Bereavement Photography: Healing Through Stillborn Loss in Metro Detroit

Oh mama, whatever brought you here—I want you to know, my heart is with you. There are truly no words for the depth of this pain.

Bereavement photography is a way to honor and remember a life that, though brief, was filled with love. And while it may not seem like it now, these photographs can become a gentle part of the healing journey.

Every life—no matter how short—deserves to be remembered with tenderness. Photography becomes one way to hold space for the love, the grief, and the sacred connection that remains.

Just like birth photography and doula work, this is sacred. It is a privilege and responsibility to bear witness to these moments with compassion and reverence.

As a birth photographer and doula in training, I walk alongside families through some of life’s most intimate and transformational moments. What many don’t know is that before I stepped into this sacred work, I studied Mortuary Science at Wayne State University—a path that deeply shaped my understanding of death, grief, and the quiet power of remembrance. I’ve also served as a volunteer photographer for Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep, an experience that has humbled me beyond words and taught me how profound and necessary these images can be. This work is not just professional—it is deeply personal.

What is Bereavement Photography?

Bereavement photography isn’t about focusing solely on the sorrow—it’s about honoring a love that endures. It’s a way to create lasting, heartfelt memories of a baby who was, and always will be, deeply cherished.

This is not a kind of session that just anyone with a camera can do. It takes a gentle spirit and a compassionate heart. This is deeply emotional work—intimate, sacred, and incredibly personal. I’ve found myself in tears more than once while documenting these moments, because they are so profoundly moving.

Photographers who offer this kind of care are attuned to the emotional needs of grieving families. They approach with sensitivity, follow the family’s lead, and hold space with grace and empathy.

Why Families Choose Bereavement Photography

Families choose bereavement photography for many reasons—some they can express, and others that simply come from an inner knowing that it’s the right thing to do in that moment.

It’s a way to acknowledge the life that was, to gently capture the first hello and the heartbreaking goodbye. Photography has long been a part of the healing process. And while this may seem like the most sorrowful kind of photography, it is often the most meaningful. A family may not feel ready to look at the images for months or even years—but when they do, it can mark the beginning of a new chapter in their healing journey.

When a family loses a child, they’re often left with empty arms and aching hearts. Photographs become something to hold onto—something tangible that preserves the memory and honors the love that will never fade.

What to Expect During a Session

During a bereavement session, you can expect a calm, quiet, and respectful presence. Photographers who offer this service are there to gently bear witness and hold space for your grief. While they may appear focused and professional, know that many of us carry deep empathy and emotion as we document these sacred moments—we simply choose to be a steady and grounding presence for you.

Sessions most often take place at the hospital where you gave birth, typically within hours of your baby’s arrival. Many hospitals partner with organizations like Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep or are familiar with local photographers who offer bereavement services.

There is no formal posing in bereavement photography. In many ways, it mirrors a Fresh 48 session—natural, tender, and full of detail. We will gently document your baby’s features: their tiny toes, delicate fingers, sweet face, hands wrapped around yours. We’ll also capture quiet moments between you, your partner, and your baby—whether that’s skin-to-skin time, kisses, cuddles, or simply being together.

If you have any special blankets, keepsakes, or outfits you’d like included, they can be part of the session. And if siblings or other close family are present and wish to be involved, they are welcome, too.

Your photographer will work at your pace, offering breaks whenever needed. It’s okay to ask for space or to pause the session—we are here to support, not rush. Communication is key, and we will follow your lead every step of the way. 

If you’re working with a photographer from Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep, they are required to deliver a gallery of images exclusively in black and white.

When you work with a photographer like myself, however, you’ll receive a gallery with both black and white and color images. While black and white offers a certain stillness and reverence, I believe some details—like the warmth of a parent’s skin or the soft blush of a baby’s lips—are beautifully remembered in color.

How to Arrange a Session

For many families seeking this service, Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep is a beautiful, nationally recognized organization that offers free bereavement photography through trained volunteer photographers. Your hospital, birth center, or care provider can often help connect you with them.

At this time, I offer bereavement photography within the Metro Detroit area on a sliding scale of $300–$600. Though I hope with all my heart it’s never needed, I am honored to serve families during this tender time. There are also other compassionate photographers in our community who may offer this service for free or at a reduced cost, depending on their availability.

While the generosity of those who volunteer their time is deeply appreciated, this type of service is not always guaranteed or accessible. In some cases, you may need to consider hiring a photographer.

Please know—many of us in this space wish we could offer this work freely to every family in need. No one should ever have to experience this kind of loss, let alone navigate the financial burden that can come with it. Still, it’s important to acknowledge that this is emotionally demanding work, requiring time away from our own families, use of professional equipment, and a heart full of empathy. When a fee is involved, it’s not about profit—it’s about sustainability and care for all involved. 

Local Support and Resources (see next section)

Closing Words

Sweet mama, my heart is wrapped around yours. I hope this guide has offered a bit of clarity and comfort as you navigate this tender space.

Every baby—yours included—is worthy of being remembered with grace, beauty, and love. Your memories matter. Your baby’s story deserves to be honored and held through the quiet, powerful art of bereavement photography.

If you feel called to learn more or are in need of compassionate bereavement photography in the Metro Detroit area, I invite you to connect with me.

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Bereavement & Infant Loss Resources in Metro Detroit

Photography Support

• Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep (NILMDTS)
  • https://www.nowilaymedowntosleep.org
  • Offers free remembrance photography by trained volunteers.
  • You can also consider volunteering or partnering with them.

Local Support Groups & Counseling

• Remembering Cherubs (Metro Detroit)
  • https://www.rememberingcherubs.org/about
  • Provides emotional support, remembrance events, and resources for families grieving the loss of a baby due to miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant death.
• Metro Detroit Share (Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support)
  • https://www.metrodetroitshare.org/about-us.html
  • Provides emotional support, resources, and remembrance events for families who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss.
• SandCastles Grief Support Program (Metro Detroit)
  • https://aboutsandcastles.org/about/our-mission/
  • Offers grief support for children and families who have experienced the death of a loved one, including sibling and infant loss.
• Angela Hospice – Grief Support Services (Livonia)
  • https://angelahospice.org
  • Offers support groups for perinatal and child loss.
• Metro Detroit Share (Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support)
  • https://nationalshare.org/
  • Local chapter of a national support organization.
• Ele’s Place – Ann Arbor & Lansing (serves families in Metro Detroit)
  • https://www.elesplace.org
  • Grief support programs for children and teens who have lost a sibling.

Funeral & Memorial Services

• Verheyden Funeral Home – Baby & Infant Services
  • https://www.verheyden.org/
  • Known for their gentle handling of infant and stillborn memorials.
• The Tears Foundation (Michigan Chapter)
  • https://thetearsfoundation.org
  • Offers financial assistance for burial and memorial services.