I can’t believe that just a week ago, I was in Hawaii walking along the beaches of Oahu with the wind in my hair and soaking up the 75 degree weather. I am so glad that when I saw a “break” in my January calendar, I decided to take a week off from work and go visit a friend in Hawaii. Everyone knows I’m a workaholic AND a bit of a hermit… two traits that don’t often lead to taking spontaneous trips to new places. But that week was just what I needed to start 2018 in a refreshed and inspired state of mind, and now I’m ready to crush this year!
As soon as I realized I’d be going to Hawaii (about 2.5 weeks before the trip), it dawned on me that I would LOVE to do a photo session while there. All my fellow photographers out there will relate when I say that it’s SO tough being in a beautiful new location without getting to take some photos! And naturally since what I love is photographing couples and documenting their relationships, I wanted to find a couple on the island of Oahu. After posting in several Facebook groups and reaching out to all the connections I had, my girl at Hillary Leah Photography connected me with Ann & Joe (thanks, Hill!).
Ann & Joe got married this past November at one of my favorite venues in Georgia, The Farm at High Shoals. They’re currently living on Oahu while Joe is stationed there with the Navy. I was thrilled that they liked the idea of getting together for a photo shoot while I was visiting. We met up at the Makapuu tide pools — such a gorgeous place (but really, EVERYWHERE in Hawaii is gorgeous). I loved the black rocks, the bold clouds, and the most turquoise water I’ve ever seen.
Honestly, this shoot was quite the challenge for me, because there were so many factors that I was not used to. I think I’ve only photographed on a beach maybe 2 or 3 times in my entire career, and it’s a whole different ballgame! The water was extremely bright, but it was overcast so I couldn’t rely on the sun for a natural reflector like I typically do. We endured STRONG winds throughout the entire shoot, and a film of sand or water or something (not sure what) kept covering my lenses. Even though I would pause to wipe my lens off between shots, my photos kept appearing “gray,” which made the editing process especially difficult.
All that to say, these photos look a bit different than my typical work, but I still adore them! And it’s hard not to smile when looking at how cute Ann & Joe are. :) I love that this session challenged me and allowed me to try something new. Ann & Joe, thank you for spending this time with me! And Hawaii, you’re perfect.
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