27 Apr

Engaging Charlotte NC Family Photographer| National Tell-A-Story Day

Engaging Charlotte NC Family Photographer| National Tell-A-Story Day

Today is National Tell-A-Story Day and I thought this photograph of a Mom and her little man sharing a story was the perfect image to share today.  Isn’t amazing what happens when we open a book to read to our children? All Mom had to do was open this book to read to her son, and this sweet moment just happened.  I love how he just cuddled into her arms ready to read with his Momma.  It’s the simple, classic moments in life that are filled with memories.  They bring us back to childhood and to our favorite places.  Being a mom now, I love reading time with my kids and this photograph speaks to my heart as I remember all those nights with my own little munchkins snuggled into my arms and lap ready to read a good story together.

From National Day Calendar, it says “On National Tell A Story Day, it does not matter if the story is a short story or a long story, fiction or nonfiction, a tall tale or folklore. This is a day for them all.  We encourage you to tell your stories and even share them on social media using #NationalTellAStoryDay.”

Engaging Charlotte NC Family Photographer for National Tell A Story Day

10 Apr

Classic Charlotte NC Family Portraits – National Siblings Day

Classic Charlotte NC Family Portraits – National Siblings Day

As you may have heard, today is National Siblings Day and I love taking a few moments on this day to share some of my favorite portraits of siblings from the last year.  Siblings are your instant best friends, biggest supporters, shoulders to cry on, and they will be a special part of almost all of your childhood memories.  And yes, they are also the people you will likely fight with the most, but regardless of the fights, teasing, or competing, they are the people that will always be there for you when you need them. They will be in your biggest cheerleaders in life, and even your defenders should you ever need them.

There is just something amazing that comes with being and having a sibling, and it is definitely something to celebrate. It is unconditional and everlasting.

Having a sister myself, I have always loved the song “Sisters” featured in the movie White Christmas.  ‘Sisters, Sisters, there were never such devoted sisters . . .”

Charlotte NC Family Photograph shares classic sibling portraits for National Siblings Day

 

While many of these are classic portraits of siblings, I think the last image at the bottom may be one of my favorites showing the silliness of siblings working together in opposite of their parents. That image was not posed or requested and was just a natural moment from an adorable family session.
Classic Charlotte NC Family Portraits shared by Carolyn Ann Ryan for National Siblings Day shared by family photographer Carolyn Ann Ryan

 

And below, here are some favorite images of my family members.  On the top left is my four beautiful nieces, which my daughter jumping in.  On the top right is a photograph from a family party showing my father with his eldest brother along with my aunt and my mom. The brother two images highlight the sibling goofiness and friendship of my own two children.  The bottom left photograph was taken by my talented friend, Annette Goodman, from Annette Goodman Photography during our family portrait session last year.

Classic Charlotte NC Family Portraits shared by Carolyn Ann Ryan for National Siblings Day

24 Feb

North Carolina Family Photographer – Sunshine on a Cloudy Day

North Carolina Family Photographer – Sunshine on a Cloudy Day

It might be cold outside, but inside the studio, the smiles and giggles can just warm your heart!

This smiling munchkin made us giggle so much during this session.  Little guys are always very curious, and that was true for this baby in blue, intently taking in the new surroundings, new people and new things to get his hands on.  Mom was prepared and brought some of his favorite ‘loves’.  These photographs can be such a special keepsake for the little ones when we incorporate their favorite toys and books and truly capture their personality at this stage in their life.

the size of his smiles that we had a wonderful time!!Carolyn Ann Ryan Photography captures  children smiles in her studio

23 Feb

Charlotte, NC Child Photographer – Communion Portrait Season

Westfield NJ, Child Photographer – Communion Portrait Season

Thoughtful. Beautiful. Thankful. Peaceful. Loved.  These are just a few of the words that came to mind when I was processing the images of this young lady on her special day.  I was lucky to be able to capture some of these images in our studio, as well as outdoors.  I can’t help but think that she and her family were also feeling some of the same sentiments, as well.

Communion season is almost here (and hopefully warmer weather to go along with it), so don’t forget to book your child’s Communion Portrait Session or a full family Portrait Sessions and we can also capture your little one in the Communion dress/suit on that same day!

first communion special moments captured by Carolyn Ann Ryan Photography Communion Photographs captured by Carolyn Ann Ryan Photography

 

21 Feb

Childhood Photographer Charlotte, NC – What are you wishing for this year?

Childhood Photographer Charlotte, NC – What are you wishing for this year? 

If I asked this question right now, most people in the Northeast would answer with warmer weather, sunshine, Spring, Summer, etc.

Have you ever wondered what a child was thinking when you asked them a question?  I just love the sweet expression in this first photograph when I asked her “What are you wishing for this Christmas?”  You could tell there was a long list running through her head, and her eyes twinkled and sparkled with happiness as she thought about Christmas morning.

