Oahu Portrait Photographer

New Blog featuring Hawaii Family and Engagement Portraits

2010-04-14T13:40:00.000-07:00

Please visit my new blog here!

Child and Family Portraits: Waikiki

2010-04-07T00:04:00.000-07:00

Jessie's Senior Portraits: Waikiki, Oahu

2010-03-14T17:38:00.000-07:00

Engagement Session at Kahala Beach, Oahu

2010-03-05T22:07:00.001-08:00

View more photos of this e-session on our facebook page.

Honeymoon Portraits: Lanikai Beach, Oahu

2010-02-16T22:49:00.000-08:00

This couple's parents had their pictures taken by us when they vacationed in Kailua last year. They loved their photos so they gifted their son and daughter-in-law with a honeymoon portrait session and a photo book. What a thoughtful gift!

Honolulu Senior Portraits: Hilton Beach

2010-01-28T11:04:00.000-08:00

Anna and her family visited Hawaii recently and Anna had her senior pictures taken at the Hilton Hawaiian Village where the family was staying. They opted for the celebration package because they also wanted a few family portraits on the beach. Anna loves her photos and is having a tough time deciding which one to use for her senior picture!

Hawaii Family Photography: Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach

2010-01-22T12:12:00.000-08:00

On-location Family Photography: Honolulu

2010-01-14T00:15:00.000-08:00

Hawaii Engagement Photos: Special Offers

2010-01-05T18:12:00.000-08:00

To celebrate the engagement season, we are offering two photo specials.

* Mini engagement session for $99 for kama'aina couples planning a wedding on Oahu! Kama'aina (Hawaii resident) offer is valid from now through February 16, 2010. The package includes 35 minutes of photography in Honolulu or Kailua and a disc of high-resolution images with copyright release. Travel fee for North Shore, Ko'olina and Waianae Coast locations.

* Book any of our Oahu Wedding Photo packages now through Valentines Day and receive 30 minutes of complimentary photo coverage. This offer is valid for kama'aina and destination wedding couples. Special offers are valid for new bookings only.

On-location Portraits: Kaneohe, Oahu

2009-12-27T00:59:00.000-08:00

This girl had some professional photographs taken to give to her boyfriend as a Christmas presents. Her boyfriend was leaving Hawaii for a few months, so this was the perfect gift! She likes flowers so she opted for a garden setting.

Senior Portrait Hawaii: Boys II

2009-12-20T00:28:00.001-08:00

Senior Portrait Hawaii: Beach Boys

2009-12-11T15:27:00.000-08:00

I took senior pictures of some boys recently. I'll post a few of their pictures in the next couple of posts.

Hawaii Holiday Portraits

2009-11-29T16:28:00.000-08:00

View more Holiday portraits of this beautiful family on our facebook page.

Family Portraits: Honolulu

2009-11-25T15:31:00.001-08:00

This was one of the families that took advantage of our $125 Holiday Portrait Special. Due to popular demand, we have extended the deadline for this offer until December 9, 2009.

Go Warriors!

Iolani School Spokesmodel Rachael '10 - Part II

2009-11-15T16:13:00.000-08:00

A few more images of our gorgeous senior portrait spokesmodel Rachael. To see more on-location/outdoor senior pictures, visit Senior Portrait Hawaii or our facebook page.

Hawaii Marine Corps Ball, Hale Koa Hotel - Honolulu

2009-11-12T11:40:00.000-08:00

We are looking forward to photographing the Hawaii Marine Corps Ball at the Hale Koa Hotel this evening. My husband and I enjoy meeting the amazing men and women serving in the military and their families. We are so appreciative of their service and the sacrifices that their families make for us. Thank you for inviting us to be the official photographers for the Marine Corps Ball again this year, and thank you for all you do for our country.

Hawaii Family Photography: Holiday Portraits on the Beach

2009-11-07T21:52:00.000-08:00

This family was in Waikiki for a convention and wanted to have their Holiday portraits taken in Hawaii. They woke up early for a sunrise session but baby was sleepy (so was I!) and fell asleep toward the end of the photo session. Baby had just learned to smile, but hey, who feels like smiling when you're sleepy!

Free Shipping on Holiday Cards Until Nov. 30, 2009

2009-11-04T15:39:00.000-08:00

We are offering free shipping until the end of the month on our beautiful Holiday greeting cards. Use code AFSHIP09 - contact us for more information. Check out the Minibooks above! Minibooks are $87 for 15 pieces. Other card designs, starting at $2/card, and matching address labels are also available.

And don't forget to schedule your family or staff portrait session! Get a beautiful picture taken for your beautiful card!

Hawaii Children's Photography

2009-11-01T01:06:00.000-07:00

Children are on my mind on this beautiful Halloween night. I love capturing kids being kids. Enjoy the photos of these three siblings hanging out on the beach.

Marissa's Senior Portraits in Honolulu

2009-10-24T15:56:00.000-07:00

Congratulations, Marissa, and good luck in college!

