A documentary practice centred on presence, connection, and the quiet moments that shape how we remember.
Saying goodbye to someone we love is a deeply personal and often overwhelming experience. In the midst of grief and uncertainty, moments of connection can pass quietly and quickly.
End-of-life photography is part of my documentary practice, focused on gently preserving those moments as they naturally unfold. I work unobtrusively, documenting presence, connection, and time shared together with honesty and care.
My name is Corinna Adams, and I am a photographer based in Albury/Wodonga.
This work grew from personal grief after the sudden loss of my father following a short illness. It was only later that I realised how few photographs I had of him, and how much those images mattered once he was gone. The last photo we have together is rushed and out of focus, taken shortly before he was admitted to hospital. He passed away three days later.
That experience changed the way I understand photographs and the role they can hold within memory and loss.
Every family and every experience is different, which is why sessions are guided gently by the needs, comfort, and circumstances of those involved. Sessions can take place at home, in hospice, outdoors, or anywhere your loved one feels most at ease.
I don’t direct or stage moments. My role is simply to observe quietly and document the connections, emotions, and time shared together as honestly as possible.
Frequently asked questions
Are End-of-life sessions limited to people?
No, these sessions aren’t limited to people, for many of us, pets are family too. I also offer end-of-life photography sessions for your furry friends
Do all family members need to consent to an end-of-life photography session?
Due to the intimate and sensitive nature of this type of photography session, everyone has to be on board. I need to be welcomed into your world during this time, so everyone’s views are respected, if any family members don’t consent to my being there, I won’t overstep their wishes and we won’t organise professional photos to be taken. If this is the case, I encourage you to take the time to capture these moments, yourself, where possible.
Do you use flash photography during end-of-life sessions?
I don’t have to use a flashing light, like a camera flash, but to ensure I capture the best possible images, I’ll need to enhance the lighting in the room by opening any nearby curtains or turning on any available ambient room lighting. While flash can sometimes help achieve clearer images in low-light environments, I aim to keep the atmosphere as calm and comfortable as possible by using natural and ambient light wherever I can.
What if we need privacy or a break during the session?
Essentially, you and your family are in charge. If it’s becoming upsetting for me to be there, then I will leave, if you or your loved ones need a few minutes, then I will step out or put my camera down for that time.
Do you pose or direct people during a session?
I won’t ever rush the session and I don’t direct or pose people.
How do you approach end-of-life photography sessions?
I am not with you to cause additional stress, amplify your levels of grief, or get in the way. I’m there to capture the moments before they’re gone, so you can be present with your loved one.
What style of photography do you use for end-of-life sessions?
This type of photography session is done in a documentary style. I will take candid photos of the connections and emotions in the room. I capture details like holding hands, soft kisses and hugs, smiles and tears.
Can we request specific moments or images during the session?
If you would like something special photographed, feel free to let me know and I will endeavour to capture that moment as well.
Why do you use black and white photography?
Black and white photos are often more emotive. By removing colour from the moment, we remove the distraction of clashing tones from clothing and surroundings, allowing the focus to remain on the emotion and connection being captured.
When is the best time to book an end-of-life photography session?
If you’ve had the often difficult conversation with medical professionals about a family member’s declining health and approaching end of life, the sooner we can capture them on film, the more likely the images will be remembered as “how you’ve always known them” rather than “just their last moments with us.”
Is it ever too late to book an end-of-life photography session?
All memories, up to their very last breath, are precious, and it’s never too late to record these special moments.
Can we choose the location for our session?
Of course! If your loved one is mobile and enjoys going to the park, we can choose their favourite one.
Where can end-of-life photography sessions take place?
If getting out and about isn’t comfortable or possible, I can visit them at their bedside, at home, or in hospice. I won’t ever rush the session and I don’t direct or pose people, so I encourage choosing a location where they are most at ease.
Why do you ask any questions before a session?
I don’t need to know any medical details that you do not wish to disclose. That said, I do have a few key questions I like to ask before each session so that I am fully aware of the kind of situation I’ll be stepping into. Not only does this prepare me mentally to be there with you during this time, but it also allows me to bring the right equipment to best capture your memories.
