The Funeral Photographer

The Funeral Photographer Beachlands based photographer specialising in the bereavement industry. People in disbelieve often ask me, why Funeral Photography? But I had to.

Here’s my answer, my motivation why, my story... My journey as a photographer started age 9 when I got gifted my first camera from my parents. From then on I was intrigued and fascinated by the art of photography. As my experience and confidence grew over the last 40 years, I’ve successfully dabbled with almost all genres of photography. But never in my wildest dreams did I ever imagine that my

passion for photography would lead me by choice, to do (and absolutely love)this specific kind of heartfelt photography... The art of capturing very raw personal moments of grief and deep sorrow in a respectful way, that would later transcend into stillness and (much later on) eventual healing. Never did I realise it then, that one day my own humble acts of photography would lead me to be able to share similar profound experiences to my own with others in grief, hadn’t it been for a chapter in my own life’s story... In May 2008 I lost my brother to a senseless quad bike accident. The very next morning my dad passed away from a heart attack. Not once in my life did I ever think I’d have to say my final goodbyes to them both on the very same day. My whole family had to. I remember the shock of it all left me feeling completely paralysed, as if life had become a silent black and white movie in which I had been completely overpowered by loss.. Words fail me to even begin to try and describe that week of my life, the day of the two services. And as a result, what my family had to endure in the months and years to come... But life has its own way of teaching us all strengths and insights in different ways, sometimes instantly, and at other times over months or even years...Neither of which we are ever quite fully prepared for... Life can only be understood in hindsight. In the very few days leading up to that unthinkable day of truth, to hire a photographer was the very last thing on my mind. In fact, thinking back on it now, I don’t think the thought crossed my mind at all. . One could even argue that even if it did, I would have come up with a good number of reasons not to do so. Hadn’t it been for a very good photographer friend of mine who unbeknownst to me, captured both funerals so beautifully and unobtrusively... Without her selfless act of photography and kindness in doing so that day, the deep and profound personal experiences that I would derive later on from looking back at those photos in the future, could’ve been lost on me forever so easily. I didn’t even notice or realise she was taking photographs that day. My whole being - gutted and drained just kept focussing on how to get my family through the day. Especially my mother...
But my insight only came much later. First came the grief. And I couldn't bring myself to even look at those photos. Through the act of looking at those photos again and again months after, that’s when I came to realise just how incredibly privileged and lucky I felt for having those precious images, and so grateful to my friend for her gift, talent and genuine kindness. Through her selfless act of photographing that difficult family day for us, those photos would later on help my family and I to remember all the love and care that surrounded us. Beautifully captured tender hugs of support between family and friends we had missed; gestures of endearment and images of soft laughter at the reception afterwards we weren’t able to see or hear... To name but a few things we got to look back on and remember. Long after that day finally ended... And it was in one of these moments of remembrance, that the realisation dawned upon me. If ever a more meaningful purpose existed for my photography; my love of capturing people, flowers or moments in time, this was it... And even though there will undoubtedly be people who will discourage you to consider a photographer at the service, I urge you not to make this mistake. To those who might call it funeral photos. I call it compassionate photography. Personally I do it to repay that kindness to family and friends. Professionally I do it as a calling. I’ve been doing it ever since...

26/07/2023

📸 Capture Lasting Memories at Your Loved One's Farewell 🕊️

Losing a cherished family member is never easy, and we understand that the pain of saying goodbye can be overwhelming. During these challenging moments, finding a way to preserve the precious memories of your loved one becomes invaluable.

Introducing our compassionate and professional funeral photography service – a thoughtful way to honor and remember your dear departed. Here's why having a photographer at a funeral is a great idea for your bereaved family:

1 - Unobtrusive Storytelling: Our experienced photographers know how to blend into the background, capturing candid moments and genuine emotions without causing any disruption. We'll discreetly document the heartfelt embraces, tender gestures, and shared stories, ensuring that the focus remains on the love and memories being shared.
2 - Preserve Moments of Love: Funerals are gatherings of love and remembrance, bringing together friends and family from near and far. Having a photographer ensures that these precious moments are frozen in time, preserving the love, support, and unity that surround you during this difficult period.
3 - Supporting Grieving Process: The grieving process is unique to each individual, and sometimes, the details of the ceremony might blur amidst the emotions. Our photography service helps provide a visual narrative of the day, serving as a therapeutic tool to reminisce and find comfort in the memories.
4 - Create a Tribute Album: Receive a beautifully curated tribute album that honors the life and legacy of your departed loved one. Share these cherished memories with future generations, allowing them to connect with their ancestors and understand the family's history.
5 - Thoughtful Gift for All Attendees: As friends and family come together to pay their respects, our photographers can capture moments with attendees who may not have their own cameras. Providing them with a memento to hold dear can offer solace during this challenging time.
6 - Focusing on What Matters: With our photographers handling the visual aspects, you and your family can concentrate on supporting each other and participating in the funeral service without the added worry of capturing essential moments.
We approach each event with utmost sensitivity and respect, understanding the significance of preserving these treasured memories. Let us be there for you during this time of grief, documenting the love, strength, and unity that shines through even in the darkest moments.