Holiday Cards and Family Portraits Offer

2009-10-19T22:46:00.000-07:00

Place your order for Holiday cards before November 1, 2009 and receive a 10% discount on cards. Lots of beautiful designs available. Please contact us for more information and the discount code.

Also, don't forget to take advantage of our Holiday Portrait Special: only $125 for a minimum of 15 images on a disc. Family portrait offer ends on November 20.

Koolina Beach Family Photography

2009-10-13T17:05:00.000-07:00

This family stayed at the Koolina Beach Villas on Oahu and requested professional photos to celebrate the little girl's third birthday and her parent's wedding anniversary. The birthday girl entertained everyone with a hula dance! The family vacation included a cruise around the Hawaiian Islands.

Hawaii Holiday Card Portraits: Special Offer

2009-10-05T12:53:00.000-07:00

Up to 30 minutes of photography and 15 images on a disc with copyright release for $125 (tax included). You can take the disc and get your Holiday cards made at your local photo lab or drug store, OR, you can select from over 50 beautiful designs (see samples) and conveniently order online.

Holiday portrait session terms and conditions:
Offer is valid for new bookings
available for sessions in Kailua or Honolulu
October 17 to November 20
families of up to five members (pets are counted as family members!)

Our Holiday cards start at $2 per card (minimum order of 50) and offers customization options. Select from our signature paper (soft, matte cotton texture usually found only in fine stationery. 120 lb., 15.5 point thickness), premium 100 percent recycled paper or pearlescent paper which is perfect for Holiday cards (subtle shimmer finish and rich look to cards, adds a soft glow to photographs, for the ultimate in elegance. 98 lb., 12 point thickness).

Don't wait - the Holidays will be here before you know it! This is our best offer of the year.

Kahala Senior Portraits and Family Photos

2009-09-28T20:09:00.000-07:00

Drew had his senior pictures taken while vacationing at his childhood home, Oahu, with his mom. Mom also wanted some pictures with her son. Like many teenage boys, Drew wasn't too keen on the idea of a photo shoot, but he had agreed to do it for his mom. So sweet! Drew loves the ocean and enjoys surfing. Drew, we hope you a wonderful senior year!

Hawaii Honeymoon: Beach Portraits

2009-09-24T13:53:00.000-07:00

This couple left their kids with the grandparents and flew to Oahu to celebrate their anniversary and a second honeymoon. They said that although it was relaxing and romantic, they missed their children more than ever. Even during the photo shoot, the kids called and mom and dad looked a little sad. On the next trip, they plan to bring the kids and do a family photo shoot.

Kailua Beach Family Photography

2009-09-18T12:21:00.000-07:00

It was a busy summer for family portraits (and weddings!) so I'm still catching up on blogging. This family from Kansas stayed with friends in Kailua and had their pictures taken at Kailua Beach. They thought ahead and wanted some photos to use for their Holiday card this year. Speaking of Holiday cards, its not too early to schedule your photo session. Please check my facebook page or this blog as I will be posting a Holiday card portrait special for October and November soon.

Mom and Daughters: Kailua Beach, Oahu

2009-09-12T15:51:00.000-07:00

This was supposed to be a family photo session but unfortunately, dad had to go on a business trip at the last minute. Mom still wanted to go ahead with the session and get lots of photos of her two beautiful teenage daughters. It was a blustery day at Kailua Beach but we still managed to get plenty of nice photos of the three girls. Don't the three of them look like sisters?

Alfred Eisenstaedt: Keep it Simple

2009-09-10T16:24:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite photographers, Alfred Eisenstaedt, once said:

"We are only beginning to learn what to say in a photograph. The world we live in is a succession of fleeting moments, any one of which might say something significant. "

"It is more important to click with people than to click the shutter."

and, my favorite, "Keep it simple."

We are all familiar with his beautiful portraits of Marilyn Monroe and the photo of the sailor kissing the nurse in Times Square on V-J Day, August 14, 1945. Below are a few other photographs of his that I love. Enjoy these images by a master portrait photojournalist.

Children at the puppet theatre in Paris. Photo by Alfred Eisenstaedt

Marilyn Monroe with her husband Joe Dimaggio. Photo by Alfred Eisenstaedt

Photo by Alfred Eisenstaedt

The clock at Penn Station. Photo by Alfred Eisenstaedt.

Photo by Alfred Eisenstaedt

Ballet dancers. Photo by Alfred Eisenstaedt.

Jackie 1960. Photo by Alfred Eisenstaedt

Senior Portrait Hawaii Spokesmodel: Rachael '10

2009-09-01T15:31:00.000-07:00

Here is another one of our gorgeous and super smart spokesmodels. Rachael is representing Iolani School in Honolulu.

View more photos of Rachael on facebook.

Senior Portrait Hawaii Fall Specials

2009-08-28T14:30:00.000-07:00

Senior Portrait Hawaii, located on Oahu, is offering a Back-to-School special for senior pictures scheduled between September 10 and October 31, 2009. Receive a $100 discount on the milestone or celebration packages. Join our facebook page and receive an additional $20 discount on the milestone package or an additional $50 discount on the celebration package.

