DEATH DO US PART - A PERSONAL PHOTO ESSAY

When I was young and just starting to take photographs, I remember wanting to get into portraiture and every member of my family declining my request to take a photo of them. Every one except for my Papa, Morton Goldmeier. He seem to understand my passion for the medium early on and stood outside patiently as I took my very first portrait on my Pentax analog camera. Instantly, he became my favorite subject. Over the years as his memory and functions began declining, he always managed to connect with me through the camera and never objected to me trying to sneak photos of him or other members of my family.

August 2015, I got a call that my Papa was going into the hospital and it was time for me to come and say goodbye. I drove to the medical facility in Norfolk, Virginia to see him and become overwhelmed with this need to document his last moments. For my grandmother, Elaine who I call Bubbie, the idea of having a camera around at such a vulnerable time caused great discomfort. However, for me it felt like the only way I could process his departure. I started shooting photos discreetly on my iPhone, making sure my papa was at least aware of my actions.

What started as a series focused on my Papa soon turned into this visual diary of the dedication my grandparents had for each other.  My bubbie refused to leave his side.   After aiding his failing health for half a decade, her unwavering commitment to him became this light in the darkness.  As his last few days approached, and his final awareness slipped away, I saw him register me and my “camera,” he even smiled once.  The role my photography played in our relationship over the years never felt so important and it felt like the best way to say goodbye.   

Morton Goldmeier passed away Tuesday August 15, 2015 at the age of 91. After 6 years, I am finally sharing the photographs.