Grand Wailea || A Beachfront Paradise

Situated on stunning Wailea beach, the Grand Wailea is one of Maui’s finest resorts. It boasts over 40 acres of lush gardens, waterfalls, pools, and more. If you are lucky enough to be celebrating an anniversary, anticipating a new addition, or even traveling with the ohana for the first time, you have picked the right spot to capture your Maui memories.

The backdrop in front of the magnificent waterfall is a great start to your session, where we can capture candid family fun. Your little girl will have a blast posing next to the “Lucky Mermaid” in the heart of the resort. The boys won’t be able to stop laughing after making silly faces at the camera by the reflecting pool, and jumping as high as they can on the soft, sandy beach. Last but not least, don’t forget to give your loved one a kiss as the sun goes down behind Lana’i.

Through our lens, allow us to capture your special moments on our beautiful aina – memories that will last a lifetime.

Written by Nicole S. (Pacific Dream Photography at the Grand Wailea Maui)

40 Years | Anniversary Sessions

Just like the beautiful island of Maui, marriages take time to create. The Wild Ohana came to celebrate their 40th Anniversary at the Andaz, Maui in Wailea, Hawaii. During their photo shoot while walking on the beach I asked them what was the key to a marriage lasting 40 years. Their response was honesty, embracing friction, forgiveness, and lots of kisses. I loved their take on embracing friction. Just like the making of Maui and the Hawaiian islands it takes a lot of friction to make something beautiful. The process is refining and in the end you get to celebrate. If you see, the Wild’s are not shy on celebrating the affection for one another.

So come celebrate with Pacific Dream Photography! Get photos to mark the milestones of making it through the friction and the kisses that come along with it. Just like Maui the demi-god who pulled the islands out of the Pacific and made something so beautiful, so is your wonderful relationships. Capture the moment with a photo shoot with Pacific Dream Photography.

Written by Chris H. (Pacific Dream Photography at the Andaz, Maui)

Daddys Girl || Photo Mementos

Big Memories sometimes come in “little” packages and for this family it was their cute daughter Colleen.

This beautiful family flew to Hawaii from NY and found the perfect day for a photo-shoot at our studio in the St. Regis Princeville.

We can’t get over how amazing this family was on their session and also couldn’t help but notice that very special bond between Daddy and his girl. Can you see it? :)

Written by Matt R. (Co-Founder & Managing Partner of Pacific Dream Photography)

Worth the Wait || Engagement Photography

In my 6 years of being a photographer, and photographing couples in Hawaii for engagement sessions, or Weddings, I've come across many love stories. None, however, can compare to the one I heard recently. This Love story not only enchanted me and warmed my heart, but it is the type of story that you watch in movies or read about in books. It all began back in High School for Rashelle and Donny. Donny's heart was stolen the moment he met Rashelle his Junior Year. But being his young, shy, high school self the most he could hope for was a glance once in a while from her. As insignificant as that may seem, he was content with that extent of interaction then.

After 3 years they ran into each other at CEU in Price, UT. And Donny felt confident enough to say "hello", exchange some small talk and asked for her number. They occasionally talked and Donny would stop by her work with flowers once in a while. He was stuck on her hard and knew she was the "One". But unfortunately Rashelle held back. While he was determined to not give up, time passed, and Rashelle moved. They still kept in touch from time to time. Donny questioned whether it was worth to continue trying to win her heart, so he moved on. Donny began to date others and so did Rashelle. After a couple of years he heard through the grapevine that Rashelle was engaged to her old High School boyfriend.

Donny was heart broken and this time, he let her know. Two years went by again, and he heard that Rashelle had broken off her engagement a few months after he found out, but now Donny was the one getting married. The tables had turned and now Rashelle was heart broken.

Donny got married April of 2002 and Rashelle got married Oct. 2002. Two years later they met up again for lunch. Donny was still taken back by her beauty and thought "she will always be the One that got away." They both knew that they could not see each other again for the sake of being faithful to their marriages.

2014 came around and Donny sent Rashelle a "happy birthday" text. Then a year later on Donny's birthday she texted back to say "Thank you and Happy Birthday." After almost a decade they decided to meet up again, and their chemistry was unquestionable. Donny got divorced and reached out to Rashelle and found out that she too was getting divorced, this was all in 2015. Donny then realized that perhaps their story wasn't quite over, maybe he would get a second chance. Fairy tales can come true... right?

In April of 2016 they went on a trip for a few days together and they immediately clicked, Donny knew he was still in LOVE with Rashelle and that she was the "ONE" after all. On Nov. 26th, 2016 at sunrise Donny proposed to Rashelle and she said "YES." Some LOVE stories take months to come together but this one took 19 years. A slight detour well worth taking.

Wedding is set to take place in July of 2017.

For some tips on arranging your own engagement photos, please check out this blog.

Written by Francys T. (Pacific Dream Photography at the Grand Hyatt Kauai)

Family Photography | Large Group Photos

Do you have a headcount of more than seven for your next photo session? No need to fear. While getting group photos to look professional can be a challenge, with the right light, location and the burst of a shutter, Pacific Dream Photography can make it easy. So, go ahead and get the whole family together, or invite your friends because with Pacific Dream, the motto is, “the more, the merrier!” Find below some tips to take the best group photos possible.