Milestone $280 - includes 1.5 hours of on-location photography
Celebration $325 - includes 2 hours of photography

Both packages include a disc of all images with photo release. This means you can make unlimited prints/enlargements/graduation invitations etc. from any photo lab at your convenience.

This lovely senior had her pictures taken at Ala Moana Beach recently. In addition to senior pictures, she wanted a few photos with her family. This is a great time to have your senior pictures done and have a family portrait included in the session.

Best Family Photographer in Honolulu!

2009-08-21T14:56:00.000-07:00

Oahu Portrait Photographer was awarded a Nickelodean Parents' Picks Award for the Best Family Photographer in Honolulu for 2009. The Best Places Honolulu contest was organized by Parentsconnect and parents voted for their favorite local stores and service providers. Thank you to all the parents who voted for us and congratulations to all the nominees.

North Shore Oahu Family Photography

2009-08-08T01:02:00.000-07:00

Senior Pictures - Oahu

2009-07-31T15:56:00.000-07:00

Laura '10: Spokesmodel for Senior Portrait Hawaii

2009-07-23T18:27:00.000-07:00

Meet Laura '10, our gorgeous spokesmodel for Senior Portrait Hawaii. If you're a social butterfly and are interested in our senior portrait spokesmodel program, please view the information and contact us. More images of Laura are posted on the Oahu Portrait Photographer facebook page.

Family Photography: Lanikai Beach, Oahu

2009-07-15T15:39:00.000-07:00

A family gathered in Kailua to celebrate a high school graduate in June. The Le Jardin Academy graduate is the one jumping for joy in the group shot. Congratulations to the grad and to his 'ohana!

Oahu Wedding Photos, Bridal Portraits and Vow Renewal Photos at AinaKai Blog

2009-07-10T12:48:00.000-07:00

Please visit the AinaKai Photography blog to view recent wedding photographs, bridal portraits and vow renewal photography by Oahu Wedding Photo. I will continue to post my family lifestyle portraits and hawaii senior pictures on this blog.

I plan to post special offers on the Oahu Portrait Photographer facebook page for my facebook friends (next up: fall special to be posted next month). Thank you for visiting and please continue to check back and join my facebook 'ohana.

Turtle Bay Resort Family Photography

2009-07-03T19:31:00.000-07:00

Grandparents, their children and grandchildren, had a vacation/family reunion at Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore of Oahu. We did a custom photo session which included group photos of the whole family, the grandchildren, and a few quick photos of the core families and individual kids or siblings. It was a very hot day and a 2.5 hour session but the kids did great. The parents had brought snacks for the little ones and they were smiling big when the tummies were full :)

Oahu Couple Portrait: 20th Wedding Anniversary

2009-06-29T15:41:00.000-07:00

This couple had met and got married on Oahu when they were both stationed at the Kaneohe Marine Corps Base. They regretted not having professional wedding pictures taken, so they returned to Hawaii for their 20th wedding anniversary and requested a couple portrait session on the beach. Congratulations and we hope you will return to Hawaii to celebrate your 25th!

Hawaii Military Family Photography

2009-06-24T12:17:00.000-07:00

These photos were taken a few days before Dad was deployed to Afghanistan. (Mom loved the photos so much that she wants to have photos taken again when Dad returns.) Mom realized that her young kids are sad and confused with Dad away, so she put together a deployment kit for kids to help make the transition a little easier. Good luck with the business and I pray for Dad's safe return.

Iolani School Senior Portrait: Lanikai Oahu

2009-06-18T14:28:00.000-07:00

A talented senior has his senior pictures taken a few days before he graduated from Iolani School. This smart, handsome guy is also star golfer and will be playing golf for OSU in the fall. He wasn't too excited about having his pictures taken but did it as a favor for his mom - how sweet is that! So, we had to get some photos with Mom! Good luck in college - we are hoping that you will be the next Tiger Woods!

Hilton Hawaiian Village Family Photography

2009-06-11T17:27:00.000-07:00

A family from Minnesota vacationed in Honolulu and had a lifestyle photo session at the Hilton Hawaiian Village where they were staying. Mom had just bought herself a Nikon and asked for some pointers on how to use it. No doubt she'll be taking lots of photos of her lovely daughters.

Oahu Engagement Photography

2009-05-30T01:36:00.000-07:00

This couple will be saying "I do" in Wisconsin later this year. They were in Honolulu for a convention and requested an e-session on the beach. The engagement session was also an opportunity for them to get comfortable in front of the camera before their wedding. Congratulations! We hope you have a lovely wedding.

Hawaii Family Photography

2009-05-11T12:36:00.000-07:00

A family from California visited friends in Kaneohe and had their photos taken on the beach. They put off a trip to the neighbor islands for their next visit and instead splurged on a lifestyle portrait session so that they could have a lasting souvenir of their vacation.

