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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!
Top Five Child-Friendly Maui Family Activities
Maui Magic For Little Ones: Top 5 Child-Friendly Maui Family Activities
Are you planning a family vacation to the Island of Maui with your little ones in tow? From pristine beaches to lush rainforests, Maui offers a TON of experiences that are perfect for families with babies & toddlers. As a parent and professional Maui family photographer, I understand the importance of creating unforgettable memories with your little adventurers…so let’s get started on some of my best recommendations! 👣
Here are my personal Top 5 child-friendly activities on Maui:
Maluaka Beach - Maui, HI
Beach Day Extravaganza
Maui is renowned for its stunning beaches with powdery sands and friendly waters, making it an ideal playground for your little beachcombers. Pack a beach bag with essentials like sunscreen, hats, towels, and plenty of snacks, and head to family-friendly beaches like Baby Beach at Baldwin Beach (on Maui’s North Shore). Just be sure to go early to avoid the higher winds that typically frequent the area!; Airport Beach in Ka’anapali near the Westin KOR; Kamaole Beach Park (1, 2 or 3) in Kihei, or Maluaka Beach in Wailea area. Let your little ones splash in the gentle waves, build lots of sandcastles, and explore tide pools teeming with marine life.
Oh…and don't forget to capture those precious moments with a family photo session against the backdrop of Maui's breathtaking coastline 😉
Dive into an underwater wonderland at the Maui Ocean Center, where your littles can marvel at Hawaii’s vibrant marine life without getting wet. From beautiful jellyfish exhibits to interactive touch pools, to the coolest underwater tunnel in the Islands - there's something to captivate every curious mind - even you Mom & Dad. Be sure to check the center's schedule for daily feedings and educational presentations tailored to young audiences. There’s also a cute little playground for your littles AND a café right next door that has some yummy food, snacks (and plenty of ice cream!). Who doesn’t like lots of ice cream?! 🍦
Bonus: They have free mineral sunblock stations all around the park, so you & your littles won’t be kissed too much by Maui’s strong sunshine!
Surfing Goat Dairy
Upcountry Farm Adventures
Escape the coastal crowds and travel Upcountry for an unforgettable farm adventure! Visit family-friendly farms like Surfing Goat Dairy or Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm, where little ones can pet friendly animals, explore fragrant lavender fields, and savor delicious farm-fresh treats and local delights. Don't miss the opportunity to capture adorable moments of your little farmers frolicking amidst the lush countryside, surrounded by panoramic views of Maui's majestic landscapes. Don’t forget to bring some warm clothing, too. Upcountry has a climate alllll it’s own, and it’s usually a bit chilly!
Step into a lush oasis at the Maui Tropical Plantation, where families can enjoy a leisurely tram tour through exotic fruit orchards and fragrant botanical gardens. Little ones will be enchanted by the sights and scents of mango groves, pineapple fields, and coconut palms. After the tour, explore the plantation's family-friendly attractions, including a coconut husking demonstration, zip line adventure, and artisanal shops offering locally made souvenirs and treats. You can also buy duck food at the General Store to feed the ducks at the pond - it’s sure to create some adorable memories! Be sure to bring baby wipes to clean up afterwards 🙃
Nestled in the lush valleys of Maui, Hawaii, lies the breathtaking Iao Valley, a sanctuary of natural beauty and cultural significance. While many tourists flock to Maui's beaches, venturing into the heart of the island unveils a different kind of magic. Venture deep into the valley and be greeted by the sight of the iconic Iao Needle, a towering volcanic spire shrouded in mist and legend. You’re treated to sweeping vistas of lush rainforest, cascading waterfalls in every direction, and the winding path of the Iao Stream. It's a sight that will leave you speechless, a testament to the raw beauty of Maui's natural landscape. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a nature enthusiast, this enchanting destination offers something for everyone! *Make Reservations HERE before you go!
Maui offers a wealth of child-friendly activities that cater to the unique interests and energy levels of babies and toddlers. Whether you're splashing in the waves, exploring farmyard fun, or marveling at marine wonders, the memories you create together will be sure to last a lifetime.
If you’d like to learn more about my Maui Family Photo Sessions, I’d love to hear from you! Let’s plan the perfect, adventurous session for you & yours 💕 Reach out HERE!
Top Reasons You Should Hire a Photographer During Your Maui Vacation
Top Reasons Why Hiring a Photographer During Your Maui Vacation Is Totally Worth it
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?
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!
#1 Reason You Should Have Your BabyMoon on Maui
#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
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 on one of Maui’s gorgeous beaches? Consider your minds blown!!!
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…
Golden Maui Maternity Portraits
Ever wonder where those who used to live on Maui, go on vacation or for their baby moon? Yup…still Maui!
WHO: MELODY + JEFF | WHERE: WAILEA, MAUI, HAWAII | WHY: BABYMOON
Ever wonder where those who used to live on Maui, go on vacation or for their babymoon? Yup…still Maui!
Enter Melody + Jeff. Two lovebirds who currently live on the West Coast and fell in love after years of working together with children. If that isn’t a qualification for an “already awesome parents” award, I don’t know what is!
Melody is originally from Maui, but hadn’t been back for a visit for quite some time (and I mean QUITE some time!). So for these two, it was almost as if it was their first time all over again. But this time…it was for their very first baby moon - and they were just “over-the-moon”!
To say our time together during their Maui maternity portraits wasn’t well spent, would be a lie. I had a blast - even when the ocean decided to creep up on us a few times unexpectedly! Thank you both for being so genuinely you & letting down your guards on your first professional Maui photo session ever! You’re both naturals and I can’t wait to meet your little one next year <3
Gorgeous Haku Crown by: @Petite.Maui
The Most Beautiful Maui Babymoon Portraits
First off…I just LOVE underwater maternity sessions here in Maui, Hawaii! They literally feed my soul - they honestly and wholeheartedly “complete me” <3
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…
