golden age portraits
As a photographer, I am passionate about capturing moments that tell a story. Golden age portraits provide a special opportunity to preserve the rich narratives of a generation marked by resilience. Through my work, I strive to honor and celebrate our elderly—individuals who faced adversity with limited resources yet found joy in the midst of challenges. Unfortunately, these stories often fade as the demands of modern life make it harder to connect with loved ones. With golden age portraits, I aim to capture the beauty and depth of their journeys, inspiring future generations to cherish and learn from the past
I’ve had a lot of enquiries to participate in my project, so I thought I’d list my frequently asked questions for those who are interested.
How does it work?
The golden age portraits are something I offer to over 80 year olds who are happy to pose and share their story with me. My studio where I take these portraits is at Cooranbong in Lake Macquarie. If the participant is happy to proceed, then we can work out a date to suit. The access is easy and there is only one step to get inside.
What is the cost?
There is no cost involved. I take the images, and share the story. I then send you a gallery to download the high resolution images, which you can share and print. The ability to share the images and story on my social media, is my only payment. I don’t want stories to be lost, or the opportunity to pass someone by due to a family’s financial situation.
I have a family member I wish to nominate they are not yet 80? Whilst I would love to be able to afford to gift everyone the opportunity to have a Golden Age session, I also need to be practical in how much I can give. For anyone under the age limit there is a $200 fee for the session.
How long does it take?
Usually around 40 minutes. If a family member can write out their story and send it to me prior, that’s extremely helpful so I can ask any additional questions while they are in my studio.
Can anyone participate?
Any gender over the age of 80 Is welcome to participate.
Do they have to wear the dresses?
Ideally I’d love to dress each female participant in something beautiful, as a lot don’t have that kind of opportunity. But, if they have a special outfit they’d like to be photographed in, they are welcome to arrive in that for some photos also.
How long are you offering these for?
It will be an ongoing project for me. I do have to fit it around paid work though. Otherwise I can’t continue to offer them as a no cost service. Weekday mornings tend to be when I can complete them. The studio is made of glass, so it’s too hot to work in there through summer. So I will need to stop during the warm months.
How do we book in?
You can either message me here, through my Facebook page, or email me at Shannon.labellavita@gmail.com