Mother's Day: Refugee Moms

2009-05-07T13:20:00.000-07:00

In the spirit of Mother's Day, I will be donating a portion of the proceeds from family portrait sessions taken this month to support refugee moms. Please join me in helping moms who have been displaced by war in countries such as Pakistan (Swat Valley), Afghanistan, Iraq, South Sudan, Darfur and Sri Lanka. You can learn more about the plight of refugees on the websites for the United Nations High Commission for Refugees or Doctors without Borders. Its difficult for us who live in a peaceful, prosperous country to imagine what it is like to live in a war-torn country without a home and without food, water and medicines for our children. No matter what our religion, culture or language, we are all moms and we all want the best for our children. They say photos speak a thousand words; I think the ones below speak volumes. They were all taken a few days ago in Swat Valley, Pakistan by talented photographers working for Getty Images and Reuters. Please show you care. Get involved.

Photo credits: 1 and 2 Getty Images, 3 - 5 Reuters

A few other links.

Give a meaningful gift this Mother's Day: Choose your gift basket at International Rescue Committee
On Mother's Day or during any day in May, participate in a day of fasting - water or refugee rations only.
Mother's Day Actions by Stop Genocide Now

Senior Portrait, Manoa, Oahu

2009-05-05T12:39:00.000-07:00

Margaret is involved in several school activities including serving as the editor of the school newspaper. As a former journalism teacher, I know that students who take on this job are leaders. Congratulations and good luck to you, Margaret!

Happy Cinco de Mayo! Did you know that Cinco de Mayo celebrates the day that the Mexican Army defeated the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862? Salud!

Kaneohe Marines: Couple Portrait Oahu

2009-05-01T12:55:00.000-07:00

A military couple - both are in the Marine Corps - had their pictures taken with their Australian Cattle Dog, Sheila. They contacted me on Thursday and asked if I could take their pictures the following day since he was being deployed to Iraq the next evening. Since I live so close to the marine base, it was not a problem. I'm so glad I got to meet this lovely couple from the midwest. Thank you for the flowers! Speaking of flowers, Happy Lei Day everyone!

Mother's Day Portraits on Oahu, Hawaii

2009-04-22T17:49:00.000-07:00

Have a mother-daughter portrait taken at your favorite location on Oahu in time for Mother's Day! It's the best gift you can give mom! This beautiful mom and daughter had a lifestyle photo session on the beach a couple of days ago. Now they can enjoy their photos on Mother's Day next month and twenty years from now.

Destination Senior Pictures Hawaii

2009-04-20T19:48:00.000-07:00

Jessica, a high school senior from Kansas, vacationed with her family at the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Honolulu during the Pro Bowl and had her senior pictures taken there. She requested the two-hour Celebration package as she wanted some family photos as well. The whole family are football fans, so they were happy that the Pro Bowl players were staying at the Hilton as well. In fact, Jessica's brother got his football autographed by Tony Gonzalez during our shoot! Yesterday, Jessica called and told me that she is getting ready to send out her graduation announcements with her senior pictures from Hawaii. Congratulations, Jessica!

Ko'olina Beach Family Portrait

2009-04-12T16:51:00.000-07:00

A military family living in Ko'olina wanted to have their family pictures taken to remember their time in Hawaii. The little boy had the biggest smile and was a joy to photograph.

Couple Portrait - Oahu, Hawaii

2009-04-04T14:16:00.000-07:00

Another blog post that is past due ... This good looking couple enjoyed a vacation in Hawaii in January. They stayed at the Ihilani Resort in Ko'olina but decided to have their beach portrait session on the windward side. We got lots of playful lifestyle portraits as this couple was up for anything. We recently found each other on Facebook and now we keep up with each other's lives. If any of my awesome clients are on Facebook, I'd love to hear from you!

Oahu Maternity Portraits

2009-03-29T02:45:00.000-07:00

Oahu Event Photography: University of Hawaii Nurses Pinning Ceremony Graduation

2009-03-23T11:31:00.000-07:00

This blog post is way overdue. Back in December, we photographed the University of Hawaii School of Nursing's Honors or Pinning Ceremony. The students wanted outdoor portraits with family and friends prior to the ceremony, coverage of the event and reception. At the ceremony, a family member presents a lei with a special pin to the graduate after he or she has received the diploma from the Dean. The ceremony also included the students reading the Nightingale Pledge accompanied by the beautiful candle lighting ceremony. Below is some history about Florence Nightingale and the Candle lighting ceremony courtesy of http://www.accd.edu/SAC/NURSING/honors.html

Florence Nightingale, an English nurse and pioneer reformer, was born in Florence, Italy in 1820 and died 8/13/1910. Many modern nursing techniques can be traced back to her. History was made during the Crimean War when Florence took 38 women to Turkey to nurse sick and wounded British soldiers. The British government had never before permitted women to do this. Because of her selfless duty during the Crimean War, Florence Nightingale became known as the "lady with the lamp." As a tribute to Florence's dedication, the lamp icon became symbolic of nursing. The lamp will always shine brightly as a symbol of the care and devotion the nurse administers to the sick and injured in the practice of Nursing.