The rest of the session was filled with happiness and giggles as we spent a beautiful afternoon in the Fall enjoying the outdoors.  Here’s hoping your wishes come true this year.

 

Child and Family portraits by Carolyn Ann Ryan Photograhy in Charlotte, North Carolina
Childhood Photographer Charlotte, NC - Childhood moments captured by Carolyn Ann Ryan Photography

08 Jan

Charlotte, NC Family Photographer – Hearts Galore

Charlotte, NC Family Photographer – Hearts Galore

Isn’t it bizarre how a simple outfit can change your mood and make you so happy?  Isn’t it true that when you feel good about the way you look in a particular dress or pair of jeans, it can make your whole day?  This adorable young lady looked so sweet and happy in this perfectly pink and red dress.  We just had to capture this moment.  As a parent, there are times during your children’s youth when you want to be able to remember how adorable they are and this was one of those times.  It was around Valentines Day when we photographed these images (hence the jewelry and hearts!)  and Mom wanted to capture that feeling –  when she saw her daughters smile in the most perfect little dress.  Transforming you back to those special moments –  PRICELESS!

Westfield, NJ Family Photographer photographs young lady in portrait studio for valentines day carolyn ann ryan photographs young lady in westfield portrait studio

08 Sep

Union County North Carolina Family Photographer | Quiet Moments

Union County North Carolina Family Photographer | Quiet Moments

No doubt about it, life is busy. Careers, kids, spouse, friends, family – sometimes it seems like there’s not enough time to fit it all in. But once in a while, when you least expect it, life gives you a quiet gift. Sometimes it’s in the form of a warm hug, a silly giggle or sweet kiss that keeps you grounded and reminds you what life is all about. These images remind me that in a fast paced world of go-go-go, there are the moments with our families that we want to hold on to and cherish as we tackle the day to day.

 

Union County North Carolina Family Photographer

Union County North Carolina Family Photographer Carolyn Ann Ryan takes playful photos of children and parents

 

 

 

31 Jul

Dreamy North Carolina Childhood Photography | Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

Dreamy North Carolina Childhood Photography | Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

It’s Christmas in July!!!  Or maybe it’s just me trying to catch up on sharing some of last year’s portrait sessions.  I do love twinkling lights in the backdrop of a portrait session.  I also love capturing the bond between sisters – one that is truly irreplaceable. My sister and I have a bond that no other could replace, and the same is true with these two special ladies.  I’ve had the privilege to watch these little girls grow over the last 4 years through my lens and photographs.  This was our 5th session together (and I’m looking forward to their sixth session already booked for this Fall!).    These girls came prepared, as they always do, to show me their stuff- their sassy sister poses, their giggles, their hugs, and especially their fabulous dresses and accessories (thanks to mom!!).

Dreamy North Carolina Childhood Photography Charlotte Uptown Session Dreamy North Carolina Childhood Photography Park Session by Carolyn Ann Ryan Dreamy North Carolina Childhood Photography Urban Session by Carolyn Ann Ryan

30 Jul

Cheerful Charlotte, NC Child Photographer – Smiles, and Laughter and Minions- Oh My!

Cheerful Charlotte, NC Child Photographer – Smiles, and Laughter and Minions- Oh My!

Any photographer will tell you that you need to be prepared for anything, and for the first time in a long while, I was taken off guard by this little man. The reason why is simple – I didn’t know I could fall in love more than I already am with this little Minion. I had prepared a day for my son and I to capture a few special moments for his upcoming birthday party invitations designed around his favorite character. I have to admit I was prepared with the outfit and hat, but what this little guy did for me when it all came together, was remind me of how NOT so little he is anymore. And that took my breath away for a moment. He is truly “one in a minion!” The beauty of capturing images of your family is that you can look at a photograph and you are instantly takes you back to that moment and you feel the rush of love all over again. THAT is why I love my job!

Cheerful Charlotte, NC Child Photographer Birthday session with Carolyn Ann Ryan Carolyn Ann Ryan captures amazing smiles in studio Charlotte, NC Child Photographer Carolyn Ann Ryan photographs 5 year old boy in Charlotte NC

 

 

25 Jul

Graceful Charlotte, NC Child Photography – Holy Communion

Lovely and Graceful Charlotte, NC Child Photography

Not only do these smiling faces bring happiness to every single day for this family, but on this day I was lucky enough to be a part of the sweetness and joy of a precious milestone. We captured some beautiful moments, together with her and her brothers. Everything we captured was as symbolic as the special milestone itself. I especially love the moments that she seems to be reflecting on her accomplishments as she gazes at her flowers, and maybe, just maybe, she is thinking how proud she is on this special day. These are the sessions that remind me how lucky I am to be able to provide families with memories that will be a part of their child’s journey.

Carolyn Ann Ryan photographs 8 year old for communion portraits

Lovely and Graceful Charlotte, NC Child Photography Charlotte NC Child Photographer works in her studio capturing communion moments

 

 

 

 

17 Jul

Playful Charlotte, NC Family Portraits | Ready, Set, Leaves!

