Capturing Life’s Final Moments: A Guide to Funeral Portraits

This essay, written by 16-year-old Hoseok Jeon, a student at Korea International School in Seongnam, South Korea, is recognized as one of the top ten winners in a national contest for informational writing by teenagers.

We will be sharing the works of all winners in the coming days, providing a platform for young voices.

A Thoughtful Approach to Preparing Funeral Portraits

For individuals approaching the end of a well-lived life, having a funeral portrait taken need not be a somber or distressing experience. Take Park Young Hoon, an 81-year-old security guard from Seoul, whose photo session turned into a joyful morning spent with his granddaughter. Their time together included breakfast, a leisurely walk accompanied by birdsong, and ended with sharing ice cream after the shoot.

Park reflects, “While many view this as morbid, I saw it as an opportunity to create another meaningful memory.” This perspective shifts the funeral portrait from a grim formality to a cherished everyday moment that may become the lasting image for loved ones. “You can treat your memory as just a routine, or transform it into a heartfelt farewell,” he suggests.

The process begins by booking a session at a photography studio. Park recommends morning appointments, noting, “By afternoon, you’ve experienced so much that the unusualness of taking a funeral portrait fades away.” He also advises staying active prior to the shoot to ease anxiety. “Life often restricts our choices in many ways — from family obligations to taxes. This portrait gives you a chance to take back control over how you are remembered.”

Next comes selecting appropriate clothing. Park challenges the convention that funeral portraits require formal attire. “Your image should reflect who you truly are. It wouldn’t make sense for a passionate traveler to wear a suit for such a photo.” He likens life to a novel, with the portrait serving as its cover — an image that endures forever. For his own portrait, Park chose to wear his security guard uniform, stating, “It’s been who I am for 20 years — why pretend otherwise?”

When attending the appointment, bringing a companion can make a significant difference. “My granddaughter’s jokes helped me relax and smile naturally, rather than forcing a stiff expression,” Park recalls. Genuine emotions hold greater value than posed perfection.

The photo session itself is straightforward — simply follow the photographer’s direction and focus on authenticity rather than flawlessness. “A powerful photograph doesn’t just capture a moment in time,” Park reflects. “It evokes scents and feelings, reconnecting us to what truly matters.” Ultimately, the hope is that these portraits will remind others of the bonds shared. “So smile,” he concludes, “not just for the camera, but for the rich and wonderful life you have lived.”