Today was a tough day both mentally and emotionally. At the request of the Metal Mulisha, I was asked to shoot Jeremy's memorial service. As it turned out, I was the only photographer allowed to shoot it. I felt so honored to be part of such an important day. Typically I am on the other end of the spectrum. As a wedding photographer I am hired to cover the happiest day in someone's life and my job is to capture those emotions and moments through out the day that tell a beautiful story of two people's love for one another. When the request came in to cover Jeremy's service, my response was, "of course". But as the day's got closer I started getting nervous. I have very little experience with death and funerals and absolutely no experience shooting a funeral. I have only been to 2 funeral's in my life. One when I was five years old and one a couple years ago for my two nieces which were 19 and 21.

I got to the church around 9:30AM to get things setup. Mark Jackson from Sweet Flowers was there getting all the floral arrangements setup and Leah Bennett was helping with ironing out the details. I had created some prints with some large matted frames so guest's could sign so I had to get those setup as well as getting the Jersey Case propped up in front. Right about the time I was finished getting everything setup, the hearse pulled up and moments later, they were walking down the isle with the casket to get it in position. As I stood there watching them get the casket into position, I was frozen and the only thing going through my mind was my friends lifeless body was lying in this box before me. Needless to say, it was a strange feeling and anyone who has been to a funeral knows what I am talking about.

So I headed home to change and grab my camera gear. When I returned around 11:00AM, lots of family and friends had begun arriving so I grabbed my gear and started shooting. Not knowing what I had got myself into the vibe inside the place was intense. It wasn't until about 15 minutes later that reality had hit me. There was a line on both sides of the alter where guests and family members were signing the matt's around the photos. With the casket in the center, several family members were sobbing and hugging. As I was trying to take photos, I broke down myself. Death is a tough thing to grasp and I can't even begin to imagine what Lauren and Jeremy's family are going through.

The turnout was amazing and the service was so good. During the service when friends and family went up to read their condolances, I planted myself up front so I could get photos of them as they told their story of how they remember Jeremy. I think the most memorable moments were listening to both Ronnie Faisst and Brian Deegan. It was evident listening to both of them that they loved Jeremy like a brother. They shared a lot details about the good times they had but most importantly they shared the story of Jeremy Lusk coming to Christ and becoming a born again Christian. It is so great to know that before Jeremy passed away, he gave his life to Christ and right now he is in heaven!

I am not going to post any photos but I will describe one of the photos that really sticks out. There was so much emotion in this shot, it was difficult for me to take.

Brian Deegan, Ronnie Faisst, Jeremy Stenberg, Jeremy's Dad and two other friends of Jeremy and his Dad had just carried the casket out to the hearse. I took a shot as they were walking back in. Twitch is on the left with his fist to his mouth as tears are coming out. Deegan is in front and is trying to be strong and not break down completely. Faisst is to Deegan's left with his head down and both of his fists clenched, you can just see the hurt he is feeling. Jeremy's Dad is to Faisst's left and is completely heart broken. This was one of the toughest shots I have ever had to take and I hope I never have to do it again.

Although this was a difficult event to cover, I am honored that I was able to be a part of it.

Rest In Paradise Jeremy!