Funerals?

Prompted by Vic's query on christenings I wonder if anyone has ever been asked to be a funeral photographer?

Although to some it will seem macabre, on the other hand we have an event where people meet up from all over the world who may not meet again for a long time if at all.

I've never been asked to do this, has anyone?

Yes, I was asked a couple of years ago for that reason, although it was a family member that had deceased, it was really odd and I kept a distance and caught groups / individuals with a 70 / 200 F2.8.

The family did want each and every bouquet photographed

I've also been asked to photograph all of the wreaths/bouquets on a couple of occasions.

Phil

I have asked an experienced friend to capture the event and have been to a few where it has been done, reasonably discretely.

It should only be done with the agreement of or at the request of the principal mourners / family. The family will be too emotional to remember who was there, what wreaths and tributes were sent and other details.

Don't hide away and don't get people to pose unless you are specifically requested to capture a certain group.

And look out for the odd shots such as the Vicar wearing jeans and trainers!

I have done this a couple of times but not very pleasant I must say, however all the people I shot it for took a while to watch the DVD slideshow I had put together. It's Very common in our Arican community.

In the early sixties a friend's husband died. She had photo taken of him in his coffin and sent it to his relations in Canada who were grateful for being informed and they sent a donation of $50 towards expenses.

Never taken shots at the actual funeral, but have captured the long lost relatives and friends at the wake afterwards, for the reason John suggested.

I've been asked to do a couple, by the funeral directors though and not family.

A Still Life

I haven't done one, but attended a funeral where they employed a professional, who specialises in funerals. She was very good. Very discrete, and captured the day beautifully. I know her photos have been a great comfort to the family.

Although there needs to be a large dose of respect and reverence, I'm surprised it's not more common.

An interesting topic.
I have been involved with funerary photography for just over a year. I have received very mixed reactions from funeral directors. There is a lot to consider, not only the family, but the venue of the service. I have had problems with one crematorium, and another crematorium owned by a large company have told me an absolute "no" to any photography within its' grounds-irrespective of the family's wishes.

It is still in its' infancy in this country, but we're getting there.
Malcombe

I hate funerals , been to too many recently and another is imminent

I hate wedding photography but would possibly find shooting a funeral easier and enjoy a wedding far more

Might that make it as irony :

But if you are invited to the bun fight or wedding reception the money you save on food can go into the Lens & Camera Upgrade Fund It's an Ill Wind etc.

I thought Weddings were a sort of Funeral