Ethical Question...

[Geoff]

To take some photos at a funeral or not? I am thinking on the 'not' side of things as it's a sad occasion but would value our members thoughts and opinions on this. My father in-law to be passed away a few days ago, the funeral is on Monday...I think I should just participate as a very sad (but new) member of the family. Your thoughts?

Geoff

[Greg B]

I said no Geoff, not because I think there is an ethical problem, but more that it might give a negative impression to your soon to be family-in-law. You might always be remembered for it.

[Nnnnsic]

I probably wouldn't.

While you are recording a moment / event in time, I'd think that you'd want to remember the person through pictures of them when they were alive... I highly doubt you'd go through the images you shot of the funeral ever again.

It's not like a wedding where you go through the pictures and relive them...

[Geoff]

This is what I was thinking too, thought it was an interesting question tho! THanks guys,

Geoff.

[birddog114]

This is what I was thinking too, thought it was an interesting question tho! THanks guys,

Geoff.

Need help, just tell me where and what time and I'll be there do the shooting for you, I shot so many funerals for friends so I knew what I am doing.

[Glen]

I wouldn't. Maybe at the wake, but not as close as you are. Maybe at the wake of a mates father, for instance

[xerubus]

It's a thought that has crossed my mind a couple of times now... however I have said no as it is a family member and someone close to your loved one....

i'm a big believer in the respect of lost ones ....

cheers

[Glen]

Geoff, that is a very generous offer by Birddog if you think the occasion should be recorded.


Birddog, you never fail to amaze me with your generosity

[birddog114]

I have done many funerals and no shy, willing to do again if someone needs, honestly, if Geoff want me to lend him a hand I will.
But there's no wedding photo for me, sorry!!!!!

[Glen]

Birddy, when I look up photogs in phone book, many do weddings but cant find funeral photog. You have your own unique market! I am sure the images are treasured by anyone fortunate to have you at a funeral they organise.

[Geoff]

Birdy - absolutely amazing offer, but I will decline it anyway..I cannot believe your outstanding generosity to us all! Thank you sooo sooooo much. It's been a tough week, but hey - we're getting there, it's people like you Birdy that the world needs there to be more of...you are a shining example to mankind.


Geoff

[Onyx]

I've always held the assumption that it was a social faux pas to be take pictures at funerals. Although it's meant to be a celebration of someone's life - people are almost always showing emotions they'd rather not have remembered.

Sorry for your loss Geoff.

[Dargan]

We have the funeral of a work colleague on Tuesday next. This is a question that had not occured to me. I think no...at least with the D70. He was such a engaging and social individual I could imagine him saying yes from the event though. I think an SLR is a bit in your face for others, and would prefer a prosumer digital like a Sony or Canon of small size, quiet and unobtrusive as others should not be disturbed, but family and friends would still like to remember the day. Maybe Birddog can enlighten as to use of long lens and appropriate kit?

[Killakoala]

I have sat here thinking about this question and wondering what i would do if i died too. I think it would be nice for my descendents to put together a photo album of my life from birth to death and every bit in between so they can open it every now and then and relive my life and their memories of me. So from that point of view i would like someone to film my funeral. (Not that there'd be many at it anyway)

But to shoot at someone elses funeral, well that's an altogether different thing i suppose. I reckon it would be up to the family and guests present to decide if they wanted it done.