your trip. This is especially important if you have special health needs such as an inhaler for asthma, feminine products, or medicines that may not be available in the Philippines. The Mercury Drugstore and Watson’s chains are good one-stop shops while you’re in Manila, before heading off to more remote and beautiful destinations that the Philippines has to offer.

Another important thing to keep in mind is that it’s essential to always carry insect repellent wherever you go. Mosquitoes are present everywhere and aside from the obvious nuisances it brings, you’ll also want to avoid contracting dengue in the Philippines.

3. Hotel and flight arrangements

As a general rule of thumb, booking hotels and flights far in advance can result in substantial savings. The peak season in the Philippines runs from November to April, but the super peak seasons of Christmas and Holy Week means that hotels in top destinations (Manila, Cebu, Boracay, Bohol, Baguio, Palawan) oftentimes triple their rates.

If you intend to travel to top tourist destinations during super peak periods, booking as far ahead as possible will save you money. The use of online travel agency services such as Agoda, Expedia, Booking.com, and AirBnB all offer an excellent assortment of accommodations throughout the Philippines to suit all budgets. If you intend to stay for at least 2 weeks in one destination, AirBnB typically offers long-stay discounts.

4. Weather

November to May are the dry months of the Philippines, while the other parts of the year are more prone to thunderstorms and rainfall. However, weather in the Philippines is extremely unpredictable. It’s always hot and humid especially in beach areas, but be prepared for a chance of rainfall. You’ll also want to consider getting travel insurance for your trip – Philippine weather can be unpredictable, and the country is prone to getting battered by strong typhoons which can lead to canceled flights.

5. Culture and etiquette

The Philippines is a very tourist-friendly destination, and with the hospitality that the locals are known for, making friends is easy. But foreigners need to be cautious of communicating with Filipinos who are extremely proud of their local culture but may also be very sensitive when faced with the straightforwardness that is accepted in western culture. It is always appreciated to show basic courtesy such as by saying “please” and “thank you” (salamat in the local language) whenever possible, but most importantly – smile wherever you go!

Filipinos are a happy people, so when you see someone smile at you, don’t forget to smile back. Keep in mind the Filipino value of “pakikisama” which means “getting along”, often displayed by locals to tourists when you are invited to join them in partaking of a local drink or eating with them. Additionally, always have a sense of propriety and display good behavior at all times particularly when you come in contact with Filipina women and elders. On some occasions, foreign men may be greeted by “Hey, Joe!”, but don’t take it personally – it’s just the Filipinos’ way of being friendly and associating Caucasian men with the GI Joes from the American occupation.

6. Money

Before visiting, speak with your local bank to advise them that you’ll be using your ATM and/or credit card while traveling in the Philippines. This way, any transactions done will not be considered fraudulent, which may result in your card getting blocked in the middle of your trip. ATM machines that dispense cash in the local currency (Philippine pesos) are easily found in the top destinations of the Philippines. However, if you will be traveling to remote beaches and rural areas, don’t expect ATM machines to be as available so make sure that you take enough cash with you. It also helps to always have small change (coins and PhP 20, PhP 50, PhP 100 denominations) when traveling to remote areas so that you can easily pay for transportation via a motorbike or tricycle.

When it comes to budgeting, it will depend on your personal preferences and the activities you want to do. Food and drinks in big cities can rack up a serious bill, but one of the best things about traveling to the Philippines is that there is always a more affordable option available. Generally, budget travelers can do away with PhP 1,000 a day, mid-range travelers can spend between PhP 1,000-2,500 a day, and more for luxury travelers. It’s important to factor in the transportation involved for each day of travel, as well as the kind of food and drink you want to enjoy.

7. Tipping

It’s always practical advice to leave a tip of at least 10% if you are happy with food and services throughout the Philippines. Tipping is generally expected from tourists, especially in touristic areas and beach resorts. These are largely appreciated by service providers in the tourism industry in the Philippines since many of those employed in the industry earn minimum wage and it can make a significant difference in their life. Most restaurants and hotels already factor in a 10% service charge (printed as SC on your bill), which means that there is no longer a tip necessary but feel free to be generous especially if you had a very good experience. Some establishments may be stingy in distributing tips to staff, so if someone did a good job serving you or cutting your hair, make sure that the tip goes directly to the person who worked with you whenever you can.

