Kelly O.

More about Kelly O....

What do you love about your job?

What I love most about my job is the people. Every session is a chance to connect, to hear someone’s story, and to create something meaningful together. Whether I’m photographing a quiet family moment, the energy of a sports event, or the joy of a celebration, I feel honoured to be trusted with capturing life as it unfolds.

There’s something truly special about freezing a moment in time—one that might otherwise be forgotten—and giving it back to someone as a memory they can hold onto forever. I love the emotion, the spontaneity, the laughter, and even the quiet in-between moments. It’s in those spaces that the most genuine images appear.

Photography allows me to blend creativity with connection, to serve others while doing something I truly love. And seeing the joy on a client’s face when they receive their images—that never gets old.

What types of shoots have you done and how did you make them special?

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of photographing a wide variety of subjects—from families and professionals to animals, athletes, and architecture. Each shoot brings its own unique rhythm and story, and my goal is always the same: to make the experience personal, comfortable, and meaningful for everyone involved.

I’ve captured family portraits, birthdays, anniversaries, and reunions, often working with multiple generations. I make these sessions special by creating a relaxed environment where people can genuinely connect.

My work with sports and action photography, including professional sports events, it's all about timing and energy. I focus on capturing determination, movement, and triumph in split seconds—moments that athletes will look back on with pride.

Photographing rescue animals, is a passion project. I have collaborated with shelters to help animals find their forever homes by showing their personality and charm through warm, engaging images. These shoots are often quick but deeply rewarding.

In maternity and lifestyle sessions, I take a gentle, unobtrusive approach—honouring the quiet beauty of those moments and encouraging natural expressions of love and anticipation.

I’ve also worked on interior and architectural shoots, where I highlight light, texture, and spatial flow. I pay close attention to detail and composition, helping builders and designers showcase their work in the best light—literally and figuratively.

What makes each shoot special isn’t just the subject. I take the time to understand what matters most to each client and ensure the experience feels easy, enjoyable, and true to who they are.

Awards, honors, and recognitions received

Kelly O’Hara Images work has been recognised both locally and internationally. I have proudly taken home multiple awards from A\&P Shows, including Best in Show, along with first place in three other photography categories. These accolades are a reflection of her commitment to excellence and my eye for capturing striking, meaningful imagery.

One of my proudest moments came with the global initiative The Front Steps Project, where her heartfelt portraits during New Zealand’s COVID-19 lockdown were published in a not-for-profit book—and even featured in the Wall Street Journal, bringing my to tears of joy.

My images have also appeared in a wide range of newspapers, magazines, pamphlets, and online publications, further cementing my reputation as a trusted and talented visual creator.

A fun fact about this photographer

Before stepping behind the lens, Kelly O’Hara was no stranger to the spotlight. As a professional fashion model, she worked across a variety of styles—from elegant bridal couture and bold lingerie to relaxed, comfortable streetwear. Her favourite? Catwalk and live event modeling, where the energy of the audience and the movement of the runway brought everything to life.

Kelly still enjoys the occasional chance to dress up and take part in Fashion in the Field competitions at horse racing events—where style, elegance, and a touch of fun come together. “I love the theatre of it all—getting dressed up, embracing the glamour, and just playing ‘ladies’ for a day,” she says.

This blend of experience—both as a model and a photographer—gives Kelly a unique perspective. She knows what it feels like to be in front of the camera, and that empathy helps her guide clients with confidence, warmth, and authenticity.