Asking for help

Photometric

All,

Yesterday I had the pleasure of shooting a special event. Someone who is 17 was dying of Leukemia. The family and a very special volunteer organization arranged a large birthday party for this him. I was asked to help take pictures which I did as a volunteer. My focus of the day was to try to show him not as someone sick waiting for their last party but to show him as much of a normal 17 year old surrounded by friends and family. I tried to eliminate the wheelchair, focusing on his face and upper body with everyone around him. I haven't had a chance to download the images and will soon at which point I will provide a couple of sample images.

In retrospect, I should have asked for people's input here, but with the experience in mind, is there any advice anyone can regarding future opportunities?

markgorby

Sounds to me like you had a great plan already...can't wait to see some of the images. I'm sure it was a mentally difficult shoot. Kudos to you!

YoungNomad

Much respect for taking on such a challenging job. From your post it sounds like you put a bucket load of thought into the day, which I'm sure will translate to the actual shoot. A good collection of shots, with and without wheelchair etc will let the family decide which ones appeal to them the most.

At the end of the day, you can't really nail what the family wants unless you ask the candid questions, which isn't always appropriate. Can't wait to see the work!

Hackbone

I feel it should always be a celebration of life. Rod Evans did this in the same type of situation.

ivar

Good on ya for shooting this event

Photometric wrote: »

My focus of the day was to try to show him not as someone sick waiting for their last party but to show him as much of a normal 17 year old surrounded by friends and family. I tried to eliminate the wheelchair, focusing on his face and upper body with everyone around him.

I agree with your idea, I would have done the same thing most likely. However, I would make sure to get some shots specifically including his whole body & weelchair as well, since that is 'normal' to him, his family and his friends. They are used to seeing him like that, and shouldn't be completely 'hidden' I think.

Got some images yet? :lurk

Photometric

Yes. I have an update also.

The family loved the images.

The boy passed as well this week, it's very sad. It was very quick.

The family is using the images in the wake, the slideshow that is usually in during the wake.