Thus, nursing students honor the dedication of Nurse Nightingale and symbolically plan to carry the ideals for which she stood in the Candle lighting portion of the pinning ceremony. The tradition of Candle lighting and Pledge recognizes her ideals.

Waikiki Baby and Family Photography: Hilton Hawaiian Village

2009-03-16T19:04:00.000-07:00

A thoughtful friend gifted this family with a baby portrait session to be used during their vacation in Waikiki. The baby was jetlagged and fell asleep during the photo session, but even after he was woken up by mom after just a few minutes, he was in a good mood. He is such a good-natured, happy little guy.

Senior Portrait Hawaii accepting Spokesmodels from Oahu High Schools

2009-03-14T00:35:00.000-07:00

Aloha Class of 2010! Senior Portrait Hawaii is now accepting applicants for our spokesmodel program.

Our spokesmodels receive:

A two-hour Celebration Senior Portrait Session
20 images to post on Facebook or MySpace
Business cards

After just 2 referrals:

Earn $50.00 print credit for every referral over two (2)
10 additional MySpace or Facebook images
60 day custom website

After just 5 referrals:

Continue to earn $50.00 print credit for every referral

DVD of all your high-resolution images with photo release

If you're interested in this position, please email (seniorportrait @ gmail dot com) your name, school and your contact information and attach a recent snapshot of yourself. There is no cost to you, and you and your parents are always welcome to call or meet with me for more information. If selected as a senior spokesmodel, I will contact you to schedule your photo session. I am presently accepting only one spokesmodel per school. This offer is valid for 2010 seniors attending schools on Oahu. Spokesmodel portrait sessions need to be completed by September 30, 2009.

Family Portrait at the Hale Koa Hotel

2009-03-08T21:53:00.000-07:00

This family visited Hawaii and stayed at Hale Koa Hotel in Waikiki to celebrate mom/grandma's birthday - we won't divulge her age other than to say she looks fantastic. We found out that the birthday girl doesn't like to smile for photos but we managed to get her laughing for a few shots. There was a beautiful rainbow and sunset that evening.

Family Portrait: Hawaii Vacation

2009-03-04T20:35:00.000-08:00

These smart parents (both are pediatricians!) brought along a tub of ice cream for their little boy and said it was from us! After about ten minutes of beach photography, he asked us for the ice cream. From then on, it was an ice cream shoot! The family lives in California but visits family in Hawaii every year. We hope to see you next year! This time we will be sure to bring along an ice cream for one of our favorite clients :)

Destination Senior Pictures: Honolulu

2009-02-25T12:53:00.000-08:00

This lucky high school student was treated to a trip to Oahu, Hawaii by her mom. She was accompanied by her high school sweetheart and her mom, of course. On a whim, she decided to have her senior pictures taken in Waikiki and called me for a "milestone" session.

If you would like more information about our outdoor or on location senior portrait sessions, please visit Senior Portrait Hawaii. Plans are in the works for a senior spokesmodel program for students attending Oahu high schools. Watch this blog for details or send us an email.

Hawaii Lifestyle Photography

2009-02-19T16:42:00.000-08:00

Lifestyle photography is all about capturing your essence. It is similar to the environmental portrait but it takes it a step further. Wikipedia defines lifestyle photography as "re-creating real life situations in a controlled setting."

What is lifestyle photography?

Lifestyle photography is very different from the traditional studio portrait session where the subject is posed (chin up, tilt your head, hands on the lap etc.), photographed and ushered out of the studio. The majority of lifestyle photography shoots take place outdoors or on-location, such as in your home or some other place that is significant to you. Lifestyle photography sessions usually last from one hour to three hours and include some formal or posed shots and lots of informal, fun photographs that capture doing what you do best. If it is a family lifestyle photo shoot, be prepared to run after your kids, roll around with them, take them for a piggyback ride or simply enjoy sharing an ice-cream with them - anything that you would normally do on a Sunday afternoon with your children.

Lifestyle Shoots in Hawaii

In Hawaii, where I live, lifestyle photography sessions often center around the ocean and the great outdoors where people spend a lot of their time. If you are a paddler or a surfer, the photographer will ask you to come to the photo shoot in your boardshorts with your paddle or your favorite surfboard. A typical session will include a few posed shots on your favorite beach and then the fun begins ... its off to the water to do what you love. Some photographers will get in the water with you while others will shoot from the shore.

Lifestyle Photography in the Studio

This is not to say that lifestyle photography can't take place in a studio - it can, but a studio can be limiting. There are photographers who specialize in studio lifestyle photography, and if the outdoors is not for you, a controlled studio environment is a good alternative.

Preparing for a lifestyle photography session is easy after you find the right photographer. Wear what you normally wear to do what you love, then show up for the session with a good attitude! Take along a friend if this person can help you relax and have fun in front of the camera.

