Capturing the spirit of life and respecting the intimate nature of death through photography
“The biggest mistake is that you think you have time” buddha
Saying Goodbye to those closest to us is a very sensitive time that people often struggle to prepare for but knowing that you have photos of your loved ones to look back on can be comforting in such emotional times.
End-of-life photography is focused on preserving your family’s precious moments with your loved ones that can get lost in grief. I am honoured to be able to record the story of your loved one through photos that will be cherished for years to come.
My name is Corinna Adams and I am a photographer in Albury/Wodonga.
Heaven & Earth Photography was born out of grief. My father passed away suddenly after a short illness and it wasn’t until later that I realised I didn’t have many photos of him. The last photo I have of us is rushed and out of focus, taken just before he checked into the hospital. He passed just 3 days later.
I committed to offering end-of-life photography sessions so that other families could have the kinds of photos that I never thought to take.
Everyone’s journey is unique and for this reason, sessions are personalised to meet your needs and are held in a place of your choosing, depending on circumstances, ability and comfort. End-of-life sessions are delivered with compassion and understanding and are guided by you and your family.
Are your sessions just for people?
End-of-life sessions aren’t limited to people, for many of us, pets are family too. I offer end-of-life photography sessions for your furry friends.
What if one of my family members doesn’t want you to take photos?
Due to the intimate and sensitive nature of end-of-life photography sessions, everyone has to be on board. I need to be welcomed into your world during this time, so everyone’s views are respected, so 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.
Will your flash be going off constantly during our session?
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.
What do you mean by sessions are “guided by your family”?
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.
I won’t ever rush the session and I don’t direct or pose people.
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 kinds of photos do you take?
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.
If you would like something special photographed, feel free to let me know, and I will endeavour to photograph and capture that moment too.
Why are your photos black and white?
Black and white photos are often more emotive. By removing colour from the moment, we remove the distraction of any clashing colours, from the clothes people are wearing, so the photo remains focussed on the moment and emotions being captured.
When should I book our session?
If you’ve had the often difficult conversation about a family member’s declining health and their upcoming death with their medical professionals, the sooner we can capture them on film the more likely the images are to be looked back on after their passing as memories of ‘how you’ve always known them’ rather than ‘just their last moments with us’.
All memories, up to their very last breath are precious, and it’s never too late to record these special moments.
Where can we hold our session?
If your loved one is mobile and loves going to the park, chose their favourite one.
If getting out and about isn’t comfortable or possible we can visit them with you, at their bedside, at home or in hospice. I won’t ever rush the session and I don’t direct or pose people, so consider choosing a location where they are most at ease.
Do you need to know medical details about what is going on?
I don’t need to know any medical details that you do not wish to disclose.
However, I do have a few key questions I like to ask before each of my sessions 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 I will also be able to bring the right equipment to capture your memories.