Hi, I'm Nikki Kellogg.
I have lost all four grandparents, (one grandmother when I was only 13 years old), and we have no pictures from any of their funerals. I felt an emptiness with their absence, and couldn't seem to find that final closure because I don't remember much from those events. Who was there to pay their respects? What did the flower arrangements look like? What color was the beautiful casket? Let me assist you with finding that closure and help with the healing process with heartfelt photography that you can view when you are ready.
As a photographer, I am driven by my love for capturing images that tell a story. I strive to create images that are unique and non-traditional in order to stand out from the crowd, but I've felt this strong desire to help others by creating beautiful lasting images of their loved one's Celebration of Life.
A Blog About Funeral Facts
Did you know that people have been practicing funerary rituals for tens of thousands of years? Funeral customs vary widely around the world, and throughout history. I started posting funeral-related posts every Friday on Facebook and Instagram, using the hashtag #FuneralFriday, with the purpose of sharing educational facts about funerals, cemeteries, hearses, and other death-related rituals. The goal is to provide knowledge and comfort, and to pay tribute to a life well lived. To read more interesting blog posts, click on BLOG from the menu.
Testimonials
“I am so grateful that we had pictures taken at my husband's funeral. The pictures provide a beautiful memory of his celebration of life. Nikki was professional and discreet and very accommodating.”
—Susan
“Coming soon...”
—Sarah
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions I get about being a funeral photographer, and hopefully these will help. But of course, feel free to contact me if you have other questions and I'll answer them as soon as I can.
FAQ
How do you photograph funerals?
I'm glad you asked! Having a funeral photographer is not for every family or situation, but having these lasting memories would help the healing process for days and years to come. Being very discrete, caring, and respectful, only photographing what the family wants, and centering on the smiles, love, and joy that the decedent had left behind. Funerals are too significant not to be photographed, so let me help you heal.
Where are you based and do you travel?
I'm located near Rochester NY, and yes I love to travel! If you want me to photograph your story out of the area, it will require a travel fee, depending on where it takes place. But no worries, I always try to find the cheapest way to travel and I know expenses can add up. I will work with you on what's best.
When will we get our photos?
You will receive an online gallery link with all your photos within about 1-2 weeks (sometimes less depending on the season). You can download the photos from the gallery but also share them with family and friends who were unable to attend. The keepsake album may take an extra week or two.
How many pictures will we receive?
This will depend entirely on the package and type of session that you order. Quality is always preferred rather than quantity, and that's why I will choose the best and more significant photos to tell your story.
Am I allowed to print some photos I receive?
Absolutely! Even though I hold the copyright to the photos, you will receive a Print Release for personal use that gives you permission to reproduce the images, which can include cards, prints, and social media.
What equipment do you have?
My main camera is a Canon 6D Mark II full-sensor, and EOS R mirrorless. Lenses include:
Prime- Canon 50mm, f1.8
Standard- Canon Ultrasonic 24-105mm, f4
Wide- Zomei 0.45x wide angle (10.8-47.3mm)
Zoom- Canon 75-300mm, f4-5.6
Zoom- Opteka 420-1600 telephoto
Macro- Vivatar 1x, 2x, 4x, 10x
Flash- Canon Speedlite EL-100
My backup camera is a Sony DSLR Alpha300 with the following lenses:
Sony 50mm f1.8 DT SAM, alpha mount A.F.
Tamron 200-500mm f6.9 M.F.
Minolta AF zoom, 70-210mm
Minolta AF zoom, 35-70mm
Vivitar Series 1, MZ 5000, 650-1300mm
