The phone often rings for filming weddings, but the voice on the other end of the line, isn’t after the normal filming package.
The gentleman representing a local funeral parlour takes the time to explain that the family they are representing are looking to have the service, followed by the burial, filmed at Lewes Cemetery.
Now you may jump to the conclusion that this isn’t a very common request or perhaps it’s a direct result from the restrictions being placed on services due to the Covid virus, but in all honesty, you may be surprised to know that this isn’t the first time I’ve been asked.
“Everyone grieves in different ways, there’s no right or wrong way to do it”
For me it seems a strange request. For a man used to filming tears of joy, to suddenly find myself being asked to film tears of sorrow, is a shift that I’m not entirely comfortable with at first, as I explain to the guy on the phone. It’s his response that changes my mind “Everyone grieves in different ways, there’s no right or wrong way to do it” and he’s right, who am I to judge the legitimacy of filming the day?
And that’s what I did! And obviously I won’t be sharing the footage as it’s only ever meant for the family’s eyes only, but I’m proud of the job that I have done. I was able to film it, with the upmost respect, whilst still giving it the same personal touch that I do for all my clients. Was it difficult to film? No, not really. When I’m asked to do a job, whether it’s a joyous or sad occasion, I set about it exactly the same way.
“It’s about capturing it the best way I know how“
It’s about capturing it the best way I know how, different challenges (I didn’t feel comfortable putting microphones on mourners) but still capturing the best sound & making sure that the cameras are in the best positions to film the day properly, but are also respectfully placed to be as unobtrusive as possible.
Do you walk away from the day unaffected? Not entirely. Seeing a grieving family’s pain & anguish as they say goodbye to a loved one is never going to be easy. But I’m there to do a job, to make sure I deliver on the family’s wishes, to serve them the best way I know how.
“they are words of love & kindness & are life affirming rather than morbid”
I don’t think I’ll ever forget the day, in exactly the same way I remember every single wedding. The editing process, involves you looking at the footage over & over again. Words from loved ones end up imprinted in my brain, but they are words of love & kindness & are life affirming rather than morbid. Would I do another one? Yes, because it’s not about me. It’s about someone’s needs & how I can fulfil that need by being professional & empathic.
The Memorybiz x
