Remembering Celina Kenyon: Celebrated Photographer and Beloved Friend Tragically Lost in San Diego Plane Crash
Carlsbad, CA — The creative world is in mourning following the heartbreaking loss of Celina Kenyon, a renowned lifestyle and music photographer, who tragically passed away in a plane crash in San Diego at the age of 36. Known for her warm spirit, visionary artistry, and ability to capture life’s most intimate and powerful moments, Celina’s untimely death has left a profound void in the hearts of her family, friends, and the countless individuals her work touched.
Celina, a resident of Carlsbad, had built an extraordinary career as a visual storyteller. With a camera in hand and a soul rooted in empathy and passion, she was widely admired for her ability to capture raw emotion — from the thrill of live concerts to the quiet beauty of candid human connection. Her work appeared in numerous national publications, album covers, and commercial campaigns, but more than anything, it lived in the cherished memories and portraits of the people she photographed.
Whether on set or behind the scenes, Celina was known for making her subjects feel seen, valued, and comfortable — turning even the most camera-shy individuals into confident portraits of self-expression.
“She had this rare gift of finding the beauty in the ordinary,” said one longtime client and friend. “Every photo she took told a story. It was never just a picture. It was a feeling, a memory, something deeply personal.”
Her work with musicians was particularly notable. Over the past decade, Celina developed a reputation within the music industry as a trusted and sought-after photographer who understood the rhythm and emotion behind the music she captured. Bands and solo artists alike credited her with helping define their visual identities — not just through stylized portraits, but through the authenticity that she brought to every frame.
Colleagues from both the commercial and editorial spheres remember Celina not only for her artistic talent but for her incredible generosity. She mentored aspiring photographers, shared resources freely, and always took the time to uplift others, especially women and underrepresented voices in the creative industries.
“Celina had a heart bigger than her lens,” another friend shared. “She was constantly rooting for others, whether you were a friend, a client, or someone just starting out in the industry.”
In Carlsbad, where she lived and worked, Celina was known as a compassionate neighbor and active member of the local arts community. Friends recall beach days, shared coffee chats, and spontaneous photo walks that turned into deep conversations and creative breakthroughs. She had a love for life’s small moments and a quiet wisdom that grounded everyone around her.
The details of the San Diego plane crash that claimed her life are still being investigated by local authorities and the FAA. The tragedy has shaken the Southern California creative community, with many expressing shock and sadness across social media and organizing virtual tributes in her honor.
A public memorial service and gallery exhibit celebrating Celina’s life and body of work is being planned in the coming weeks. Her family has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to organizations that support emerging women photographers or mental health resources for artists — causes Celina deeply cared about.
As we remember Celina Kenyon, we hold onto the joy she gave so freely through her lens — the laughter she captured, the vulnerability she honored, and the humanity she celebrated with every click of the shutter.
Her spirit lives on not just in her photographs, but in the hearts of those she inspired.
Rest in peace, Celina. Your light, your art, and your soul will never be forgotten.