1. Find even, soft light: While locating a spot that will both look nice and administer good light for a lot of people can be hard, it is the most important step while taking large group photos. While shooting outdoors, hard and or directional light can be unflattering and result to uneven exposure while some people are blanketed with different brightness levels of light. To avoid this, you need to find a spot that will cover everyone’s faces in the same light so that nobody has awkward spots of sun, and nobody is in dark shadows while the others are in brightness. This will lead to a more cohesive, professional looking image. That being said, many times, your best bet will be to find open shade. This will be somewhere that everyone may look their best without squinting at the sun, or being dappled with heavy light or shadow. Take a look at these examples.

1. Tier your subjects: Take to a staircase, a slope, or grab some chairs to separate the group into tiers to help make everyone fit a little more snug. It can be strange to have a long line of people in a photo, so tighten up your frame by placing people in tiers to ensure everyone is visible. Just make sure that the tiers are relatively even so that your end result is balanced!
2. Laugh a little! Okay, so while most group photos are aimed to be more serious, if your clients are family or friends, a great way to make everyone look a little more comfortable is to ask them to take a silly photo. Have everyone laugh or make faces at each other for a light and fun, candid look. Often times these images end up being the favorites and if you have any issues with the group looking stiff, do one more serious smiling pose after the silly ones. Following the laughs, the group tends to look more confortable and relaxed.

So, don’t exclude anyone! Get the whole family together or ask your friends to tag along at your session because our photographers are certain to make your memories with ALL of your loved ones last a lifetime.

Written by Paige W. (Pacific Dream Photography at the Montage Laguna Beach)

Creating Family Traditions | Vow Renewals

Every couple has places that they visit that hold a special meaning. Perhaps it’s close to home, a space that’s safe and sound. Or maybe it’s somewhere far away from familiarity that’s becomes a whole new magical sanctuary for you to explore. To many couples, Kauai’s mysterious, romantic atmosphere has made it an intimate island for them to visit, and even say "I Do." For the Michaels, they made this summer a time to return to the enchanting space where they began their life as husband and wife. They shared vow renewals as thier children touched their toes in the Kauai beach sand.

As time passes, we all evolve. In some seasons, our lives make changes in leaps and bounds, whereas other times we just get to relax and feel the salty breeze. This wonderful married couples family has grown, it’s two charming new members giggled while we shared the moments we captured with them before they returned home to California.

“I can’t wait to bring my husband here!” Exclaimed 6-year-old Sophie when she saw her parent’s laughter and tears. To share a special place you’ve found in the world with those who have a special place in your heart is the most beautiful thing you can do. We are so honored to have been able to witness that moment of sharing this summer with them.

Written by Anna B. (Pacific Dream Photography at the St. Regis Princeville)

What Makes a Photo Great | 5 Key Ingredients

As a photographer, it is crucial to understand what makes a great photo. Here’s the good news, anyone can make a great photograph. The key to capturing great images is the consistency in each photo. Here at Pacific Dream Photography, we have compiled a list of qualities that make good photos great! Here are the six qualities that make up great photographs.

1. Composition – Every image must have a solid composition and be organized. Composition is what attracts the viewer’s eye and keeps the viewer’s attention. Composing an image starts by arranging the objects or subjects, and placing them in a suitable place within the frame.
2. Tells a Story – The best photographers tell a story through each image. Strong photos express a story and bring to mind a response from the viewer. As a photographer, it is important to step back and take the image from the viewer’s point of view. This keeps the photo original and tells the story more clearly.
3. Lighting – Lighting plays a huge role in making a great photo. Lighting determines the atmosphere, tone, and overall mood of the image. A good photographer knows where to place the subjects, so that the light is just right. Great photographs contain well-lit subjects and a good temperature balance. Most importantly, a good photographer takes advantage of shooting at sunrise and sunset. Take a look at one of our earlier posts on why sunrise and sunset are the best times to shoot at.
4. Creativity - What’s a great photo without the creativity? The secret to a great photo is the photographer’s creative edge. Yes, it is key to understand lighting, equipment, and composition, but without creativity everyone’s photos would look the same. Creativity is what makes a good photo a great photo!
5. Timing - Timing is everything. The right sense of timing makes a great photograph. Capturing great photos start by snapping the shutter at the perfect moment. Often times, photographers miss the best moments. It’s important to always have the camera in ready position and be prepared at any given moment.

Written by Julia P. (Pacific Dream Photography at the St. Regis Princeville)

Rain or Shine | Photography in Inclimate Weather

Southern California is known for it’s yearlong sunshine and warm weather. It’s not often that we experience rain or other extreme weather. This is the primary reason people travel near and far to the Montage Laguna Beach to indulge in the California sun. However, although it’s rare, sometimes we do receive a little bit of rain every once in a while in Orange County! This is no reason to fret. Our team of professional photographers will still be able to make your stay at the Montage stress free and still get those amazing photos that you’re looking for. Here are a few things to keep in mind when preparing for your photo shoot in the rain:

1) Don’t forget the umbrellas! While strolling around property or walking along the beach, having a prop such as an umbrella adds a carefree and fun look to your photos. It also adds a nice color pop if there is some cloud coverage.