8. Transportation

Metro Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is notorious for traffic. But travelers these days are luckier: the advent of on-demand ride sharing apps such as Uber and Grab have replaced taxis, although they’re still around. These apps provide a safer, more reliable, and hygienic transportation experience within city destinations (Manila and Cebu city). A short ride on one of these services can cost around PhP 100, but these prices can increase to as much as PhP 350 particularly during rush hour.

Private car services may be availed of; the starting rates are around PhP 3,000 with a driver for 8 hours although these rates may be negotiated. Jeepney rides only cost around PhP 10, but they high-risk modes of transport in the city because they are prone to pick-pockets.

In remote areas and provinces, it’s important that you understand that the forms of transport prior to travel especially in rural areas where ride-sharing apps and vehicles are not available.

Motorbikes (locally known as habal-habal) and tricycles are more common in remote areas, including Philippine beaches. They are the main mode of transportation here, and are generally safe; they cost PhP 20 and up for one way depending on the distance and the destination itself. Island-hopping tours are always done via outrigger boat in the Philippine islands; they can cost anywhere from PhP 300 up depending on the destination, and the attractions to be seen.

9. Safety

Generally speaking, the Philippines is as safe as other destinations within Southeast Asia. However, since Philippine President Duterte began office on June 30, 2016, the country has been considered unsafe especially in poor areas where the government’s efforts on the war on drugs continues to plague society. The war on drugs targets local drug syndicates and suspected drug pushers, so it’s still safe for tourists. There are no safety issues to be concerned about in tourist destinations such as Boracay, Cebu, Baguio, Palawan, and Bohol. Just be wary of pick-pockets during your travels and read up on the state of the country especially if you are travelling independently. Avoid the areas of Southwest Mindanao particularly in Zamboanga, locations which are at high risk for terrorist attacks.

10. Language

Next to Tagalog, the local language of the Philippines, English is the most widely spoken language. There are over 100 dialects spoken in the various provinces of the country, although getting around and communication shouldn’t be a problem especially in developed tourist destinations. Most service providers can speak at least a little English, and communication isn’t considered a problem at all.

11. Food

Taking care of the food and drink you consume is one of the most important tips for planning travel to the Philippines. Travelers with sensitive stomachs, or those who haven’t been exposed to other countries in Southeast Asia, may come down with a stomach bug if certain foods are eaten, especially street food which is popular throughout the country. Street food, although cheap and considered delicious by many foreigners, are not manufactured with the food standards in mind, which increases the risk for getting sick. If you have a sensitive stomach, make sure to always bring medications with you. Tap water is not potable, and instead of drinking service water ask for bottled water instead to minimize the risk for contracting food-borne illness.

All restaurants in the Philippines are required to undergo hygiene inspections and training, but international standards are not always enforced especially in small towns. It is best to use your judgment when deciding on what restaurant to eat in; look for those that appear clean and make sure your food is thoroughly cooked.

12. What to pack

Packing well is a must know Philippines tips. People in Manila and Cebu dress very well, given that these are large cities with a massive expat population. Hotels and restaurants have dress codes in these areas, and wearing shorts especially in high-end establishments may cause you to be rejected at the door. If you’re traveling to beaches and remote areas, the dress code is almost nonexistent; flip flops are common and light materials (cotton, linen) will keep you cool despite the heat.

Although many travelers commonly wear as little as possible, it’s best that women avoid wearing anything too revealing (plunging necklines, see-through material) since this can attract cat-callers and improper behavior from the opposite sex, local or otherwise.

Pack light if you can since laundry is easy and inexpensive throughout the country. Sarongs and pashminas are a versatile piece of clothing that can be used in the beach while keeping you cozy during long bus or plane rides. Cover up if visiting any of the Philippines’ churches, especially shoulders and legs.

Don’t forget the sunscreen: it can get very hot in the Philippines especially during the dry months.

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Traveling in the Philippines will bring about many pleasant surprises. It’s not uncommon for foreigners to never leave after their first stay, because it’s hard to resist the hospitality and warmth of the Filipino people. Keeping these travel tips in mind will ensure your trip is smooth sailing all the way.