Author: [email protected]
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{Thomas Family | Byrne State Forest, NJ | Emotive Storytelling Photography}
In this life, if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that those who’ve experienced deep pain or loss often love more fiercely than all.
After nearly losing her husband to sepsis two years ago— and then proceeding to lose three precious babies to miscarriage—Roxann Thomas has never been the same again. Seeing her spouse almost die— and then experiencing the most excruciating loss of three consecutive pregnancies— veritably changed her life.
Hearing from the doctor, “there is no heartbeat,” are words no expectant mother is ever prepared to hear. But through experiencing this pain, Roxann has become more compassionate towards those walking this same road of grief. She supports other women who also mourn their babies, while providing a shoulder to cry on to whoever needs it.
You see, her profound sadness has altered her outlook on life— and she doesn’t let a day go to waste without showing love to those who mean the most to her.
You can see it in the way she wraps her arms around her husband, tightly and purposefully.
Knowing he almost passed away, every touch, every embrace is a miracle— and her husband is HER miracle.
How she holds her daughter with her entire being, breathing her in, soaking in each moment with unfathomable gratitude.
Knowing that every heartbeat, every life is a miracle— and her daughter is HER miracle.
Sometimes it takes tragedy to remind us of what—and who—truly matters. And seeing this family— with all their love, devotion and affection for each other— warmed my soul, knowing how deeply they cherish and appreciate each other, fiercely forever. (11.12.19)
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{Dodson Family | Byrne State Forest, NJ | Emotive Storytelling Photography}
I can remember the exact moment we met, I knew we’d be friends for life☺️ We were standing on their front porch, my son & I delivering a fresh batch of cookies/brownies to each new family in our neighborhood, when Pam stepped out of her front door as sweet as can be.
It only took two minutes of conversation to realize that
1) we are both from Pennsylvania.
2) our kids are about the same age.
3) WE BOTH WENT TO #PENNSTATE !! So it’s no surprise how much I adore this family and how excited I was when she hired me to photograph them! Needless to say, our session together was full of sunshine, laughter and snuggles.
Out of all the sessions I had this fall, theirs had the BEST fall foliage color. The leaves were at their peak and were stunningly vibrant. But more importantly, their love and sweetness shined through each image. And you guys, can we just talk about how CUTE her baby girl is in that BONNET?! 😍 (11.14.19) -
{Cheney Family | Burlington County, NJ | Emotive Storytelling Photography}
“You will never have this day with your children again. Tomorrow, they will be a little older than they were today. This day is a gift. Just breathe, notice, study their faces and little feet. Pay attention. Relish the charms of the present. Enjoy today. It will be over before you know it.” Like most mamas, I get misty-eyed reading this quote, knowing my children will not always be this small. At some point, it’s a realization most parents experience and it forces us to focus on the present, savoring each moment with them—with intention and purpose.
When Tamara reached out to me, I knew this session would be special because I could sense how much her children mean to her. As a single mama with two boys ages 3 & 9, she certainly has her hands full, but she is relentlessly loving, patient and kind towards them. I could see throughout our time together how much she cherishes every second with them and how much they equally adore their mother.
Thank you, Tamara, for trusting me in documenting your sweet little family. I hope these images will always remind you of how blessed you are, how loved you are and how everyday with your boys is truly a gift. (11.09.19) -
{Tory & Brian | Engagement | Emotive Storytelling Photography}
As most of you know, the majority of my work involves capturing families and their little ones👩👩👧👦Very rarely do I photograph engaged couples, but recently I’ve had quite a few sessions where they’ve been my sole subjects💏💕 And can I tell you how refreshing and BEAUTIFUL it’s been to switch gears and document the anticipation and excitement of being engaged?! The new, young love that prefaces a lifetime of marriage together? The kisses, the tenderness, the CHEMISTRY?! There’s nothing like it.✨ Tory reached out to me months ago saying she had seen my work on a friend’s page and
1) asked me if I’d be interested in photographing her wedding
2) if I did engagements.
And while I hated declining the wedding, unfortunately I have NO IDEA where we will be living next summer (thanks to my husband’s job in the military) and would hate to commit to that and end up somewhere far away in Asia🤣 Also, I’ve decided weddings will not be a focus for me until later down the road when my kids are older and my weekends aren’t so sacred. But after chatting with her on the phone, I knew we’d be a good fit for her engagement session😍Tory & her fiancé Brian currently live in NYC but grew up in South Jersey—attending the same high school but not falling in love until years later🥰. She chose historic Smithville Mansion near Mt Holly for their location and it couldn’t have been more perfect. Between the rustic brick buildings and vast grassy fields— coupled with the most epic sunset sky— it was the most romantic evening.
These two complement each other so well; witnessing their strong connection and listening to them tell one another their hopes and dreams for the future warmed my heart— and reminded me of my own love for my husband and the feelings I felt during our engagement.
Thank you, Brian & Tory, for asking me to do this! Wishing you all the best as you prepare to become husband & wife♥️♥️♥️ (11.06.19)
