Hawaii Family Photographer | Stunning Sunrise Over Makapuu

Family Photographer Favorite Time of Day

I stood on the sand dunes taking in the scene. Birds skimmed the surface of the water and a smattering of pink clouds painted the horizon. Sunrise was still 15 minutes away, but it promised to be exceptional. I dug my feet further into the cool sand and mentally located the best patches of sand, the smoothest rocks and the most photogenic tidepools for the morning ahead.

I was excited to meet and photograph Evelyn’s family of three. They were visiting from the Pacific Northwest and were looking for a laid-back experience in nature – a beautiful place to explore and be themselves. Surprisingly, they specifically mentioned a love of plants. As a botanist by training, I couldn’t help feeling that we were kindred spirits.

As an added bonus, they had a toddler. Photo sessions with toddlers are some of my favorites. Yes, the little creatures can be unpredictable and tantrum-prone, but they also explore the world with unbridled joy and enthusiasm. That stuff’s contagious.

About the Session

They pulled into the gravel-studded parking lot at Makapuu Beach Park just as the sun touched the horizon. The rocky coastline at Makapuu is not exactly a botanical paradise, but it’s a scene that stops you in your tracks and demands open-mouthed stares of wonder.

The morning lived up to its promise and we explored the dunes and tidepools under a golden sky. Each rock was carefully overturned. Each puddle tested. All that beauty was balanced with a good dose of goofiness and humor. Laughter rang out over the little beach and the session felt like family. Almost like an advertisement for what a family could be. It was a good morning.

Do You Need Your Own Little Corner of Paradise to Explore?

Let me plan a fun adventure for your family so you can enjoy the day and freeze perfect moments through beautiful photos and films. Find out more about my fun family photography sessions here.