A client scheduled an appointment a couple of weeks ago for a family session. They were primarily interested in getting photos of the families with the paternal grandfather, as he was quite ill and his prognosis not good.
We set up a sitting for them, and were anxious to work with this large family supporting their grandpa. I always enjoy family sessions, because the interaction reminds me of my own family gatherings where everyone is teasing, playing and having a good time.
Two days prior to the session, a family member contacted us to let us know that they would not be at the sitting, and that the family patriarch had taken a turn for the worse, and could not travel. We understood completely, of course.
This leads me back to remembering that our elderly loved ones will leave lasting memories in our hearts. But to best preserve those memories, photos are one of the most inspiring way to not only remember your loved ones, but to pass those memories along to generations that follow. It may seem a minor point when everyone is happy and healthy, but it becomes so much more important when people become sick and can no longer function without assistance.
The point here is to get your family photos done now. Don’t wait! And by doing them now, down the line when times are tough and relatives pass on, you’ll have that peace of mind, knowing you have some wonderful portraits of them.
My own father passed away in May of 2008. I miss him every day, and have a portrait up of him in our studio as my inspiration. I have a photo of he and my mother on my desk at the studio, as well. These will always be cherished memories of a man that meant so much to my life.
I welcome you to share your story of loved ones and family members, and your memories of their inspiration to you.