How it Works

We understand that time in the NICU can be overwhelming. Our goal is to provide free, professional bedside photography sessions that offer families cherished memories during this unique and emotional journey. The process is simple, and we handle everything—so you can focus on your little one.

Step 1: Request a Session

📍 Who Can Request?
Any family with a baby in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is eligible for a free photography session.

📝 How to Request a Session:

  1. Fill out our session request form on the website.
  2. Please contact Erin at 614-951-9220 or eriniozzi@capturingcouragephotography.org with your request.

🎯 Things to Know:

  • Sessions are completely free for families.
  • We respect all hospital guidelines and medical needs.
  • If your baby is in a critical state, we will work to accommodate your schedule as quickly as possible.

Step 2: Your Photography Session

📅 What to Expect

  • Erin or a Capturing Courage volunteer photographer will meet you at the hospital and enter the NICU as your guest.
  • You will need to fill out a couple of forms giving permission for Capturing Courage to photograph your family.
  • Your session will take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, capturing your baby’s journey, milestones, and special moments.
  • We will follow all NICU safety protocols and work within the hospital’s guidelines to ensure a smooth experience.

🤱 Family Participation

  • Parents and siblings are welcome to be in the photos.
  • If you prefer a private session focused only on your baby, that’s okay too.

📌 Session Frequency
Currently, there is no limit on the number of sessions allowed per family. However, we kindly ask that you be respectful of the needs of other families and limit sessions to bi-monthly portraits and major milestones, such as:
✔️ First bottle feeding
✔️ NICU graduation (going home day)
✔️ First birthday

Step 3: Receive Your Photos

📩 Private Online Gallery

  • Within 2–3 weeks, you will receive a secure digital gallery with high-resolution images.
  • You can download, print, and share your images with loved ones.

💙 No Cost, No Strings Attached

  • Every session is 100% free, made possible by generous donors and volunteers.
  • Your images are yours to keep forever—no hidden fees or requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does my baby need to be a certain age or weight?
No. We provide photography sessions for all NICU babies, regardless of gestational age or condition.

Q: Is my hospital partnered with Capturing Courage?
We work with many hospitals and are expanding. If we’re not currently partnered with your NICU, contact us, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your request.

Q: What if my baby is in isolation or has medical restrictions?
Our photographers follow all hospital safety protocols. If photography isn’t permitted at the bedside, we can coordinate with your medical team to explore alternative options.

Ready to Capture Your Story?

Request a free NICU photography session today. Request a Session