Top Reasons You Should Hire a Photographer During Your Maui Vacation

Are you planning a trip to the breathtaking island of Maui? I hope so! 🌴🌈🍧

As you prepare to embark on your Hawaiian adventure, there's one essential aspect you shouldn't overlook – capturing the unforgettable moments of your vacation. While smartphones are convenient for snapping quick photos, nothing quite compares to the expertise and creativity of a professional Maui photographer. There's something truly special about professional photography, especially when it comes to capturing moments with young children, babies, and toddlers. In this post, we'll explore the top reasons why booking a photographer during your Maui vacation is an absolute must - and hopefully it’s with me, Amanda Emmes 😉

Here are the top reasons why hiring a photographer on your Maui vacation will elevate your experience to new heights:

Preserve Precious Memories: As a parent, you know all too well how quickly children grow and change. One moment they're crawling on the sand, and the next they're running along the shoreline. By hiring a professional photographer, you can freeze these fleeting moments in time, preserving them for years to come. Imagine being able to look back on these photos years down the line and relive the joy and wonder of your Maui vacation.

High-Quality Images: Professional photographers invest in top-of-the-line equipment and possess the technical skills to produce high-resolution images with exceptional clarity and detail. While smartphone cameras have come a long way, they simply can't compete with the quality and clarity of images captured by a professional photographer using high-end equipment. Whether you're posing against a dramatic sunset or diving into the crystal-clear waters, you can trust that your photographer will deliver stunning photographs that you'll cherish for years to come. You can expect crisp, vibrant images that truly capture the essence of your Maui vacation.

Expertise in Capturing Children's Authenticity: Photographing young children, babies, and toddlers requires a special skill set. Professional family photographers have a genuine way of connecting with children, putting them at ease, and capturing their true personalities. From spontaneous giggles to curious expressions, you can rest assure that your photographer will how to capture those authentic moments that make your family's vacation truly memorable.

Stunning Backdrops of Maui: One of the unique advantages of booking a photographer for your Maui vacation is the stunning natural beauty of the island itself. Whether it's the stunning cliffs in Kapalua, the lush greenery of one of Maui’s jungles, or the breathtaking sunsets at any of South Maui’s pristine beaches, Maui offers an endless array of picturesque backdrops for your family photoshoot. You can rest assured that every backdrop will be expertly utilized to create stunning images that you'll treasure forever.

Stress-Free Experience: Planning a vacation with young children can be stressful enough without having to worry about capturing the perfect photo moments. By entrusting your family photoshoot to a photographer, you can relax and enjoy your vacation knowing that every precious moment is being expertly captured. From scheduling the shoot to selecting the perfect location, they’ll handle all the details, allowing you to focus on making memories with your loved ones. Now, you can relinquish the responsibility of taking photos and focus on enjoying every moment of your Maui getaway, knowing that your memories are in capable hands. Plus, Mamas…you need to be in photos, too!

Creative Vision: Professional photographers possess a keen eye for composition, lighting, and storytelling. Whether you're seeking candid shots that capture the spontaneity of your adventures or posed portraits that exude elegance and charm, your photographer will transform your vision into captivating images that tell the story of your Maui vacation.

Local Insights and Recommendations: Beyond their photography expertise, Maui-based photographers often double as unofficial tour guides, offering valuable insights and recommendations to enhance your vacation experience. From the best spots to watch the sunrise to hidden culinary gems serving authentic Hawaiian cuisine, your photographer can help you uncover the island's hidden treasures.

So, have I convinced you yet? Hiring a photographer on your Maui vacation is an investment in preserving and celebrating the memories you create in paradise! From expertly curated photo sessions to personalized guidance and stunning imagery, the benefits of working with a professional photographer extends far beyond the duration of your trip. So, why settle for fleeting snapshots when you can capture the magic of Maui in timeless photographs?

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If you’d like to learn more about my Land & Ocean Sessions, I’d love to hear from you! Let’s plan the perfect, adventurous session for you & yours 💕 Reach out HERE!

When to Schedule a Maternity Photo Session in Maui

The timing of your Maui maternity photo shoot (on land or in the water) is critical - especially during your babymoon in Hawaii…

Schedule it too early, your baby bump will not be as visible and won’t take as prominent of a role in the photos. Alternatively, if you schedule your maternity shoot after the 34 week mark, you might be dealing with swelling, aches and pains, and generally feel like a photo shoot is too much work!

EVERY WOMAN IS DIFFERENT…SO LISTEN TO YOUR BODY, SEE HOW IT’S CHANGING, AND MAKE THE BEST DECISION FOR YOU.

