Kvasnyuk Family Photoshoot at Crystal Cove State Park, Newport Beach, CA.


There are times in life when things just click into place. Sometimes it's because we've grown and matured, and other times it's something beyond our understanding. Either way, it's a good feeling. This clarity hit me during a family beach photoshoot in Newport Beach, and I believe it was because of my growth.


I've known Simon for many years. He was always a quiet, kind kid who was a bit younger than me. We weren't super close, but our families knew each other well. As we grew up, we went our separate ways and lost touch. We briefly reconnected in 2008 but then lost contact again. However, last summer, out of the blue, Simon visited with his daughter, spending a day with my family by the pool. A few months later, he surprised us with another visit. Whenever Simon and his wife Elena visited, we had a great time. We'd share wine, enjoy Megan's delicious food, and talk about everything. Each visit lasted for hours, filled with good vibes as we shared our thoughts on various topics. Despite our differences, Simon and I got along well. Our views didn't clash; instead, there was a sense of love and respect.


These visits led to some of the best professional family pictures I've ever taken. I'm not sure if it was the beautiful setting at Crystal Cove State Park, the genuine smiles and laughter we captured, or my skills as a photographer. In the end, it doesn't really matter why. What matters is the wonderful family beach pictures we created.

Simon, Elena, and their daughter laughing together during a family beach photoshoot
Portrait of a Ukrainian family at Crystal Cove State park taken by OC photographer Venya Manzyuk.
A heartwarming family portrait on the beach, with Simon, Elena, and their daughter embracing.
Elena and Simon sharing a tender moment, with their daughter playfully hugging.
A cozy shot of Elena and Simon wrapped in a warm embrace, looking out over the ocean with content expressions.
Simon and Elena holding each other close, their eyes locked in a moment of deep connection.
Lady in red got her dress wet in the ocean during a family photoshoot in Crystal Cove.
Woman in a red dress walking backwards looking seductively at the photographer in Newport.