Reach out to us today to learn more about how our funeral photography service can be a meaningful addition to your loved one's farewell, helping you create a tribute that will be cherished for generations to come. 🌹

07/12/2022
29/11/2022

People often ask me in disbelief, why Funeral Photography?
To try and understand the question, different answers apply for different people, but for me? My story is my motivation
https://thefuneralphotographernz.myportfolio.com/my-story-1
I offer professional photography services that captures intimate, very personal and private moments respectfully, beautifully and compassionately.
I'm based in Beachlands, but I regularly do photoshoots all over Auckland.
I support grieving families with an unobtrusive photography service for the following:
• Living Funerals
• Funerals
• Memorial Services
• Pets & Animals Services
• Internment of Ashes
• Rites of Passage
You or your celebrant is welcome to contact or email me to discuss your photography requests at your family service. A lot of people also gift my service to family members or friends in their time of grief. Please ask them in advance before you proceed with the booking?
M - +64 21 209 3474
E - [email protected]

Every household has said goodbye to its furry companions - cats, dogs, birds even sometimes mice. Each of whom became mu...
24/11/2022

Every household has said goodbye to its furry companions - cats, dogs, birds even sometimes mice. Each of whom became much loved members of the family. The loss of a pet is so heart breaking. We miss their company, the everyday rituals, their ridiculously enthusiastic greetings, and their playtime, just their unique presence in our lives. And then when a friend, relative or somebody close to you loses a furry companion, you almost don't know what to say.

However, comforting words can be just as helpful as time, ice cream, and ugly crying when grieving the loss of a pet.

When someone loses a pet, here are some ways to comfort them:

• You could say something. Give them a heartfelt handwritten note, a short tribute on social media or a text message to let them know you're thinking of them. It depends on how close you are to the person, how devastated they are, or how well you knew the pet.

• You could reassure them. The loss of a pet often makes you wonder if everything you could have done to keep them safe and comfortable was done for them. Remind your friend they gave their pet a wonderful life.

• Give them time. The loss of a pet affects everyone differently. Try not to ask questions like, “Will you get another dog? ” Do you feel like replacing Snowball by getting another cat soon?” Be kind and understanding.

• Share memories. You might have photos of your friend's pet that you can pass along. Let them tell stories about their time together or talk about what they enjoyed most.

Let them know that you are there for them in their time of grief; and lastly, avoid comparing their mourning to your own experience (as it may feel like you are minimising their loss)

-------------------------------------------------------

I offer professional photography services that captures intimate, very personal and private moments respectfully, beautifully and compassionately.
I'm based in Beachlands, but I regularly do photoshoots all over Auckland.
I support grieving families with unobtrusive photography services for the following:
• Living Funerals
• Funerals
• Memorial Services
• Pets & Animals Services
• Internment of Ashes
• Rites of Passage
You or your celebrant is welcome to contact or email me to discuss your photography requests at your family service. A lot of people also gift my service to family members or friends in their time of grief. Please ask them in advance before you proceed with the booking?
M - +64 21 209 3474
E - [email protected]

Grief is one of the hardest emotions we will ever experience, and everyone copes with it differently, at their own pace....
17/11/2022

Grief is one of the hardest emotions we will ever experience, and everyone copes with it differently, at their own pace. There are days when tears flow. Every now and then, there are lonely days... There are some days when we are comforted by memories. It is my hope that these words of comfort will ease your feelings of heartache or those of someone you care about.

Why do I photograph funerals? People often ask me in disbelief.
In order to understand the question, different answers apply to different people, but what about me? I am motivated by my story
https://thefuneralphotographernz.myportfolio.com/my-story-1
I offer professional photography services that captures intimate, very personal and private moments respectfully, beautifully and compassionately.
I'm based in Beachlands, but I regularly do photoshoots all over Auckland.
I support grieving families with unobtrusive photography services for the following:
• Living Funerals
• Funerals
• Memorial Services
• Pets & Animals Services
• Internment of Ashes
• Rites of Passage
You or your celebrant is welcome to contact or email me to discuss your photography requests at your family service. A lot of people also gift my service to family members or friends in their time of grief. Please ask them in advance before you proceed with the booking?
M - +64 21 209 3474
E - [email protected]

People often ask me in disbelief, why Funeral Photography?To try and understand the question, different answers apply fo...
09/11/2022

People often ask me in disbelief, why Funeral Photography?
To try and understand the question, different answers apply for different people, but for me? My story is my why I do this...
https://thefuneralphotographernz.myportfolio.com/my-story-1
I offer professional photography services that captures intimate, very personal and private moments respectfully, beautifully and compassionately.
I'm based in Beachlands, but I regularly do photoshoots all over Auckland.
I support grieving families with an unobtrusive photography service for the following:
• Living Funerals
• Funerals
• Memorial Services
• Pets & Animals Services
• Internment of Ashes
• Rites of Passage
You or your celebrant is welcome to contact or email me to discuss your photography requests at your family service. A lot of people also gift my service to family members or friends in their time of grief. Please ask them in advance before you proceed with the booking?
M - +64 21 209 3474
E - [email protected]

The Funeral Photographer offers professional photography services that captures intimate, very personal and private mome...
25/10/2022

The Funeral Photographer offers professional photography services that captures intimate, very personal and private moments respectfully, beautifully and compassionately.
Although I am based in Beachlands, I regularly do photoshoots all over Auckland.
I support grieving families with an unobtrusive photography service for the following:
• Living Funerals
• Funerals
• Memorial Services
• Pets & Animals Services
• Internment of Ashes
• Rites of Passage
You're welcome to contact or email me. A lot of people also gift my service to family members or friends in their time of grief.
M - 021 209 3474
E - [email protected]

The Funeral Photographer offers professional photography services that captures intimate, very personal and private mome...
25/10/2022

The Funeral Photographer offers professional photography services that captures intimate, very personal and private moments respectfully, beautifully and compassionately.
Although I am based in Beachlands, I regularly do photoshoots all over Auckland.
I support grieving families with an unobtrusive photography service for the following:
• Living Funerals
• Funerals
• Memorial Services
• Pets & Animals Services
• Internment of Ashes
• Rites of Passage
You're welcome to contact or email me. A lot of people also gift my service to family members or friends in their time of grief.
M - 021 209 3474
E - [email protected]

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Beachlands
Auckland

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+64212093474

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