As Maui family photographers, we’ve learned that the most memorable sessions often happen when families are simply enjoying being together. The Davis ʻohana traveled from Scottsdale, Arizona, to spend their fall break in Maui, and their early morning session near Kaanapali Beach captured their relaxed, easygoing spirit perfectly.
This was the kids’ first trip to Hawaiʻi, and their excitement was contagious. Tyson, 11, and Sloan, 8, had been dreaming of this trip for years, and their parents, Sara and Matt, wanted to celebrate with a family photo session by the water before a full day of ocean adventures.
A Morning by the Ocean
We planned their session at sunrise near the Westin Kaanapali, where the light feels soft and the beach is quiet. Mornings in Maui are ideal for family photos—the wind is gentle, the sand untouched, and the kids are usually full of energy thanks to the time difference.
Sara and Matt brought an easy calm to the shoot. They live in the city, but you could tell how much they value these moments outdoors together. Matt coaches all of the kids’ sports and spends most of his time with them, while Sara balances work and family life with a grounded, warm presence. That natural connection showed in their photos.
Simple, Real Moments
The Davis family wanted photos that felt true to who they are. We mixed a few classic portraits with candid moments of the kids running, playing, and laughing in the water.
These are the kinds of sessions I love most as a Maui family photographer—where the location, light, and energy all come together in a way that feels effortless.
Family Photos in Maui
Maui is one of my favorite places for morning family sessions. The soft light reflects off the ocean, and the view toward Molokaʻi makes for a beautiful backdrop. Since the Davis ʻohana was staying at the Westin, it was the perfect setting for a short drive and a relaxed start to the day.
Before wrapping up, Sara mentioned this session doubled as their Christmas card photo and a way to mark their kids’ first time in Maui—a small tradition that will mean even more when they look back years from now.
Planning Your Maui Family Session
If you’re staying in Kaanapali or nearby Lahaina, a morning session is one of the best ways to capture your time here. The light is beautiful, and the atmosphere feels calm before the beaches fill up.
My approach to family photography in Maui is simple: create space for families to be themselves. I guide lightly, but most of what happens in front of the camera unfolds naturally.
If you’re looking for a Maui family photographer who values real connection and genuine moments, I’d love to help you plan your session.
Contact us today to start planning your photoshoot on Maui!
Please note: The images in this post are optimized for web performance. Your final gallery will include high-resolution photos, perfect for printing and preserving your Maui memories.