Post Mortem Photography: The Modern Revival
Post Mortem Photography, also known as memorial portraiture, is a genre of photography popularized in the 19th century. Post mortem photography involves taking pictures of a deceased person, usually with a life-like pose. This practice is seen as bizarre, as it is quite morbid, but it was a common practice in the 19th century. In this article, we will explore the modern revival of post mortem photography and how it has been adapted to modern times.
The History of Post Mortem Photography
Post mortem photography originated in the 1840s, following the invention of the daguerreotype. This was a type of photography that used a silver-coated copper plate to capture images. It quickly became the most popular form of photography in the 19th century, which led to the development of post mortem photography. It was seen as a way to preserve the memory of a loved one after their death, as the daguerreotype offered a sense of realism that no other form of photography could.
Post mortem photography was a common practice in the 19th century, and it was often used to commemorate the life of a loved one. It was also used as a way to document the effects of a fatal illness or accident. The photos often featured the deceased in a life-like pose, often with their eyes open and looking directly into the camera. This was seen as a way to preserve the memory of the deceased, as well as to capture the last moments of their life.
The Modern Revival of Post Mortem Photography
In recent years, there has been a revival of post mortem photography. This has been driven by the advent of modern digital photography, as well as a desire to remember the deceased in a more respectful and dignified way. Post mortem photography has been adapted for modern times, with photographers using more subtle poses, natural lighting, and softer colors. This has allowed the photos to be more tasteful and less macabre.
Post mortem photography is now being used as a way to celebrate the life of the deceased. It is seen as a way to remember and honor a loved one, and to preserve their memory in a respectful and dignified way. Many post mortem photographers now offer a range of services, such as photoshoots in the deceased’s home, or at a location of their choosing.
The Benefits of Post Mortem Photography
Post mortem photography can be beneficial to those who have lost a loved one. It can be a way to remember and honor the deceased, and to preserve their memory in a dignified way. Many families find that the photos help them to cope with the loss, and provide them with a sense of comfort and closure. Post mortem photography can also be a way to celebrate the life of the deceased, and to remember the happy memories.
Post mortem photography can also be beneficial to the photographer. It can be a way to express creativity and to capture memories that will last forever. It is a way for the photographer to connect with the deceased, and to help them to remember the good times. Post mortem photography can also be a way for the photographer to help families to cope with loss, and to create a lasting memory of their loved one.
Conclusion
Post mortem photography is a genre of photography that has experienced a modern revival. It has been adapted for modern times, with photographers using more subtle poses, natural lighting, and softer colors. Post mortem photography can be beneficial to those who have lost a loved one, as it can be a way to remember and honor the deceased, and to preserve their memory in a dignified way. It can also be beneficial to the photographer, as it can be a way to express creativity and to capture memories that will last forever.