When her friends from the Roving Rubies Red Hat Society of the Central Coast took her to a recent photography session, Edna Fowler of Woy Woy didn’t just collect some stunning pictures – she reconnected with a long-lost friend.
La Bella Vita Photography was offering free studio portraits for seniors who would share their life story.
Queen Lilimarlene, Marlene Klintworth, said Edna, affectionately known as the society’s own Dame Edna, was keen to have her photo taken.
“I arranged to take Edna there – she will turn 100 in January,” Klintworth said.
“Shannon the photographer was absolutely marvellous and took some lovely photos, which went up on Facebook.
“A comment was made on that Facebook post about a woman named Ettie, who is 100 and came from the same country town as Edna and the wheels started turning.
“I made contact with Ettie, who will be 101 in November, and yes they did know each other, but hadn’t had contact for six decades.
“In fact Ettie’s older sister married a cousin of Edna’s.
“I arranged for them to meet up for a cuppa, and it was so good.
“They hugged and chatted away.
“One would start off a conversation about someone from Bombola and the other would finish.
“We have plans to help the two ladies meet up again soon.”
Shannon Smith of La Bella Vita Photography said her Golden Age portrait sessions were completely free for ;people aged over 80.
“I don’t charge any money for these sessions, because I don’t want anyone to miss out on sharing their story because of financial circumstances,” she said.
“I buy dresses for them to wear and headpieces (along with) fresh flowers for them to hold.
“I do it because if you can give, then you should … the world needs more kindness, more love.
“We need to value what matters and honour those who paved the way for us.
“As a photographer, I love sessions that capture the essence of a story.
“The Golden Age portraits offer a unique opportunity to preserve the captivating stories of a generation that was so resilient.
“Through my images, I aim to honour and celebrate our elderly, who have overcome adversity with limited resources, who were able to find joy amidst the challenges.
“Sadly, these stories often fade away as busy lives overshadow the chance to connect with loved ones.”
“I post the stories to my Facebook and Instagram so there is a physical record the family can see and share.”
To enquire about Golden Age portraits see the La Bella Vita Photography Facebook page.
Meanwhile, Red Rubies will hold their next luncheon at Gosford RSL Club on August 3.
For more details call 0412 760 725.
Terry Collins
Oh this is just Beautiful the photos are amazing and what a great idea to have these done GOlden Age Portraits