Why Funeral Photography Matters: One Family’s Experience

  “When I was informed that there are people that take photos at a funeral, I thought, no way… at weddings, yes… but not at a funeral.”

This is a reaction we hear often, and it’s exactly how this family initially felt. Funeral photography can feel unfamiliar, even uncomfortable, at first. In moments of grief, it’s natural to question whether photographs belong at all.

Like many families, they considered asking someone they knew to take a few photos to simply remember parts of the day that can easily blur together.

  “I was going to ask someone to take some photos so that I could remember some things from the funeral like flowers, people etc.”

In the end, they chose a professional funeral photographer and looking back, they’re incredibly glad they did.

  “I am so glad that I didn’t ask anyone and I’m very happy that I’ve changed my mind because no one would have done such a wonderful job as you have.”

Funeral photography isn’t about staged moments or being intrusive. It’s about quietly observing, being present without being noticed, and capturing the atmosphere of the day as it naturally unfolds.

As this family shared, the photographs captured the full emotional weight of the farewell, not just the grief, but the meaning behind it.

  “You have captured the sadness, sorrow and the pain but also the beauty of the day.”

Grief has a way of distorting time. Even just a few months later, memories can already feel distant.

  “The day that was only about 3 months ago but it feels like it was years ago.”

Photographs can gently anchor those memories. They hold onto details that might otherwise fade, details that become increasingly important as time passes.

  “With time you forget many things, who was there, what was said etc., but pictures bring these memories back. Even though they bring the sadness and sorrow that will be with me for the rest of my life.”

Of course, those memories can be emotional to revisit. Photographs don’t erase the pain and they aren’t meant to. But they do provide something tangible to return to, something that keeps the memory alive.

For this family, the images have become more than just photos. They are a keepsake. A way to preserve the memory of John and the day that honoured his life.

  “The photos are a wonderful keepsake and keep memory of John and his funeral a bit ‘alive’ for a bit longer in my memory.”

We feel deeply honoured when families trust us during such an emotional time. Funeral photography isn’t for everyone - and that’s okay. But for those who choose it, it can offer comfort, clarity, and connection long after the day has passed.

Stories like this remind us why we do what we do - to preserve moments, memories, and meaning, with care, respect, and compassion.