Some women are showing earlier in their pregnancy, so booking a shoot near the 6 month mark may work great! Plus you’ll be more mobile, adventurous, show less fatigue, and generally, happier and more comfortable. And trust me, you’ll want to be mobile during your time here in the islands ;-)

In general though, the best time to schedule a maternity session during your baby moon is typically anywhere between 26-34 weeks, or at the 7 to almost 8 month mark, when your bump is big enough to be seen, and you’re still in your comfortable zone.

At this point in your pregnancy, your baby will not have started to move downward - that means you’ll have a higher tummy that looks much better in a portrait than after the baby has started to move its way lower in your body. In the third trimester, your belly will be just the right size - big and beautiful, but not so big that it’s difficult for you to move around, change positions, swim, and pose for the camera.

DREAMING OF AN UNDERWATER MATERNITY SESSION IN MAUI, HAWAII?

THE EARLIER IN YOUR PREGNANCY, THE BETTER!

Think about it - you, the ocean, a dress/bikini, your growing bump, and Mother Nature - it’s a lot to manage! What we really want to avoid is you performing a water birth during our session (I’m SO serious) - so be sure to time our session when you’re not too far along and your tummy is still in it’s “floatation device” stage (usually no more than 7.5 months max).

If your tummy is too heavy, it’ll feel like a weight in the water, and that’s no fun for anyone ;-) I’ll be with you every step of the way, so rest assure that I’ll do the managing - you just show up feeling & looking your best (and lightest!) .

Salt water is super buoyant, but there are currents, sometimes waves, and you may need to tread water if you really want some of the deep, underwater shots (like the ones above + below). Fabrics like chiffon and tulle do really well in the water and look amazing when you can get them to float just right - so plan accordingly to make your time in the water, as effortless as possible.

See some wardrobe tips from my blog on “Planning your Wardrobe for Your Maternity Session”.

My biggest advice? Don’t wait until the last minute to schedule your photo shoot! Plan ahead with your photographer and get on their calendar well in advance - especially if you’re in the process of planning your Maui BabyMoon. Trust me…it’s worth it!

Maui Maternity Love + 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!

Maui Maternity Photos on Land & In the Ocean

In search of beauty, uniqueness, and someone to truly capture “them”, Mary + Bart (and their bump full of twins!) waltzed into my life in 2020. On the agenda? A Land + Ocean Session at Sunset…

At 27 weeks, Mary was feeling like a million bucks, and the two dresses she chose for each portion of her session were drop dead gorgeous! Did I mention these two couldn’t wait to get into the ocean? I swear, it wasn’t because it was hot + humid 😉

I like to get to know my clients before, during, and in the moment, at my sessions; so when Mary + Bart told me they’d been practicing their swimming for this session, I was so excited to see what they had in store (especially Bart). And seriously, Bart if you’re reading this, I’m STILL so in awe of your skills! Mary - you’re full of grace, patience, and absolute beauty - you’re a complete natural as well!

Some of my favorites from our evening together…

Hair + MUA: Melissa from Maui Makeup Artistry

#1 Reason You Should Have Your BabyMoon on Maui

LEMME GUESS…

A) You just found out you’re pregnant (yay!)

B) You’re currently pregnant and JUST started thinking about a baby moon trip..

C) Or, you’re about to pop and haven’t even thought about a baby moon until RIGHT. THIS. MOMENT.

Well…let me help you make one of the most important decisions of your pregnancy! Whether it’s your 1st, 2nd, or 5th child, every pregnancy is special and deserves to be in the spotlight…especially during your baby moon to Maui!

SO WHAT’S THE #1 REASON YOU SHOULD HAVE YOUR BABY MOON ON MAUI YOU ASK???

TO HAVE THE MOST ADVENTUROUS, AUTHENTIC & FUN LAND/OCEAN MATERNITY SESSION WITH ME OF COURSE!!!

So let’s get this process started shall we?

STEP 1) Book a flight to Hawaii! Any island is gorgeous, and they’re all ridiculously magical & full of images of paradise you’ve only dreamed of. But Amanda…we’re kind of in the middle of a global pandemic…are you nuts?!? By nature, yes 🙃 but I’m not talking about now! I’m talking about planning for your future, especially if timing lines up right for you & yours and it’s anytime after June 2020 (maybe later, I’m just being optimistic)! Obviously travel is restricted right now, but that shouldn’t stop you from thinking into the future and reserving those dates!

STEP 2) BUT!!! You should know I’m located on the Island of Maui, so keep your costs down and come here for a visit, book a Maui maternity photo session with me, and instead, invest those pesky travel fees to other islands into your child’s future college fund! Maui is totally worth a visit, even if it’s only for a few days (and even if it’s only to see me!), so if it’s the latter, I can guarantee it’ll be even MORE worth it!

