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Five Mistakes to Avoid During Your Maui Ocean Photography Session
Five Mistakes to Avoid During Your Maui Ocean Photo Session
Summer is right around the corner, and that means warmer waters on Maui! If you’re planning an ocean portrait session in Hawaii trust me when I tell you, it’s an unforgettable experience! Whether you’re celebrating love, maternity, or simply capturing the magic of your Hawaiian getaway, a water session is a must - especially if you’re looking for something unique.
However, without the right preparation, even the most stunning locations and perfect waves won’t guarantee flawless photos. To help you get the most out of your session, here are five common mistakes to avoid, plus expert tips from Maui couples and maternity photographer, Amanda Emmes (me!).
#1 Wearing the Wrong Fabrics
Why It’s a Mistake: Not all fabrics flow beautifully underwater! Some materials become heavy, cling awkwardly, or lose their shape once wet, making it challenging to achieve that effortless, ethereal look in your portraits.
What to Do Instead: Opt for light, flowing fabrics like chiffon, tulle, or silk that move beautifully in the water. Avoid thick cotton, denim, or heavy lace, which can become uncomfortable when soaked. Maternity clients should consider dresses with sheer layers to create dreamy, weightless effects in their images.
#2 Skipping Waterproof Makeup 🦝
Why It’s a Mistake: Regular makeup will smudge, run, and disappear in the water, leaving you with raccoon eyes or an uneven complexion.
What to Do Instead: Use waterproof mascara, long-wear foundation, and setting spray to keep your look intact. Many clients also choose a natural, dewy glow for their session, embracing the fresh, ocean-kissed aesthetic with minimal makeup.
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💦 Shop My Favorite Waterproof Beauty Products! 💦 I’ve curated a list of my go-to waterproof products, from smudge-proof makeup to frizz-fighting hair essentials. Visit my Amazon store HERE to shop my recommendations!
#3 🫧Forgetting to Practice Breath Control🫧
Why It’s a Mistake: If you’re planning underwater shots or even partial submersion poses, not being comfortable in the water can lead to stiff expressions or discomfort in your photos.
What to Do Instead: Spend some time practicing slow, controlled breaths before your session. If you’re nervous, start by submerging your face in shallow water and gradually getting comfortable. And don’t worry, I’m super patient and guide my clients through the process every step of the way, ensuring a relaxed and fun experience in the ocean. Need to take a few breaks? That’s totally fine - just know that it will take away from our shooting time in the water 😉
#4 Choosing The Wrong Time of Day
Why It’s a Mistake: Many underwater photographers choose to shoot at varying times of day so be sure to discuss the “look” you’d like your photos to have before booking with just any underwater portrait photographer. Midday sessions can mean harsh lighting, strong reflections, choppier waves, and unflattering lighting on your face/body (yes, even underwater).
What to Do Instead: Book your session during sunrise or sunset for the best lighting conditions. Golden hour provides warm, dreamy light, while early morning shoots offer calm, crystal-clear waters. My expertise in timing ensures that every couple and maternity client gets the best natural lighting for their session on land AND in the ocean.
#5 Not Trusting Your Maui Photographer’s Direction
Why It’s a Mistake: Many clients feel self-conscious about being in the water, worrying about how they’ll look or whether they’re “doing it right”. Overthinking can lead to stiff, unnatural poses.
What to Do Instead: Relax and trust your photographer! I have years of experience capturing couples, individuals & maternity sessions in Maui’s waters. I’ll always be there to guide you through natural movements, helping you feel comfortable, confident, and radiant. The best photos come when you let go, embrace the moment, and enjoy the experience.
BONUS TIP: BOOK EARLY! MAUI’S SUMMER SESSIONS FILL FAST!
Don’t let your vacation fade into just another set of phone photos. Book your family, maternity or couples session with me today and take home a truly priceless souvenir: stunning, professional portraits that capture the magic of Maui (and you!).
🗓️ Spots are filling fast. Secure yours now!
Maui Maternity Love + Laughter
When Ryan first contacted me about a maternity session on Maui for her and her husband Dan, I could immediately tell they were a match made in laughter…
When Ryan first contacted me about a Maui maternity session for her and her husband Dan, I could immediately tell they were a match made in laughter…
Maybe it was the way she answered her Questionnaire, or maybe it’s because I started following them both on Instagram and adored the way they entertained each other; whatever it was…I was SO right! (Go me!)
From the parking lot, to the beach, then to the ocean, they made it really hard for me keep my camera focused b/c they couldn’t resist being so cute with one another. And the conversations we had together were even more great! Can we say “flooooowing”?! If these two lived on Maui, I would totally adopt them as friends!
Top 3 things I love about these two:
1) Even after almost 10 years, they STILL flirt as if it’s Day 1
2) They’re practically fish in the water 🐟
3) Their amazing hair!
So Ryan + Dan, thank you for bring along your whits, your love, your bump, and your all around awesomeness. I can’t wait to see the three of you again!
