My Most Difficult Assignment to Date

Last Wednesday, I had the hardest assignment I've ever had. I was asked to photograph the funeral of 19 year-old Travis Smith. Smith was a freshman who had died in a car accident a few nights before.

The family had given us (reporter and I) permission to be there and also wanted us there so that we could tell Travis' story, celebrate his life, and show that many people loved him. Since that was the case, I didn't feel guily taking the photos, but it's still extremely difficult to photograph the grieving of friends and family who have lost someone at such a young age.

Here are some of my photos from Smith's funeral. 1000 people filled the church to standing room only during the service.


Smith was a member of the Ball State Men's Golf team, and at the service, the team circled around the casket and presented Smith's parents with a letter jacket.