Following the birth of a stillborn baby, hospitals will often take photographs of the baby for the family. Often, the family is encouraged to take photographs of their child. If they are not able to take photos, sometimes a close family member or friend is asked to take the photos. Sometimes, things happen so quickly after a stillbirth that no thought is given to photographs. Parents often wish later on that photographs had been taken.

The appearance of stillborn babies can vary based on the length of time that has passed since the death of the baby, the fetal age and difficulty of delivery. The baby's skin may have begun to peel, a process called maceration, and the baby may have red lips. Sometimes parents feel unable to show the pictures of their stillborn baby because of his or her appearance, but may still desire to share his or her photograph. Regardless of the physical appearance, these photographs are very special to parents and are held very dear to their hearts.

Photos taken of the baby can often worry parents because they feel it will later bring back grief and sorrow. In time, this nervousness can be less significant and photos can be viewed again. The baby's features can be observed and compared to the likeness of certain family members. Photos can also be used to show siblings their brother or sister, at the time of death or when they are older.

With the help of a skillful artist, photographs of stillborn babies can be turned into a beautiful portrait to be displayed with the rest of the family members. Based on what is to be kept and softened in the photo, a hand drawn portrait gives the family an opportunity to share the memory of their baby for generations. For some, a softened version of the original photo is exactly what they need to see in their home in order to move forward in the healing process.

Photographs of the baby can be kept and turned into a beautiful memory album, and as time heals, their memory is not forgotten.