My Top 10 Portrait Planning Tips
INTIMIDATED BY THE THOUGHT OF PLANNING YOUR PHOTO SHOOT? DON’T WORRY—WITH THESE TIPS, YOU CAN BEGIN TO ORGANIZE WITH EASE
What time of day is better—sunrise or sunset?
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Sunrise and sunset both make for absolutely stunning images, and ultimately it depends on the look and the vibe you want for your photos. Morning light is softer and brighter, providing a very tropical edge to your photos. If you want a photo gallery that screams “island vacation”, then sunrise is your go-to. Additionally, sunrise typically has less winds than sunset, so if you really want your hair to stay in place, then a morning shoot could be great for you. On the other hand, if you have a beautiful, flowy outfit you want to show off, you might opt for a sunset session. In comparison, sunset offers stronger, more glowy lighting with a visibly warm tone and the possibility of catching a breathtaking Hawaiian sunset as your backdrop.
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If you have kids in your photo group, it’s important to consider their activity levels. You’ll get the best photographic results if your kids have the energy to interact and play during the shoot. A lot of kids are better suited to a morning photoshoot, when they haven’t yet expended their energy and can give their best to the camera. It’s hard for an adult to look their best on camera after a long day—imagine what it’s like for a kid! You know your child best, so plan accordingly.
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What is the best location for portraits on O`ahu?
There are countless great locations for portraits on this island! To start, take a look at my locations page, which details my typical location offerings:
If you have a different location in mind, make note of that in your booking form submission or your contact for submission. I’m always open for new adventures! Please note that an additional travel fee or permit fee may apply to custom locations, but you will always be informed if this is the case.
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What do I wear?
Most importantly, you should wear something you feel good in! Coming into the photoshoot feeling confident will make for the best possible portraits. Make sure your outfit is comfortable enough to get a little active in, and that you’re okay with getting some seawater and sand on it. Steer clear of large logos, loud patterns, and distracting prints (especially stripes) as they often don’t translate well into pictures and can look out-of-date since trends change quickly.
I personally advise avoiding matching aloha prints and carbon-copy group outfits, as this outfit theme can look dated and kitschy on top of taking away from the individuality of each group member. I want everyone’s unique personality to shine through, so electing color-coordination over carbon-copy outfits is a great way to allow for personal fashion choices while creating a successful and harmonious group look.
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Typically, it’s hard to go wrong if you pair a neutral-colored base (like khaki pants) with splashes of color (such as shirts, tops, dresses, skirts, and accessories). Alternatively, some groups—particularly couples—like to let the women shine, with neutral-toned outfits for the guys and bright, eye-catching colors on the ladies. Feel free to check out my galleries for inspiration!
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How many pictures do you take during our session?
While there’s no limit to the number of shots I take during the portrait session, the amount of photos you receive in your gallery is dependent upon the length of the photo shoot and package you choose. You will receive at least 25 fully edited images per 30 minutes of session length. Please see each individual package’s details for more information.
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Should I bring anything to my session?
No other items are required, but we do strongly recommend bringing water in case you or anyone in your group gets thirsty! If there are any props you’d like to incorporate, feel free to bring them along and I’ll see what we can do with them.
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How soon will I receive my photos?
Your full collection will be completed and delivered within 1-2 weeks, although turnaround time may be longer during peak season.
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How do I receive my high-resolution image files?
Once I finish editing your photos, I will upload them to a secure online gallery, from which you can view and download your images.
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What if it rains?
While it doesn’t often rain at my recommended locations, I always hope for the best and prepare for the worst.
Option 1 is to relocate your session to an area of O`ahu where it’s not raining. Option 2 is to re-schedule at no additional charge. If there is no opportunity to relocate or reschedule your session, your booking retainer and your full session fee will be refunded.
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Do you provide any props?
Because my focus is on capturing you and your group’s natural dynamic and interactions, I will not be providing any props. However, you are welcome to bring any props you love and want to incorporate! Popular props include beach toys for toddlers or young children, fun signs, and beach blankets. If you’re unsure about a prop, don’t be afraid to reach out to me before your session and ask.
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How do we pay for our Oahu portrait session?
I require a 50% retainer when we agree upon and reserve your session’s date. That means once I officially schedule you in my calendar, your retainer must be submitted. This retainer goes towards your total package cost. The rest of your portrait session fee will be due the day of your session. All payment will be accepted via credit or debit card through an online payment system.
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