My son was born when I was 20 weeks pregnant. The only picture I have of him was after he died. Better that, than not having any picture at all. When the hospital told me that they'd take pictures of him, I thought it was a little weird, too. It was extremely hard to look at, at first. But I am forever thankful to them for this treasure. It's the only thing I have to remind me of what he looked like. I only wish I had a picture of me holding him.
I think that people back then were probably more comfortable with death. Infant, childhood, and maternal mortality, for one, was much much more common.
My wife and I lost a child too.
When it happened we purchased a "reminder statue". Just a little something I have sitting on a shelf. When I look at it I'm reminded that some day I will get to hold/know the baby I never knew. I thank Jesus that I know it'll be possible.
I didnt mean to be offensive with my "creepy" comment...while it is certainly a crude word to use I hope no one gets upset with it. Seeing as how this thread has gone...I'd erase it if I could.