2) Our properties are beautiful, inside and out! Especially around the holidays, Montage Laguna Beach is decorated head to toe in holly, decorative lights, and poinsettias. So if the rain gets to be too much outside, there are plenty of options to take gorgeous photos inside of the resort. Whether it is near the tree or cuddled up next to the fireplace, there is no shortage of opportunities for the perfect photo.

3) Our cameras can handle a little rain. Believe it or not, most cameras are built with a weather resistant coating. This means that as long as it’s not pouring outside, we are up for a rainy shoot as long as you are!

Considering all of these things, don’t let a little rain prevent you from capturing your travels here in Southern Orange County. Throw on some rain boots and a warm scarf, and leave the rest up to us. For more tips on planning a successful shoot check out our blog on lighting.

Written By Savannah S. (Assistant Creative Director/ Photographer at Montage Laguna Beach)

A Formal Affair | Formal Photography

Whether you’re attending a wedding, charity event, or just need an excuse to buy that brand new dress, Pacific Dream Photography is here to help capture you and your loved ones looking your very best. While most photo shoots opt for semi-casual looks, some of our favorite sessions have included formal wear complete with tuxes and bow ties, floor length gowns and everything in between. It is no question that there is something truly special about capturing your luxurious stay at The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel in an outfit that is just as nice your stay. Here are some options and ideas for your formal photo shoot.

• Book with us before a big event! Heading to a gala fundraiser, fancy dinner or wedding any time soon? Schedule a session with us just before your event to capture the day when you’re already all dolled up. It’s the perfect way to remember the personal details of your event including your outfit and accessories as well as the incredible location. Plus, you’re already set to get dressed up, why not take advantage of your time and commemorate your efforts with photos to last a lifetime?
• Buy that new dress! (Or take the old one out of the back of your closet!) We don’t often have a reason or excuse to get dressed in formal wear, so let your photo shoot be reason enough! Not only will you get use out of your formal attire, but your photos are bound to stand out among the rest while you and your loved ones are dressed to the nines. Its just one extra step to take that will guarantee your session goes perfectly, and your pictures are exactly what you are looking for.
• Take it down a notch! Okay, so the tuxedo and ball gown dynamic isn’t for everyone. But that doesn’t mean you can’t stray from your blue jeans for your photo session. Take a moment to find something you will be comfortable in that doesn’t reflect your daily garb. Men can ditch the tie and opt for a sport coat or simple button up shirt and women can aim for a shorter hem or more relaxed cut. Either way, your elegant looks are certain to wow and make for brilliant photos unlike any that you have taken before. For some more tips for a perfect session, check our blog here.

So, make a reservation and get your best outfit ready because your Pacific Dream photo session is guaranteed to be picture perfect!

Written by Paige W. (Pacific Dream Photography at the Ritz Carlton-Laguna Niguel)

Couples Posing || Photographer Tips

At the Andaz at Wailea if there is one thing we know it's how to capture beautiful photos of couples.

Each month we shoot dozens of couples who have come to the Andaz for a romantic getaway, surprise proposal, weddings, honeymoons, baby moons, birthdays, anniversaries, you name it.

Here are a few tips we recommend when thinking about posed, candid, playful, intimate, and romantic shots.

• Variety - Interacting Versus Posing:

Your photographer will take a variety of shots and will guide you on how to pose and what to do in front of the camera. Sometimes we get stuck in thinking that we must look directly at the camera and smile. To capture a wide variety of poses your photographer will give you suggestions on how to interact with each other, you can try to whisper something funny in your partners ear, walk along the beach looking out to the water, a kiss on the forehead or cheek (don't forget to close your eyes!), or a playful spin, all add natural moments and memories to your shoot. Try as many of these as you'd like and don't be afraid to make suggestions that will bring out the unique qualities of your special bond.

• Candid Shots - Forget the Camera:

Some of our favorite shots of couples happen when they forget the camera and simply laughing with each other in between shots. Candid shots are more natural and tend to have a look and feel that is uniquely you. Feel free to let your photographer know if you prefer candids. we can always stand a few feet away while you take the lead and snap away to get the perfect shot.

• Find some Inspiration - Mood Boards:

Prior to your shoot have a look at Pinterest where there is a plenty of images to inspire. Try searching boards that relate to couple photo sessions / portraits / photo shoots / photography / etc and feel free to pin your favorite shots to your own mood board that you can show your photographer on your smartphone the day of your shoot. This will help your photographer understand your personal taste and the style of photos you love.

• As Always Relax and Have Fun! :

Enjoying your Experience Session in the beautiful island paradise of Maui is the most important part. We love making your trip and occasion even more special with the memories we capture.

Written by Sarah S. (Pacific Dream Photography at the Andaz at Wailea)