Kimberly O'Byrne Photography

Category: Family

  • {Yi Family | Byrne State Forest, NJ | Emotive Storytelling Photography}

    {Yi Family | Byrne State Forest, NJ | Emotive Storytelling Photography}

    I know many of you wonder what my secret is for a successful photo session— and the truth is, there’s no secret at all. If you show up, throw out any idea of “perfection,” and solely focus on LOVING your family, playing with your children, connecting with your spouse– all while embracing EVERY moment (both good AND bad)… this is where real, authentic, MAGICAL moments happen. 
    No matter how much time you spend coordinating the perfect outfits, no matter how many hours you spend curating the perfect day allowing naps/snacks/etc before the session even begins, there is always bound to be a meltdown or tantrum during a session… or a child who refuses to cooperate😂 But that’s OKAY. As long as you stay positive. And remember to remain calm.

    Sometimes just counting your blessings and focusing on gratitude–in the middle of the chaos– can transform your ENTIRE perspective.

    So let your kids RUN, don’t force them to smile at the camera and for the LOVE of all things holy, think of this hour as a sacred opportunity to document your family JUST AS YOU ARE. Leave the stress at home and I’ll do all the work😉

    P.S. this family did all of the above and our session was playful, emotional and SO MUCH FUN💛 (12.13.19)

  • {Lannie | Byrne State Forest, NJ | Emotive Storytelling Photography}

    {Lannie | Byrne State Forest, NJ | Emotive Storytelling Photography}

    The relentless pressures of parenthood. Always wondering, as a mother, am I doing enough? Am I teaching them enough? Am I raising my children in a way their lives will bless others? 
    It’s something we all question. But sometimes all it takes is for someone else to see & share the beauty of your family… for you to know that yes, you’re doing enough.

    Lannie, your boys are respectful, kind, loving and the best of listeners. The way they snuggle up close to you, kiss you and cling to you tells me you’re their blanket of security, their place of peace. 
    The way you gently speak to them and caress their tiny faces tells me you cherish them with your whole being. 
    The way they laugh and play with you tells me yours is a happy home where you savor joke telling, wrestling and silliness.

    Lannie, it’s not often I leave a session in pure awe, but I’m absolutely amazed by your strength and gentleness as their mama. You’re raising three handsome, CARING boys and you should be so, so proud. Thank you for giving me the chance to document your precious love. (12.06.19)

  • {Heil Family | Ft. Dix, NJ | Emotive Storytelling Photography}

    {Heil Family | Ft. Dix, NJ | Emotive Storytelling Photography}

    In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I just want to say how #thankful I am for all the clients I’ve encountered since I first began this photography journey. Each of you holds a special place in my heart. Getting to know your families, connecting with your little ones and capturing all your tender moments is truly my joy.

    Here’s my recent session with the Heil family– who also happen to be the SWEETEST neighbors! And when I say Candace can bake, I’m not even joking. This girl surprised me with a French apple cake (MADE FROM SCRATCH) on my birthday this year! Oh, and did I mention, she’s an abstract artist who paints/creates the most beautiful water-inspired pieces? @candacecheil#supertalented

    The day of their shoot was drizzling, foggy and overcast but it was the exact vibe Candace envisioned for their autumn session! Every time we turned around, the boys were discovering creepy crawly insects of all kinds– even a preying mantis !! We collected acorns, jumped off logs, threw leaves and also managed to sneak in a few snuggles. Needless to say, we had such a fun afternoon, making new memories. @ Ft. Dix, New Jersey (11.27.19)

  • {Sweitzer Family | Smithville Park, NJ | Emotive Storytelling Photography}

    {Sweitzer Family | Smithville Park, NJ | Emotive Storytelling Photography}

  • {Thomas Family | Byrne State Forest, NJ | Emotive Storytelling Photography}

    {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)