I just have to share some awesome and exciting news with everyone. I have been accepted as a photographer to a very wonderful organization called Pictures of Hope. Many families don’t know that there are services like this out there so I’m hoping to spread the word…
The next few paragraphs are courtesy of Pictures of Hope.
What is the Pictures of Hope Foundation?
Pictures of Hope is a charitable organization of professional photographers who provide complimentary, documentary-style, photography sessions to babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and their families. The Pictures of Hope Foundation is comprised of photographers (many of whom are “NICU mothers” themselves) from across the United States and Canada who are dedicated to donating their time to a cause they believe in, and sharing the gift of photography with families in need.
Why Pictures of Hope?
Throughout pregnancy most parents don’t anticipate the possibility of their baby needing to stay in the NICU after birth. Whatever that reason may be, time spent in the NICU is often an unexpected journey for families, a journey full of overwhelming emotions…sadness, confusion, hope, celebration, and unfortunately, at times grief. Throughout this roller coaster of emotions, many parents do not consider the importance of documenting these precious moments in their lives nor do they think about how much they will truly cherish these images years down the road. In some cases, a little extra TLC from the NICU is needed to be sure the little one gets off to the best possible start, for these families on the road to well being, photographs are a wonderful reminder of just how far their little one has come, however, photographs also play a necessary and very important role in the healing process for other families. In the most heart breaking circumstances, photos may be the only tangible keepsakes some parents have of their precious little one. All Pictures of Hope participating photographers are dedicating to providing NICU families with invaluable images you will cherish forever, captured in a sensitive and caring manner.
What is the Pictures of Hope Foundation?
Pictures of Hope is a charitable organization of professional photographers who provide complimentary, documentary-style, photography sessions to babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and their families. The Pictures of Hope Foundation is comprised of photographers (many of whom are “NICU mothers” themselves) from across the United States and Canada who are dedicated to donating their time to a cause they believe in, and sharing the gift of photography with families in need.
Why Pictures of Hope?
Throughout pregnancy most parents don’t anticipate the possibility of their baby needing to stay in the NICU after birth. Whatever that reason may be, time spent in the NICU is often an unexpected journey for families, a journey full of overwhelming emotions…sadness, confusion, hope, celebration, and unfortunately, at times grief. Throughout this roller coaster of emotions, many parents do not consider the importance of documenting these precious moments in their lives nor do they think about how much they will truly cherish these images years down the road. In some cases, a little extra TLC from the NICU is needed to be sure the little one gets off to the best possible start, for these families on the road to well being, photographs are a wonderful reminder of just how far their little one has come, however, photographs also play a necessary and very important role in the healing process for other families. In the most heart breaking circumstances, photos may be the only tangible keepsakes some parents have of their precious little one. All Pictures of Hopeparticipating photographers are dedicating to providing NICU families with invaluable images you will cherish forever, captured in a sensitive and caring manner.
What is provided in a NICU session?
Families with a child in the NICU receive a complimentary photography session, using the available light in each room, and a complimentary set of 4×6 photographs from their session (approx. 25). Upon request, images can also be posted to a private online gallery to share with family and friends who are unable to visit. Sessions can take place immediately upon entering the NICU or parents may opt to wait until closer to their dismissal date. Sessions are entirely accommodated to the needs of the individual family. Sessions include individual images of the baby (including any attached wires/monitors, nothing will need to be disconnected), as well as relationship type images with mom and dad (if possible), captured with a more photo journalistic approach.
What is the cost?
There are no fees for our services. The session and set of 4×6 photographs from your session are entirely complimentary. Should you decide to place an additional order, you will receive AT LEAST 25% off your current photographer’s pricing, however you are under NO OBLIGATION to purchase any additional images.
How do I know if I qualify?
There are absolutely NO pre-qualifications or fees for the services provided by Pictures of Hope photographers (many of whom are ‘NICU mothers’ themselves). Any family with a child in the NICU qualifies for one complimentary session for the duration of their stay.
What if my baby has tubes and wires?
Most NICU babies do…..DO NOT let this discourage you from having a session! Our photographers will talk with you before the session and ask some questions about your situation. All sessions are individualized to the family’s needs. You can discuss with your photographer whether your baby can be moved, held, or “unhooked” for a small amount of time. If not, the photographer will work around your needs.
Please visit the Pictures of Hope website for more information and to find a photographer in your area. If you have a baby at the Rockyview Hospital, Foothills Hospital, or Peter Lougheed Hospital or areas surrounding Calgary you are welcome to call me. :)
