A Romantic & Candid Maui Photoshoot: Celebrating the Journey to Parenthood

A Romantic & Candid Maui Photoshoot for a Couple on the Brink of Parenthood

 

When Dat and Michelle reached out to me for a Maui couples photoshoot, they were looking to capture something incredibly meaningful: the last chapter of life before they welcome their first child. As a local Maui photographer specializing in family, couples, wedding, and elopement photography, this is the kind of session I live for—personal, heartfelt, and filled with real connection.

 

They wanted more than just pretty pictures. They wanted a story. And that’s exactly what we created.

 

From Oahu Engagement to Maui Maternity: A Hawaiian Full Circle Moment

 

Dat and Michelle’s journey together began over eight years ago through online dating. From concerts and travel to adopting their dog Ollie and building a life filled with shared values and love, their relationship is a testament to growth, balance, and deep affection.

 

They got engaged in Oahu in the summer of 2021 and married in February 2023. Now expecting their first baby in January, they decided to return to the islands—this time to Maui—for a maternity photoshoot that would mark the beginning of their next chapter.

 

 

Candid, Colorful, and Full of Heart

 

As a Maui photographer who loves candids and natural light, I knew right away how to bring their vision to life. They asked for a blend of fun, romantic, and soulful imagery—with a focus on feeling comfortable, casual, and guided. Perfect.

Michelle is a bit more introverted, while Dat brings the extroverted spark—and together, they balance each other beautifully. Their chemistry was effortless. We laughed a lot, kept things relaxed, and created a space where they could just be themselves.

 

We focused on:

• Intimate and romantic couple portraits

• Lighthearted candid moments (with lots of laughter)

• Safe but meaningful maternity poses that highlighted Michelle’s beautiful glow

• Playful, fun storytelling moments to reflect their personalities

They wanted mostly color images—and with that golden Maui light, we were able to create photos full of warmth and vibrance.

 

 

Making It Feel Like a Date Night on the Beach

 

To keep the mood relaxed and fun (just the way they like it), we treated the shoot like a casual, candid date night on the sand. We leaned into humor, gave simple direction when needed, and embraced the little quirks that make them… them. Michelle even joked about her hair having a mind of its own, so we made sure to check in between shots—because those little details matter.

 

It wasn’t about perfection. It was about connection.

 

 

Why This Session Was So Special

 

This shoot was more than a celebration of pregnancy—it was a love letter to their journey as a couple. As they look back on these photos 20 years from now, I hope they feel the joy of this season: the anticipation, the love, the laughter, and the quiet moments before everything changes.

As a Maui maternity photographer, it’s an honor to document stories like these—honest, emotional, and unforgettable.

 

 

Looking for a Couples or Maternity Photographer in Maui?

 

Whether you’re on a babymoon, celebrating an anniversary, or just want to capture this season of life with your person, I’d love to tell your story.

 

I specialize in:
✅ Candid Couples Photography in Maui
✅ Maternity Photoshoots on Maui
✅ Elopement + Wedding Photography
✅ Family + Vacation Photography in Hawaii

 

Serving Wailea, Kihei, Lahaina, Kapalua & more.