By Does Flash Photography Blind Newborns?
Experts Debunk Viral Myth
Medical experts reassure parents amid rising concerns about flash photography and baby eyesight
A viral myth claiming that flash photography can damage the eyesight of newborns, credited to one Abubakar I. Ahmad, SNA Nephrology, has stirred worry among new parents in Nigeria.
Considering that we live in the age of constant photo sharing, AfrikTimes decided to fact check this information and found that medical experts and eye health organizations agree that there is no scientific evidence to support the claim.
Besides, after an extensive search, the medical expert credited with the assertion could not be found. And if he exists, it is worthy of note that nephrology is a medical field focused on kidney care, not eye care. Detailed information about his professional background or specific affiliation with “SNA Nephrology” is also not readily available.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), a trusted authority on eye health, taking pictures of babies, even with a flash, does not harm their eyesight. In fact, they emphasize that camera flashes can actually serve a medical purpose by highlighting eye abnormalities during routine photography through the “red-eye reflex.”
Why flash photography is safe for newborns
Extremely Brief Exposure: A camera flash lasts only a fraction of a second, far too short to cause any harm.
Comparable to Everyday Lighting: The intensity of a flash is not significantly brighter than natural daylight or indoor lighting, sources babies are regularly exposed to.
Naturally Resilient Retinas: Newborns’ retinas are capable of handling a range of light levels, including the brief burst from a flash.
Debunked by Specialists: Pediatric eye specialists around the world have discredited the myth, calling it an urban legend.
What the experts say
“It’s clear that flash cameras don’t damage babies’ eyes. If they did, we’d have an entire generation of blind babies, and of course, we don’t,” says Dr. Jeffrey Levenson, an ophthalmologist in Jacksonville.
Dr. David Hunter of Boston Children’s Hospital adds, “The brief exposure to light from a camera flash is not intense enough to cause damage.”
Similarly, Dr. Zena Lim, Medical Director at the Children’s Eye and ENT Centre, notes that even the bright lights used during eye exams, which are far more intense than a camera flash, do not pose harm to infants.
What parents should keep in mind
While flash photography is safe, it’s still wise to be mindful of a baby’s comfort:
Natural Light Is Ideal: Soft, natural light (like from a window) often produces better photos and is less likely to startle a sleepy baby.
Use Flash Wisely: If flash is necessary, use a diffuser or bounce the light off a surface to soften its effect.
Avoid Prolonged, Direct Bright Light: Whether from the sun or artificial sources, sustained exposure to very bright light can cause discomfort.
The bottom line
Parents can breathe easy. According to overwhelming expert consensus, taking photos of your newborn with a flash will not harm their eyes. The myth of camera flashes blinding babies has been thoroughly debunked by ophthalmologists and pediatric specialists.
Instead of fear, focus on creating safe, beautiful memories. Just aim for soft lighting and keep your baby comfortable.
Trust medical science, not viral myths, when it comes to your baby’s health.