STEP 3) Let’s talk about a Land or Ocean session (or BOTH!), capturing your growing bump & love for one another! The water here is practically as warm and cozy as a nice warm bath, so consider having your session in the ocean - it’s fun and the results? STUNNING and unlike anything you’ve ever seen before!

STEP 4) Let’s get you locked in, discuss wardrobe, hair, makeup, location, and all those other fun things us gals can’t get enough of. Plus, we’ve got plenty of time to get to know each other via text, email, phone, whatever you prefer. I’m all yours and here to assist in planning for your session in any + every way possible!

And these photos below? From a beautiful growing family that scheduled a VERY last minute maternity session on land + in the ocean✨

Majestic Hawaiian Maternity Photos

WHO: ASHLEY + COLIN | WHERE: MAUI, HAWAII | WHY: MATERNITY/BABYMOON SESSION

What’s your favorite place to escape to? What about for your baby moon? For many, it’s Maui, Hawaii, and for good reason!

Visiting Maui or the Hawaiian Islands in general, for the first time is magical…am I right? But when it’s your first time to Maui AND your first pregnancy?!? Wow. Combine that with a maternity photo session (with me) on one of Maui’s gorgeous beaches? Consider your minds blown!!!

Living here has it’s plethora of benefits…but when I get to meet clients who are just in awe of every corner they turn WHILE beaming from ear to ear because they’re expecting? I’m speechless every time!

So when I met Ashley & Colin, they were as laid-back, adorable, and majestic as they come. Not only was their love for each other so obvious it could break a lens…their sense of adventure with one another was one for the books - and blogs (ahem…).

And ladies…take note on her dresses - they just FLOW! And believe me when I tell you, the more they flow, the better! ;-)

FYI her blue dress is from Free People…

Oahu Ocean Maternity Adventures

Weather reports across the Hawaiian Islands were going bonkers. Tropical Storms or Hurricanes? How many are to the North and South? Will they miss us? Luckily they both did, and simultaneously (phew)! But not without gifting us with some turbulent, milky waters, and lots of cloudy skies and rain showers.

Insert Vivian & Louis. 30 weeks pregnant and as adorable as ever…vacationing on Oahu. They found my underwater Maui maternity photos so breathtaking, that they just had to fly me over to Oahu to capture these once-in-a-lifetime photos…so off I went!

I swear, my full-time job isn’t being a Photographer - it’s being a Weathergal! The amount of time I spend checking the weather, analyzing ocean conditions, wind & sun direction, is just bananas! It’s part of my job, and my life as a surfer. But when it comes to working around Mother Nature for scheduled maternity photo sessions? I should seriously start my own reporting station! (Past clients…you know this and thank you all for sticking through the “storms” that may or may not have happened. You all rock!).

Shoot time: Sunrise.

Forecast: Ocean conditions: Murky all over the island, NSEW. Currents: Even more bananas. Swell: 5-7 ft faces. Weather: 60% chance of rain.

Actual Session Conditions: Ocean: Murky & 2-5 ft. Currents: Still bananas. Weather: 0% chance of rain.

So what did we do? Shot at my favorite North Shore Oahu location for the land portion, then travelled 10 minutes to another location for calmer waters & stunning backdrops. The result?

This.

Mahalo Vivian & Louis - you two were beyond “great” xo

The Most Beautiful Maui Babymoon Portraits

WHO: Sarah + Kuali’i | WHERE: Lahaina, Hawaii | WHY: 7 month Maternity Shoot

First off…I just LOVE underwater Maui maternity sessions! They literally feed my soul - they honestly and wholeheartedly “complete me” <3

So when I met Sarah & Kuali’i via Instagram, I just knew that our session was going to completely rock the casbah for so many reasons…

We started on land as all my MAKAI Land & Ocean sessions do, then we slowly worked our way into, then under the water, because the clarity was THAT good at Sunset!

Thankfully they both were even more experienced in the water than we had initially discussed (to book my water sessions, it’s a “must” that my clients are experienced to expert swimmers. Hawaiian oceans are no joke!). Kua, who is originally from Maui, also paddled for Hawaiian Canoe Club like myself, so naturally, we had ALOT of mutual friends and tons of experience with the ocean and it’s conditions. Sarah is a beautifully talented dancer and hair/makeup artist, so believe me when I say, this girl worked it in the water! Her toes? ALWAYS POINTED 😉. Her swimming abilities? Flawless.

The finished product was exactly what I had hoped for and so much more. See for yourself…