Photographing the memorial service for Richard Stillwell with sensitivity in Pacific Grove

I was asked to photograph the memorial service for Richard Stillwell, a very well known figure for nearly a century in Pacific Grove, California. The stories told by his family members and his friends during the memorial service covered all aspects of his life from how he was a firefighter, a mentor, and as a very active figure in the community so well, that even though I never met him, I felt I had a very good idea of what type of person he was and how impactful he was on many people’s lives. Many people were visibly overcome with emotion in attendance. As a photographer at such an event, there is a balance to be found of sensitivity, but also capturing the moments that will help others remember this memorial and feel its impact long after this day. What you see in these photos is my effort to find that balance.

Local Event Photography for Pacific Grove Families & Community

Being a part of the Pacific Grove community means showing up with care, compassion, and professionalism—especially during deeply emotional moments like memorials and celebrations of life. Photographing these events requires not only technical skill but a quiet presence, empathy, and an understanding of when to document a moment and when to simply give space. If your family or organization in Pacific Grove, Monterey, Carmel, or Pebble Beach needs a photographer you can trust to handle a sensitive event with dignity, respect, and discretion, I am here to support you. Please feel free to reach out to discuss how I can help you preserve meaningful memories with the utmost care.