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Funeral Pictures?

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I always take my camera to funerals.  When they see me with my camera, I think it seems disrespectful or morbid to some people; but a few days later I get a phone call or card from someone who really appreciated the pictures and would like copies.  They weren't able to make it and are happy to see the goodbyes of a dear friend.  Or they were there, and are glad I captured these moments.  

My grandmother had a big family, and funerals were often the last time she'd seen everyone together, and she always came back with a stack of pictures; I grew up thinking that cameras and funerals were as natural together as a camera at any other event.  (As part of my dad's service to our country, he served a few summer tours at Arlington Cemetery, officiating at memorial services for men and women who've served our country.  Someone videotaped one of his services for the family and gave him a copy.  Talk about moving!  Read about the Arlington Ladies; just thinking about this makes me well up with emotion.)

Death is a part of life; even though it is a sad part, there are many beautiful moments in remembering a well-lived life.  Here are some of my favorite shots from funerals...


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Comments

  1. CandaceSeptember 12, 2013 at 5:23 PM

    Beautiful and very meaningful photos, Karen! I think funerals are as important as the resting places the departed occupy. Thank you for capturing so many wonderful photos!
    Take Care!

    ReplyDelete
  2. ThimbleannaSeptember 13, 2013 at 6:40 AM

    Wow Karen. I've always wondered why we don't have cameras at funerals. I've wanted to take mine a few times, but, as you say, people seem to think it's disrespectful. These photos are beautiful!

    (And on another note, I hope you and your family are safe -- been thinking about you this morning.)

    ReplyDelete
  3. Miss JeanSeptember 13, 2013 at 11:02 AM

    I was doing well until I saw the Dum Dum lolipop! Beautiful pictures.

    We are fine over here in Centennial and I hope (and pray) you are fine as well.

    ReplyDelete
  4. AnonymousOctober 2, 2013 at 2:34 AM

    I had an uncle that videoed my father's funeral and I was able to watch it later as I wasn't able to attend. At the time I think people felt it was cold, but for my uncle it was natural (he's a filmmaker by profession)... He understood the need to document the event and for that I was truly grateful.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Stephanie DNovember 29, 2013 at 11:45 PM

    I'm glad someone besides me thinks it's okay to take photos at funerals. I took one of my brother in his casket, as I hadn't seen him in over 20 years and wanted to look at him as long as I needed to, without anyone watching me. When I'd looked at it enough, a year or so later, I deleted it from my camera.

    I find your pictures very moving, Karen.

    ReplyDelete

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