Family Portrait at Ko Olina Beach, Hawaii

2009-02-15T12:26:00.000-08:00

A family from California vacationed at the Ko Olina Beach Club located next to the Ihilani Resort and contacted me for a family portrait. We all had a great time during the shoot. The lovely young lady is an Iolani grad and now, a captain in the Army! Yesterday, I learned that her husband, who is also in the military, has been deployed to Iraq. We pray for his safe return.

Family Portrait: Hilton Hawaiian Village

2009-02-06T13:59:00.000-08:00

Hawaii Honeymoon Photos

2009-01-29T16:04:00.000-08:00

He's a journalist, she's a poet - what a great combination! This couple came to Hawaii for their honeymoon and had their photos taken on the beach. They are so sweet together and so easy to photograph.

Senior Pictures in Hawaii: A wish come true

2009-01-25T21:08:00.000-08:00

This Florida high school senior is a talented dancer and cheerleader. Her dream was to have her senior pictures taken in Hawaii! Her wish came true over Christmas break when she and her family visited Oahu and spent a week at the Waikiki Marriott. Here's wishing you a long healthy life filled with love, music and dance.

Punahou School

2009-01-21T16:23:00.001-08:00

Janaury 20, 2009, was a special day for Punahou School in Honolulu, Hawaii. One of its graduates became the 44th president of the United States. Punahou School's marching band played at the presidential inauguration and was rewarded with warm smiles and shakas from the Obama family. Punahou School is a special place for me because I worked there as an editor and photographer in their communications office prior to starting my photography business. Punahou School's initiatives include public service, sustainability, social entrepreneurship and global citizenship - values that I hope Barack Obama will embrace. Good luck, Mr. President! Punahou has taught you well.

Punahou School has several historical buildings on its lovely grounds. It has one of the most beautiful chapels on Oahu. Several Punahou graduates get married at Thurston Chapel. Above is a photograph I took of the chapel's stained glass and Lily Pond.

Lanikai Oahu outdoor portraits: Cousins

2009-01-13T18:56:00.000-08:00

Six teenage cousins and their families spent Christmas break together in Lanikai, Oahu. The teens were dragged out to Lanikai Beach for a portrait session by their parents! The photos are going to be a present for grandma. I know grandma will like the photos but I hope that the cousins also like them and feel the torture was worth the time! Just kidding - they were all great sports and seemed to enjoy the photo session.

Senior Portrait: University of Hawaii Grad

2009-01-08T23:13:00.001-08:00

A student-athlete graduated from the University of Hawaii at Manoa in December. This lovely gal was on the Rainbow Wahine hammer throw team. Taking pictures when she was swinging the heavy metal ball was a little scary, but she promised not to hit us! She hopes to get into medical college to become a community doctor someday. Congratulations and good luck! Go UH!

Baby Portrait: Lanikai Beach

2009-01-03T23:32:00.000-08:00

A cute toddler and his parents played on Lanikai Beach in Kailua, Oahu, over Christmas vacation. Here are a few photos from their family portrait session. Happy New Year!

Ko olina Family Portrait

2008-12-23T17:33:00.000-08:00

A young family from Texas stayed at the Ko Olina Beach Club and had a sunset family portrait taken at the beach there. In the middle of the shoot, a Ko Olina guard tried to shoo us away claiming we were on a private beach. We climbed over some rocks to leave the "private beach" and continued the shoot. Its a shame that Ko Olina won't allow their own Beach Club members and Ihilani Resort guests to enjoy a family portrait at their "private beaches." Where's the aloha?

Hawaii Family Portrait

2008-12-16T12:55:00.000-08:00

A family from California stayed at the Sheraton Waikiki and requested an on location family portrait session at the beach. The little girl was hungry and not in the mood for a photography session, but after eating a few crackers that I had in the car for my son, she perked up and managed a smile or two. We were blessed with a beautiful rainbow over Diamond Head.

Couple Portrait - Waikiki, Hawaii

2008-12-11T14:50:00.000-08:00

Newlyweds from London, England enjoyed their first-year anniversary and a second honeymoon in Hawaii. Since they scheduled their portrait session toward the beginning of their stay, they were able to take back their photo CD and prints with them. They are looking forward to returning to Hawaii in a few years.

Photographer for Marine Corps Ball Hawaii, Turtle Bay Resort

2008-12-04T16:40:00.000-08:00

We were invited to be the official photographers for the U.S. Marine Corps Birthday Ball at Turtle Bay Resort last month. We took portraits of the marines and did some general coverage of the ceremony at the event. The colonel cut the cake with a sword! Gotta try that at the next birthday party :)

It was wonderful experience working with the military officers - they were organized, polite and downright nice.

Hawaii Beach Portrait of Military Couple and their Dogs

2008-11-25T19:03:00.000-08:00

Military couple had their portrait taken a few days before they were both deployed to Iraq. (Unfortunately, they will be in different towns and won't see each other often.) They brought their two dogs to Waimanalo to join the photography session. We got tons good photos and they both said they were going to take along a copy of the disc to remember their happy time together in Hawaii.

