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How to capture 

handprints & foorprints

Babies, Children and Older Adults

Forever-With-You-by josanne mark_edited.png
Baby Playing Happily

capturing a new impression

using an existing impression

  • Use any non-toxic, skin-safe print kit in black or dark brown (see the recommended kits linked below).

  • Follow the instructions supplied with your kit.

  • Make sure the hand or foot is clean and dry.

  • Choose a moment when the person is calm and relaxed.

  • Ask another adult to assist where possible.

  • Press gently and evenly without sliding.

  • Lift the hand or foot directly away from the paper.

  • Capture several impressions so we can select the clearest.

  • See instructions for submission at the below.

Handprints/foorprints preserved on hospital records, keepsake cards or other documents may also be suitable.

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  • Send the clearest scan or photograph available.

  • Include the complete, uncropped page.

  • Take a second, closer image of the impression.

  • Do not trace, darken or digitally enhance it.

Note: Never force fingers or toes into position. Stop if the person becomes distressed or uncomfortable.

Note: Faded impressions may still contain enough detail. Send the best version you have for assessment.

Parent And Baby Feet

To submit:

Scan or photograph your impressions

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For a clear photograph:​

  • Place the page flat in bright, even light.

  • Hold your phone directly above the page.

  • Avoid flash, shadows and glare.

  • Check that the image is sharp and visible.

  • Submit the original image/s without filters or editing.​

​When placing your online order, upload your scan or photograph using the upload field provided on the product page.

capturing via a photograph

Young Hands Holding Old Hands

If an impression cannot be taken, a clear photograph may be suitable.

  • ​Use a plain white background (see tip below).

  • Photograph the palm or sole straight on.

  • Keep the camera parallel to the hand or foot.

  • Make sure the entire hand or foot is visible.

  • Use bright, even lighting.

  • Check that the outline and details are sharp and that there are no shaddows aroind the hand/foot.

  • Take several photographs and send the clearest originals.

  • The photograph may be digitally prepared and simplified so that it reproduces clearly on your chosen piece.

photographs we cannot use:

  • Side or angled views

  • Blurred or out-of-focus images

  • Photographs with cluttered backgrounds

  • Images where the hand or foot is partly hidden or cropped

  • Photographs with heavy shadows across the hand or foot

Tip for a white background: Cut a generous opening in a sizable sheet of white cardstock. For a hand, gently position it through the opening. For a foot, have the person sit or lie safely with their foot extending slightly beyond the edge of a bed or securely supported table. Position the cardstock behind it, then photograph the palm or sole straight on.

​When placing your online order, upload photograph/s using the upload field provided on the product page.

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