I have been given many wonderful gifts in this lifetime, but not a lot comes close to the gift I received when I photographed this extraordinary family.
This is no ordinary family. It is a young family filled with love, affection, closeness and beauty. But it is a family that is changed. Changed by the death of their husband and father in a work related accident, just this year.
When I was contacted by beautiful mother, Ansia, she told me that having family portraits done without her husband was going to be a very difficult and sad thing to do. She was certain however, that she didn’t want any more time to slip by without capturing her family – it was something they had meant to do for years and hadn’t got around to it… I can’t even explain how it made me feel that she wanted me to photograph them. To say I was truly honoured would be an understatement.
Ansia, Tiaan Anya and Alani – spending the morning and photographing your family has been the highlight of my photography life to date. The special bond you share is evident – there is something so close ….. so incredibly beautiful about the love you share. I’m feel so privileged I was able to witness it and capture it. But it’s not just stored as physical images – it’s stored in my mind.
Ansia – you are an extraordinary mother. Your smile, your nature, your compassion and your love for your children makes me want to be a better mother. You are brave and beautiful and I am so glad to have met you, and your amazing children.
As you are about to see, the kids in this family are absolutely stunning. I must also give a special mention to Anya (the oldest girl in the family) who managed to knock out her front tooth about a week before the photo session! I think it looks so darn cute though!
I really hope you enjoy your preview and I will be in touch with your full gallery very very soon.
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Just gorgeous Jen – you have captured their love for one another so beautifully.
Awwwwh Jen you should be so proud of the way you’ve captured this gorgeous family. So, so proud. I bet they will treasure these images for ever. Beautiful work darl. xx
what beautiful images of this brave and gorgeous family!
Jen, knowing the story behind these photos, and the photos themselves has brought a tear to my eye. An absolute tragic story :’(
You have done a magnificent job of capturing the bond, the closeness and love that this family so obviously share.
These photos will be treasured forever without a doubt!!
Well done Jen!! xo
what a beautiful family Jen, such wonderful memories you have captured.
I literally have goosebumps and dont know what to say!!!
Oh my what stunning images and such a beautiful family! You have truly captured their spirit and I am sure they will treasure these photographs for life! Beautiful work Jen!
Jen, what a stunningly gorgeous family. And what an amazing post – I have goosebumps and have teared up at reading what you had to say. You’re very right – this family is very special and it’s clear from these images that the love + bond they share is powerful. I just know mum is going to love these so much. And what a terrific job you’ve done with this great honour. xoxo
Stunning work Jen! This beautiful family will be forever grateful for the gift your photography has given them as well! XOXO
What a beautiful family and such a touching story. These photographs are stunning Jen, you should be proud of yourself for catching such wonderful moments and Mum should be proud of herself, the love between her and her children shines through in these images.
They are SO beautiful Jen. You are an amazing talent and I’m sure Mum will adore these!
These are just gorgeous Jen, you are so talented and have a warm, kind heart. What a truly beautiful family these guys are – totally in the moment. I have tears sliding down my face reading their story. What a wonderful mum.
there is something special about the image with the little boy with his hand on mums necklace.
jen you have captured this family beautifully, what a heart wrenching story but what amazing character and determination this mother has for her children, the strength and courage to go on thru this tragedy is inspirational.. this family will forever treasure these photos that you have taken ..
Lost for words. The story, the images, the people. Well done Jen.
Oh Jen. You have bought tears to my eyes. WHat a beautiful, beautiful family. You have captured them so wonderfully. What an amazing Mum this lady is. Many blessings to her and her beautiful family.
xxx
seriously beautiful – you have captured the spirit of this family. What a wonderful gift.
truly beautiful work Jen. My heart goes out to that very lovely family.
Avery moving and touching story behind this photo shoot. The photos are stunning, and the location is just beautiful. Love your work. Best wishes to this family in the future.
Oh, what a wonderful session. So much love and joy you have captured. Beautiful images.
Amazing post and photos, Jen, you are a true storyteller, you have a unique gift. This feels like such a celebration of the healing power of love, and the importance of now, but also the importance of remembrance. Mum’s necklace brings tears to my eyes. Best Wishes to a beautiful family.
Too cute for words! Amazing Jen!
Jenn these are the most amazing shots I have ever seen…. you my darling have totally and utterly surpassed yourself… beautiful family and a sad but touching story. My heart goes out to them!! xxxx
What a beautiful Mum! Such a lovely photo session and a very touching story.
wow these are just stunning. what a stunning family. all smiles, positive, full of love.
beautiful images Jen.. all just gorgeous xx
God I love your photography Jen. You capture the most freaking awsome moments, so perfectly. I want to be you when I grow up (except I’m probably older than you LOL)
These photos are just magnificent! I remember meeting Ansia almost 5 years ago when we joined the same Mother’s Group after the birth of our first children. Such a happy, content woman and those characteristics were sure to be passed onto her babies. Though I’ve not been in contact with Ansia, I send her and the children my love and prayers. These photos brought a tear to my eye. It’s amazing how your photography captures their spirit!