Please keep our military families as well as our less fortunate brothers and sisters around the world who are living in poverty when you sit down to eat your meal on Thanksgiving Day. Count your blessings, everyone, and Happy Thanksgiving!

St. Alban's Iolani Chapel Wedding

2008-11-19T19:38:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Steven and Marissa who tied the knot at St. Alban's chapel at Iolani School last month. More photos from their wedding are available on the Oahu Wedding Photo website and blog.

Family Photo Books

2008-11-14T16:46:00.000-08:00

Looking for the perfect gift for your parents, grandparents or godparents? How about a coffee table photo book! Photo books are not only great keepsakes of your Hawaii vacation or family photographs, they are also thoughtful gifts for close family and friends. Our hardcover photo books are professionally designed and include about 35 images from your portrait session. See our photo book sample here.

If you would like to order a photo book as a Christmas gift, please schedule your portrait session before the end of this month. If you prefer to use your old family photos in your photo book, please provide the photos to me by December 1.

Hilton Grand Vacation Club Family Portrait in Hawaii

2008-11-09T17:41:00.000-08:00

This family from California had an on location portrait session while vacationing at the Hilton Grand Vacation Club located next to the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Honolulu. The kids were thrilled as their grandparents from Hong Kong also joined them in Hawaii.

Tips for great on location child/family portraits

2008-11-05T21:28:00.000-08:00

When preparing for an on location (outdoor) family photography session with young children, focus on the fundamentals. If you follow the tips below, you will end up with much more than a family portrait or beautiful vacation photographs. Hopefully, you will get photos that will be treasured for generations.

• Schedule the photography session at a time that works for your kids.

If you have young children and they are happiest early morning, schedule the session at 7 am. Most on-location photographers will take photos as early as sunrise! Studios are less flexible, but it doesn't hurt to ask.

• Select the location(s) carefully.

When it comes to photography, location matters! Many families who visit Hawaii like to take the photos on the beach. If your child doesn't like sand or is afraid of the water, let your photographer know. Take a blanket or mat to lay on the beach. Ask your photographer to suggest a beach that has a grassy area nearby in case the beach doesn't work out.

Some children feel most comfortable in their home. On-location photographers will travel to your home. Ask the photographer to arrive a little early to find the best locations for the shoot. Tidy up and clear clutter from the rooms where the photo session will take place.

• Rested kids with full tummies equal great photos.

A surprisingly high number of parents drag hungry kids to a portrait session at sunset, meal times or nap time. Sunset photos are nice but if the kids are unhappy, it will show in the photos. If your children are fed and rested before the session, chances are you will be happy with the photos.

• Select the right photographer.

There are a lot of photographers out there with varying levels of experience and prices. Do your homework! Check the portfolios and blogs of local photographers and don't go by price alone. If quality is important, be prepared to pay anywhere from $350 to $800 for a one to two-hour session. The price usually includes a print credit or your high-resolution digital files. Once you've narrowed down your selection, email or call the photographers to see how responsive and accommodating they are.

• Ask the right questions.

Find out exactly what is included in the photo package. Does the price include taxes and travel fees? Is there a charge for rescheduling in case of bad weather or if baby is sick? Is there a charge for retouching photos? Email these questions so you have the response in writing. Most photographers reserve the right to use a few images for promotional purposes. If you're uncomfortable with this, let your photographer know. Most photographers (including myself) honor such requests.

• Communication is key.

Once you've selected your photographer, communicate! Be clear about your style preference (candids, posed or a mixture) and communicate any special requests.

• Wear the right clothes.

Most photographers will tell you that simple, comfortable and coordinated clothing look best in photos. Avoid very bright and bold prints as they can be distracting. If it is a beach location, take a few extra outfits for the children as they tend to end up in the water.

• Take along meaningful props.

If you plan to take props, be sure to take ones that are meaningful and representative of the person being photographed. If it is a young child, take along his or her favorite teddy bear or story book.

• Snacks, hairbrush and hairspray

If you plan to take your photos on the beach, take a hairbrush, some hairspray or gel and something to tie back long hair. Remember, it's breezy at the beach! Snacks for young children and a bottle water might also come in handy.

• The most important tip: Have fun!

If you relax and have a great time during the photo shoot, your kids will follow suit. The photos will show a happy family having a wonderful time in Hawaii.

Hawaii Local Kids: Children's Portraits

2008-10-30T16:45:00.000-07:00

These kids caught bugs (first photo), climbed trees and at least one ended up in the water. Their little cousin, who was visiting from Nevada, fell asleep on his mom's shoulder. I love photographing kids! You just go with the flow and let them have a good time - same principle applies to wedding photography!

Happy Halloween, everyone!

A Hawaii Teenager

2008-10-28T14:21:00.001-07:00

I rarely write personal blogs but since my older son turned 13 recently, I thought this is a milestone worth blogging about. The first photo shows how much he enjoys a kiss from him mom ...

This is a very uncharacteristic portrait as Resh is hardly ever serious. It was taken right after he got home from school so I guess he was thinking about all the homework he has to do!

