Photography sessions conducted near the end of an individual’s life aim to capture poignant and lasting images. These sessions often involve the individual, their loved ones, and sometimes pets, documenting relationships and preserving memories during a sensitive time. The setting can range from the individual’s home to a location holding special significance. For example, a family might choose to have pictures taken in a garden the individual cherished.
The practice offers several potential benefits. These include providing comfort and closure for the individual and their family, creating a tangible legacy of love and connection, and aiding in the grieving process. While the concept is relatively modern, the underlying desire to memorialize loved ones through portraiture has existed for centuries. The advent of accessible photography has made this type of remembrance more readily available.