Real People – Real Sophie

I was introduced to Sophie through a mutual friend of ours called May (thanks, May), and before we actually met face-to-face, we got to know each other as best we could via the scientific wonder of email.  As we corresponded over the following  days, Sophie mentioned that she’d like to be photographed as part of my project – as a personal dedication to the memory of her mum.

I continue to be fascinated by everyone I meet and how each person has something different to convey through their own personal portraits.  This time I’ll let Sophie reveal her own reasons, in her own words:

“The main reason the ‘real people’ project caught my eye, and why I considered volunteering, was because my mum passed away in December and I wanted to say that grief cannot be seen or heard … only people who have experienced the loss of their loved ones will understand how much of your thoughts and soul have gone with them… the only thing left is memories.”

I asked Sophie if she’d bring along something to the photo-shoot – something  she could use to help express her feelings   We first considered a keepsake ring that had been a gift from Sophie’s mum.  But the most important thing that Sophie had brought with her – all she really treasured – were the priceless memories of her mum – and so here she represents her loss and her love through the simple gesture of  empty heart-shaped hands.

Getting to meet the real Sophie has reminded me that even when we find empty spaces in our lives, they can still contain so very much that’s positive and precious to us.

Thank you Sophie.