Protecting Your Baby’s Image – Hidden Dangers of Internet File Sharing

The arrival of a healthy newborn is a blessing recognized the world over.  Across the globe the birth of a child ushers in all manner of celebration from very festive events to simple respite where mother, father and child bond during a modest period of seclusion.

Soon thereafter, parents elect to share their joy with extended family and friends, usually sending photographs by the most expedient means—the internet.

Given the undeniable ease and affordability that this manner of sharing brings to our finger tips, it is understandable how this manner of sending photos to acquaintances has become so popularized. However, there are some extremely important facts that must be reviewed before transmitting photographs of children or posting them on social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter (via Twitpic), MySpace and others.

Consider the origin of the photograph.  Parents often choose professional studio sessions for baby’s first photos.  These usually produce quality images of junior’s first smiles or punkin embracing her favorite cuddle toy.  It is important that backdrops are void of any identifying details.  There should be no information within the actual frame that can be used to trace and locate the subject(s) of the sitting.

If a professional photographer is used it is important to understand contractual agreements and ensure that your privacy concerns will be met.  In most instances, you purchase prints only from a studio while the image itself is owned by the photographer or her firm.  You’ll be justly thrilled to hear just how cute your child is but can be equally mortified to discover that your child’s image was sold to a marketing campaign without your prior knowledge or authorization. Read the fine print and avoid misunderstandings and irrevocable activity that may expose your child to security threat.

In order to exercise greater control over images of your child, consider taking those first photos yourself in a private setting.  Start with an easy to use digital camera. Your choice does not need to be expensive or loaded with features, but unless you will be using computer software that permits image manipulation, then your camera should be equipped with internal settings that allow control of image size.  Generally, photographs intended for sharing over the internet should be small.  This not only aids in speeding up the online transmission process, it also prevents anyone from capturing the photo and enlarging it without significant distortion.

Photo size is essential for the following reasons.

1. Without getting overly technical, it is important to understand that an increase in pixel size translates to increased image clarity.  The clearer an image, the more it can be enlarged to produce detail that is otherwise non-discernable.   When put into the context of eliminating features that can lead to the identity of the infant(s) in a photograph—birthmarks as one example—the importance of preventing this occurrence becomes apparent.  Remember; always think in terms of your child’s safety first!

2.  Conversely, photographs intended for identification purposes only should be taken in a larger format or pixel size.  Parents know best of their child’s unique features and should work to capture them digitally as the child passes through their formative years.  A good practice is to maintain several high-quality images of a child’s facial features, capturing images of joy and melancholy if possible.  Ensure to capture features such as hairline, eyes, ears and nose profiles. Also, do not overlook any distinguishing features such as skin moles, birthmarks or any unique characteristics. Photos such as those described here should only be made available to law enforcement or private investigators in the event of a child’s disappearance, or the identify of a child must be established.

The birth of a child is a true blessing and perhaps one of the fondest memories that parents shall forever cherish.  You can help ensure that the environment to which your newborn develops remains safe, by guarding your baby’s image with an understanding of the hidden dangers that accompany internet file sharing.

Defensive Countermeasures offers workshops for parents and childcare health providers that are geared toward developing a safe and secure environment for baby to grow.  Contact us for more information.  Stay Safe!