Meet Carrie O’Brien of Columbus

Today we’d like to introduce you to Carrie O’Brien.

Hi Carrie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey as a photographer and creative began at my small high school, where I was one of the only students with a real interest in photography. Which ultimately meant I became the go-to person for capturing every school activity and sporting event from football to prom. While it was a big responsibility, it quickly became clear to me how much I loved it—not just the photography itself, but the opportunity to document real moments and connect with people through my lens all the while telling their stories in a very personal way.

That love for telling real stories through imagery naturally led me to photojournalism, where I discovered the power of candid & authentic photography that pulled on the viewers emotions. So in late 2013, that passion finally evolved into pursuing my photography business. While juggling school and several side jobs, I worked part-time as a photographer, slowly building my skills, filling my portfolio and making my dream a reality.

Over the years, I realized that nothing made my heart more full than photographing people on some of the most important days of their lives. That realization solidified my desire to pursue photography full-time as a photographer who shoots weddings and other major life events all year round. Today, I’m incredibly grateful and honored to say that’s exactly what I have been doing for the last 11 years. There is no greater joy for me than capturing genuine emotion, love, and connection—and I truly wouldn’t want to be doing anything else.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Like most creative paths, it hasn’t always been easy. Early on, I faced many doubts from those around me—family who wondered if photography could be a “real” career, and people who saw it more as a hobby than a life’s calling.

Other than battling the doubts and naysayers I realized that quality gear isn’t cheap, and trying to invest in the tools I needed while juggling school and other part time jobs was a constant challenge in the beginning. For a while, it felt like I was building a dream that only a few others believed in but nevertheless I persisted.

On top of all of that, finding a creative community in the new city I had just moved to took time. For the first few years, I felt like I was working in a little bubble, trying to figure everything out on my own with no-one to ask for guidance. It took patience and persistence to connect with other likeminded photographers and artists in my area—people who understood the struggles, shared the same passion, and offered support and inspiration but boy was it worth the wait. I now have the most supportive, inclusive, talented and kindest community surrounding me and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

Despite it all, I never let go of the belief that this was what I was meant to do. Working with people capturing real moments and genuine emotion—there’s nothing that brings me more joy. Looking back, every struggle only made the journey more meaningful and for that I am forever grateful.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a photojournalistic wedding and portrait photographer with an eye for emotion and authenticity. My work focuses on capturing real, emotional and unscripted moments —whether it’s during a wedding, a creative portrait session, or more recently, end-of-life sessions for pets and their families, a deeply meaningful extension of my work.

What truly sets me apart as a photographer in a big city like Columbus, Ohio is my ability to make every client feel like an old friend from the moment we meet. I’ve often had guests at weddings or events ask if I was a longtime friend of the couple prior to the wedding—because I blend in so naturally and make people feel at ease. That connection is what allows me to capture people in their most genuine moments and it’s at the heart of everything I do.

I am so proud of so many things that come with my job like bringing couples, families and clients peace and confidence with giving them beautiful and memorable photos that last a lifetime. But if I’m being honest, one of the things I’m most proud of is that those family members who doubted my dream to become a photographer at the start of my journey finally came around because they saw the talent I had all along and chose to support me until the end of their lives.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
If you’re interested in working with me for your wedding or a portrait session—whether it’s boudoir, headshots, or something creative—you can reach out through my website or connect with me on Instagram. I’d love to hear your vision and help bring it to life!

I also run a film photography focused Instagram called Grainyeyez, where I share my ongoing journey with analog film photography. I’m always accepting film donations to help me continue creating art for the sake of art—capturing life, travel, and moments around the world through the timeless medium of film.

Website: CarolineRosePhotography.org
Digital Photography Instagram: @CarolineRosePhotography
Film Photography Instagram: @GrainyEyez

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Carolinerosephotography.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolinerosephotography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarolineRoseOBrienphotography