A body ready to be put in the casket

Quite honestly, I feel that this photograph is an unconscionable exploitation of this person, and degrades the dignity that should be afforded to the deceased.

Sobering image.

It would be good to know the context behind the reason for taking it, IMO. I mean if permission was sought and given for documentary purposes, I have no problem with it.

Jose has posted images such as this for a while, I remember seeing Xpan shots similarly. So obviously it's part of a project and I respect that.

I won't get into a debate about what is or is not art. But I do think this is a big enough place to have something outside trees and water. I like this image - it's obviously done by someone committed and taking the project seriously.

Glad to see you posting again, Jose. Your photographs are always striking and interesting.

I think it is a very good photo that is part of an interesting and important project.

Why have you placed this shot in the critique gallery?
From the reactions so far it would be better explored in a thread.
Regards.
John.

I'm always unsettled when I view your photographs. They provoke a strong reaction within.
My problem, (make sure you read that as MY problem), is that I don't know whether it's due to your photography or just because the subject matter is what it is. I can say that I would never even attempt making these types of photographs; I don't have the guts.
It makes me think about the portraits people used to make of deceased people, but where they'd sit them up, dress them up, and make them look as if they were alive. It served as a memento, to remember these people by; often they were children.
I do agree with Dan (FirePhoto) a little bit. If I knew that somebody was going to make photographs of me, after I'm deceased, after my autopsy, all sown up, completely in the nude, I would probably be very angry.

- Thomas

I am a big fan of the series and have been watching for another image for awhile. This one is powerful and sobering as said before. I do however agree with the rights to privacy extending beyond life. There is a sense of violation in this image. My critique would be that you might include some text that helps me feel I have a right to look at the person in this way.
Dennis

I have been critical of these photo's in the past for many of the same reasons already expressed. Jose has answered my critism and I've been forced to accept that he is genuine in his reasons for photographing and posting his work. Yet now several months later this type of work appears again and my reaction is, I wish that he would get over it and move on to something else.

Vincent