5 Tips for Choosing the Right Pictures for a Funeral

Pictures are worth a thousand words. And this statement is even truer at funerals. The images you display are just as important as what’s going to be said.

But if you have many photos of your loved one, choosing a few to use can be overwhelming. Whether you’re putting together a digital memorial or a slideshow, these tips can help guide you.

1. Involve Family Members

Choosing funeral pictures shouldn’t be a one-man decision. Call all the family members and let them participate in this vital task. Chances are, they want to be involved even if they aren’t telling you.

However, please note that there will be differing opinions. Make sure you are flexible and allow everyone to be heard. You’ll not only exchange ideas but also stories about the deceased. And this can be a fantastic way of celebrating their life.

Even if you’ll still choose the photos yourself, you will have some fantastic ideas.

2. Choose Photos That Represent Their Personality

A funeral is one last chance to let your loved one showcase their personality. So, just the right funeral clothes, choose pictures that represent them for who they were.

Think about the things they loved and who they loved. Then use that as a guide. What were their happiest moments? Who did they like spending time with? What did they love to do?

Maybe the deceased loved to bake, or perhaps they had a picture of their favorite vacation. Stick with images that represent who they were and the things they valued.

Tip: Use pictures highlighting milestones from events or even services they offered.

3. Opt for Quality over Quantity

It’s always a good idea to include several pictures. However, be careful of the ones you select. Don’t use blurry pictures or those with low quality. Also, skip old photos and favor recent ones.

You should also be realistic when choosing these images. Limit the pictures where your loved one is in a large group. Most of the photos you choose should be those that are in front or at the center. Pick candid snapshots, studio portraits, or pictures taken during special occasions.

4. Think about the Guests That’ll Be Coming

We all carry different memories of our loved ones when they pass away. So find ways to include pictures that many can relate to, like friends, family, colleagues, etc. That way, the funeral service will be more inclusive and comforting to all.

A child may love to see their parent when they were younger, while a colleague may recognize the picture shared with the deceased. Pictures can bridge generations and remind people that love is different but always deep.

5. Consider the Emotions Each Picture Brings Out

Pictures hold different feelings. Some evoke joy, some nostalgia, and others pain. As you go through the images, take a moment to reflect on how each one makes you feel. Also, think about how it makes others feel. Always go for pictures that bring warmth and allow people to smile through their grief.

Make the Burial a Lasting Memory

When words are not there, the right photos will speak. These aren’t just images. They are doors to love, laughter, and accepting loss. So don’t just aim to assemble a perfect catalog. Focus on honoring the memory of someone you truly loved.

Each picture you choose is a way of saying goodbye. So take your time and trust your heart. And if you need more guidance, we at Memorial Legacy Tribute are always ready to help.