"Mortician" Project phase two

Like most people, I've often wondered what drives a person to become a mortician. Having been one of those "left behind" by my loved ones, I've witnessed first-hand the comfort a mortician's work brings to those grieving. But what makes them want to get into the business in the first place? Well, for the amazing morticians at Memorial Mortuary in Murray, UT, they unanimously agreed that it was the drive to help make the whole process of death and grieving easier on the living.

Brandon Buningham considers his profession a calling, and I agree. I think you can see it in his eyes.

If you're wondering what made me start photographing morticians (and there are many more to come - keep your eyes peeled), check out Part 1 of this series.

David Bartholomew- Mortician/ Marketing Director

Brandon Burningham- Mortician for 16 years.

Dave Jacobsen- Mortician for 30 years.

Jeremy Layton- Mortician for 9 years.

Marjorie Smith- Mortician for 6 years.

The "MORTICIAN" Project

I've always been fascinated by morticians. What makes a person choose this as their career path? My opinion is that being a mortician is a calling and only a special kind of person can do it. I hope to better understand what makes a mortician through photographing them.

I launched the MORTICIAN project with portraits of a friend I've known for quite a while -- Chad Anderson. Chad has worked at Goff Mortuary in Midvale, UT for the past 8 years and, as of January 2011, became the owner.  I was very glad he agreed to let me take his portraits. My hope is that, through these pictures, you can see in his eyes what kind of a man he is, how much compassion he has, and how seriously he takes his job. Watch for more photos in this series to come...