Playful Charlotte, NC Family Portraits | Ready, Set, Leaves!

I just love how the fall season creates a beautiful backdrop for a family portrait session. It’s the combination of colors, lighting and cool breeze that make it my favorite time of year, and this session highlighted everything I love about the season.  Mother Nature provided all the fun we needed.

While I am so excited that the summer is here and we get to have great beach days, lots of ice cream cones and have the kids stay up way past bedtimes, images like these remind me that just around the corner is my favorite time of year.  After the hot and humid weather disappears, there is still so much more fun and excitement to look forward to and so many fun sessions on the way!  And now is a great time to think about booking that Fall family session!

Playful Charlotte, NC Family Portraits in Autumn Carolyn Ann Ryan photographs Playful Charlotte, NC Family Portraits Charlotte, NC Family Photographer Carolyn Ann Ryan photographs playful and fun family portrait sessions

09 Jul

New Jersey Child and Family Photographer | Walking in Sunshine – Promise Walk for Preeclampsia – Cranford, NJ

For the second year in a row, I photographed The Promise Walk for Preeclampsia held at Oak Ridge Park in Clark, NJ.  After photographing last year’s event, I heard from numerous friends and client Moms that had also been impacted by Preeclampsia during pregnancy.  And while many of the stories I heard do have happy endings, unfortunately there are still too many that do not.

The Promise Walk for Preeclampsia – Cranford supports The Preeclampsia Foundation, and their mission to provide patient support and education, raise public awareness, catalyze research and improve healthcare practices.  This organization holds a special place in my heart for the help they have provided to dear friends, and so I continue to support and contribute to this organization and donate my time to their events.

Thankfully, the sun was out this year for our event organizers, volunteers and walkers, and it was another amazing day!  Once again, I met a ton of wonderful people as well as reconnected with good friends.

I created this slideshow with my favorite images from the day and shared it with the race organizers.  I invite you to take a couple of minutes to watch the slideshow, but I also ask that you take some time to learn more about Preeclampsia and its symptoms from the Preeclampsia Foundation.

The Promise Walk for Preeclampsia – Cranford has raised over $32,000 for this cause, with donations still accepted through August.  If you would like to donate, you can do so by clicking here.  Thank you for your time.

 

28 Mar

Classic Charlotte, NC Fall Family Portraits

Classic Charlotte, NC Fall Family Portraits

Fall seems like a distant memory especially after this past winter.  Thankfully I have these warm photographs to remind me that winter will soon come to an end!  As I look back at these images, I’m reminded that there is nothing better than family.  Through thick and thin and for better or worse, your family is always with you. What a joy it was for me to be a part of this day, I got to witness and experience the true happiness of family.

Classic Charlotte, NC Fall Family Portraits with beautiful autumn colors Classic Style for Fall Family Portraits in Charlotte, NC area Classic Charlotte, NC Fall Family Portraits by Photographer Carolyn Ann Ryan

 

Fall seems like a distant memory especially after this past winter.  Thankfully I have these warm photographs to remind me that winter will soon come to an end!  As I look back at these images, I’m reminded that there is nothing better than family.  Through thick and thin and for better or worse, your family is always with you. What a joy it was for me to be a part of this day, I got to witness and experience the true happiness of family.

17 Mar

Sunny Marvin, NC Family Photographs | I need spring!

Sunny Marvin, NC Family Photographs | I need spring!

I don’t know about you but I’m just about done with winter.  We’ve had snow, the temps have been in the single digits and the holidays are over so I’d be very happy if we could just fast forward to spring. We are so close to it and I can’t wait!

That’s why I had to post these colorful, bright, cheerful photos of this beautiful family of 4!  I can just feel this warm sunshine on my back, smell the green blades of grass and hear the sweet giggles of these two sisters.  Oh spring time, you can’t come fast enough!

 

Sunny Family Portraits by Marvin, North Carolina Family Photographer Sunny Marvin, NC Family Photographs by Family Photographer Carolyn Ann Ryan Sunny Marvin, NC Family Portraits

24 Feb

Union County, NC Family Photographers | Tickled Pink

Union County, NC Family Photographers | Tickled Pink

Photo sessions with babies can sometimes be unpredictable.  We have to coordinate meals, snacks and sometimes naps!  Some days you just never know what you’re going to get, but this sweet little girl was a true pro – she posed, giggled and laughed.  We did photos indoor and outdoors, had wardrobe changes and even the dog looked picture perfect.  Can’t get much better this!  And I just can’t get enough of the beautiful dresses and headbands that her mother coordinated for this day! This little lady is truly pretty in pink (and purple too!)

 

Union County, NC Family Photographers

 

Union County, NC Family Photographer Carolyn Ann Ryan Union County, NC Family Photographer Carolyn Ann Ryan Photography