Now this is Resh - barefoot (all the time), boardshorts with pockets stuffed with wax and sometimes a spam musubi (you should see the mess when it comes out of the dryer), and a surfboard tucked under his arm. A typical local boy.

Sunset Beach Portraits Hawaii

2008-10-20T17:14:00.000-07:00

This girl had the surprise of her life when her boyfriend whisked her off to Hawaii and proposed. She said "Yes!" The sunset beach portraits were taken on the North Shore of Oahu on a rainy, overcast afternoon. But the clouds parted for a glorious Hawaii sunset.

Oahu Wedding Photo

2008-10-14T18:54:00.000-07:00

Oahu Wedding Photo, located in Honolulu, Hawaii, is now accepting bookings for 2009. We are offering complimentary outdoor engagement portraits to couples who book an 8-hour package by December 31, 2008. Oahu Wedding Photo will customize a package to meet your wedding photography needs.

Most of my clients find me through referrals. You won't find me at Hawaii wedding shows or advertising in wedding magazines, but if you would like to see more of my work, please give me a call and I would be happy to meet with you.

Some of my favorite locations to photograph weddings on Oahu include: Lanikuhonua, The Bayer Estate, Kualoa Ranch, Turtle Bay Resort, Halekulani, The Royal Hawaiian Hotel, Moana Surfrider Hotel, and any oceanfront residence on Oahu.

Hawaii Vacation Portrait Windward Oahu

2008-10-07T20:28:00.000-07:00

A family from Texas vacationed at the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki and visited their son, who is based at Kaneohe Marine Corp Base. They had a family portrait session on the windward side of Oahu on beautiful Kailua Beach.

Hawaii Military Family Portrait

2008-09-30T23:02:00.001-07:00

Military family living in Kailua, Oahu, requested a family portrait session before Dad left to serve in Iraq. Aren't the kids beautiful? No doubt they miss their dad. We all pray for his safe return. OP2 offers a discount for military family portrait sessions.

Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep (NILMDTS) Annual Fund Drive

2008-09-25T16:49:00.000-07:00

October is recognized as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month. Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep, an organization that coordinates remembrance photography throughout the U.S., is holding its annual fund drive from now until October 31. Please consider making a donation to this wonderful organization. Also, if you know of a family who might be interested in this service on Oahu, feel free to pass along my information as I am a volunteer photographer for this organization. Disclaimer: I have not yet done any remembrance photography sessions, so I hope I'll be able to handle it (emotionally) should someone call me. Donations to NILMDTS will go toward training and educating volunteer photographers, providing outreach to hospitals and helping families cope with their enormous loss. Thank you in advance for your support.

Family Portrait at Hilton Hawaiian Village

2008-09-16T19:37:00.000-07:00

Family from California requested some semi-formal photographs at Hilton Hawaiian Village, where they were vacationing. They preferred the lush greenery to the beach, so we walked around the hotel's landscaped areas and got lots of nice family photographs. Now the dilemma is, which ones to print!

Modeling Portfolio Hawaii

2008-09-11T15:32:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of the modeling portfolio shots taken in Hawaii of the high school senior from the last blog post. This girl is a natural in front of the camera.

Destination Senior Portrait Kailua Oahu

2008-09-10T18:53:00.000-07:00

High school senior from Washington State visited her grandparents on Oahu and had her graduation portrait taken on Kailua Beach. She was also interested in updating her modeling portfolio - blog post to follow. Best wishes for a great senior year, and hope to see you back in Hawaii again soon!

Family Portrait in Hawaii Kai, Portlock

2008-09-07T20:26:00.000-07:00

A family from Nevada gathered at a house in Portlock, Hawaii Kai, this summer. I loved taking photos of their little girl. Capturing the interaction between a child and her parents is special, but capturing the interaction between a child and her grandparents is even more special.

Lanikai Beach Engagement Portrait, Oahu Hawaii

2008-08-30T18:59:00.000-07:00

A couple living temporarily in Kailua had an engagement portrait session on Lanikai Beach, Oahu. They plan to have their wedding next year in San Diego when they move back to California later this year. Congratulations and good luck to the happy couple!

Senior Portrait - Oahu Waianae Coast, Hawaii

2008-08-24T15:31:00.000-07:00

High school senior had her senior portrait taken on the beautiful Leeward Coast of Hawaii while vacationing with her family this summer. This girl could look into the sunlight without blinking an eye and she stood under the hot Waianae sun for two hours without breaking a sweat. Fortunately, we started the photography session at 8 am. We got some incredible shots. After the portrait session, we jumped into the ocean to cool off!

Beach Bridal Portrait Hawaii

2008-08-13T00:56:00.000-07:00

Newlyweds from Finland honeymooned in Waikiki Hawaii this summer. They wanted a casual Hawaii bridal - honeymoon portrait session on the beach. So she brought her lovely summery wedding dress sans the veil and bouquet on her honeymoon. We were warned that Finnish guys don't like to smile for the camera, but we managed to get several chuckles from this Finnish groom!