  A new method for measuring \ngr cross sections aiming at enhanced
signal-to-background ratio is presented. This new approach is based on the
combination of the pulse-height weighting technique with a total energy
detection system that features $\gamma$-ray imaging capability (i-TED). The
latter allows one to exploit Compton imaging techniques to discriminate between
true capture $\gamma$-rays arising from the sample under study and background
$\gamma$-rays coming from contaminant neutron (prompt or delayed) captures in
the surrounding environment. A general proof-of-concept detection system for
this application is presented in this article together with a description of
the imaging method and a conceptual demonstration based on Monte Carlo
simulations.
