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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!
The ONE Maui Vacation Experience You’ll Regret Skipping
The One Maui Vacation Experience You’ll Regret Skipping
Don’t Just Take Home Memories - Bring Them to Life with a Maui Portrait Session
Your Maui vacation is more than just a getaway, it’s a one-in-a-lifetime experience filled with breathtaking landscapes, warm ocean breezes, time to do nothing (and everything), and unforgettable moments with the people you love. But here’s the truth: photos taken on your phone can never fully capture the magic of being in paradise. That’s why a professional portrait session with a Maui Photographer is the one experience you’ll regret skipping. And let’s be even more honest, not having a session with ME is even more regretful! 😉
Sunset Mini-Session on Maui’s North Shore
Why a Maui Portrait Session Is the Ultimate Souvenir
Unlike t-shirts and keychains that gather dust, professional portraits last forever, transporting you back to those golden Maui beaches, lush tropical forests, and vibrant blue waters of Hawaii every time you look at them. I specialize in capturing stunning land and ocean portraits, giving you a unique keepsake that stands out from the typical vacation snapshots. If you think the beaches here in Maui are gorgeous, wait until you see what’s under the ocean!
Ocean & Land: Choose Your Perfect Backdrop
One of the best parts of booking with me? You get to choose between (or combine!) two incredible sessions for your session:
🌊Ocean Portraits: Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters of Maui, with stunning underwater and shoreline shots that make you look like you stepped out of a dream. Imagine floating effortlessly in warm waters while I capture the sun’s golden glow reflecting off the waves and you with your loved one actually living the dream.
🏝️Land Portraits: From lush rainforests to sun-kissed beaches, Maui’s landscapes create the perfect setting for intimate family moments, romantic couple shots, and breathtaking maternity sessions. Every session is tailored to showcase your unique story in paradise.
Underwater Maui Maternity Photo Magic at Sunset
Maui’s Summer Magic Won’t Last Forever!
Summer in Maui is the best time for portraits. Longer days, golden sunsets, and the warmest ocean temperatures of the year. Did I mention less rain? But here’s the catch - my availability is limited in summer and summer sessions book up fast - especially in July! Please don’t wait until it’s too late to secure your spot!
Affordable For Everyone - Capture Your Story Without Breaking the Bank
Think a professional Maui portrait session is out of reach? Think again! I offer a variety of packages, including affordable mini-sessions on Maui’s North Shore, making it easier than ever to invest in lasting memories. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, a honeymoon, or simply want to freeze this moment in time, there’s a package that fits your budget.
Ready to Make Your Maui Memories Last Forever?
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!
If you’d like to learn more about my Maui Couples, Maternity and Family Photo Sessions, I’d love to hear from you! Let’s plan the perfect, adventurous session for you & yours 💕 Reach out HERE!