I have been a volunteer photographer in remembrance photography since 2008. What exactly do I do?
I give bereaved parents an intimate photography session and provide them with high quality black and white photos of their babies. These photos serve as a tangible reminder of a child that is loved and remembered.
I journey with the parents in processing their grief and help them honour a life that will forever be cherished.
To find out more about what I do, you may refer to these available resources of my speaking engagements and writing, when I was volunteering for a US-based charity organisation. I am currently volunteering as an independent Singapore-based photographer, with the intention to grow the community locally.
For Parents
About The Session
If you learn before the delivery that your baby has a life-limited condition, please get in touch with me so that we can work on a plan for a photography session. As each case is unique and the situation is usually fluid, I understand that there is no fixed time for photography. I will work with you on a plan and guide you through the process.
Take Your Own Photographs
You are also highly encouraged to take your own photos, as you can never have too many. My session with you will usually last around 30-45 mins long.
Life Support
If your baby is on life support, I will be available to photograph before or after life support is removed – according to your comfort level. However, it is highly encouraged that we photograph your baby after life support is removed so that we don’t capture the tubes and wires.
What You Will Receive
A complimentary intimate photography session
Hi-res photographs in black and white
Images delivered in a secure link via email
Volunteer Professionalism
I have been a trained volunteer photographer since 2008, and will conduct this photography service in a professional, respectful, and sensitive manner. I am there as a guest and at the request of the family, and will carry out the session with as little disruption towards hospital services as much as possible. Should there be any issues that need to be addressed, please get in touch with me through the details found on the contact page.
FAQs
What is remembrance photography?
It is a service that helps bereaved parents photograph their babies who have died in utero or are dying at birth.
Our guideline is that the baby be at least 22 weeks at gestation. It may be advisable or inadvisable for before or after 22 weeks — I will consult with the parents on a case-by-case basis.
I will photograph babies of up to six months of age (post-birth).
How does the photography session work?
Upon contacted, I will work closely with you on the schedule and procedure for the session. On the day of the shoot, I will come to the hospital for a private photography session. It is advisable to let the hospital staff know that you have invited a photographer for an intimate photoshoot, so that they are aware and can try to accommodate requests for privacy where possible.
Parents are also required to sign a consent, authorisation, and waiver form before proceeding with the shoot.
When shall I get in touch with the photographer?
As soon as you decide you want to have photographs taken of your baby, please get in touch with me so that we can work out a plan. Any advance notice possible would be greatly appreciated so that I can make myself available for the photoshoot.
My volunteer hours are flexible but I will need as much advance notice as possible so that I can plan for the photoshoot. I will work with you closely through this.
What does the photographer provide the family?
A gift of an intimate photography session between 30-45 mins.
Photos will be delivered in hi-res files through a link via email, and edited in black and white.
Normal turnaround time for photos will be between 2-4 weeks on average. But you may request for 3-5 photos immediately, within 1-2 days should you require them for a memorial service or funeral.
Why are the photos edited in black and white?
The photos are edited in black and white to preserve the memories of the baby in a timeless way. This also helps to soften any discolouration that often happens. I am here to help photograph the story and family connection, and will approach your photos in a respectful, gentle, and sensitive manner.
How much does the service cost?
This is an entirely voluntary service from me, and hence, it is complimentary.
Please refer to the consent, authorisation, and waiver form. Parents are required to fill in this form before the session commences.
Resources
If you want to find out more about the work I do, and the families I’ve worked with, please browse through the resources below.
