Aloha loves!
My name is Rachel & I have been photographing couples, elopements, intimate weddings, proposals, vow renewals, entrepreneurs, retreats, maternity & families since 2017. I'm based on Kauai, Hawaii & love to travel.
I received a Professional Photography Diploma in 2014 from the Photography Institute and continue to take workshops. My goal is to continuously learn & grow with my art & business.
Are you looking for a photographer who can capture candid movement & emotion but can also gently direct you to get "the shot". More than just someone to show up on your day, I am your Kauai connection, happy to share knowledge of my favorite vendors, restaurants, cute shops, hikes & beaches.
I love including the powerful elements of ocean, sky, mountains, flowers & plants that also tell the story of the mana (energy) of these islands.
Are you the kind of person who wants to get in the water towards the end of a photo session? Hike with your love to exchange vows at a beautiful spot?
Want to find a secluded location to propose at? Have a family session filled with beautiful flowers, not matching aloha shirts?
If you were nodding your head, I am your girl. I am also your girl if you prefer a spectacular spot that is easily accessible... Kauai has it all.
I would love to help you with your plan & look forwards to hearing your vision!!!
TELL ME YOUR STORY
and let's create something beautiful together!
But first, I will tell you mine.
I'm from a tiny, Island off the West coast of BC, Canada. I was raised to have a deep connection to the land, to nature & the ocean. To art & creativity as a way of life. To light & the way it plays across landscapes.
I have lived in Hawaii since 2016 & am so grateful to call Kauai home!!! I absolutely love the ocean, people, dancing, music & cooking delicious food for friends & family. When I'm not at home with my love working on projects you can find me hiking, biking or relaxing on the beach with a good book.
I met my Husband, Goran while I was studying Massage on Kauai. Eight months later he got down on one knee on a sand dune in the Mojave desert, while we were on a road trip. We returned home & eloped on Kauai in 2016, with just our two moms present. I know first hand how special & unique creating your elopement ceremony is. The best thing about it is its your day, your way.
I am so grateful that you are here & I look forwards connecting & creating together. Please put in an inquiry through the Inquire button below. My dates book out in advance so I do recommend planning ahead as much as possible.
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Can you recommend any florists, hair & makeup artists & other vendors?Yes! Definitely. I have incredible local artists and florists I work with and am happy to refer. Just ask & I will share my preferred vendor list!
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How will I receive my images?I deliver your edited, full resolution images in a private online gallery sent via email. You can download, print, share as you like. You can also create high quality wall art and prints right from within the gallery.
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How long till we receive our gallery?My turnaround time for portrait sessions (couples, families, maternity etc...) is 4 weeks. My turn around time for Elopements & Vow Renewals is 4-6 weeks. I do always aim to send out a sneak peek of 3-5 images from your gallery within a few days.
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What happens if it rains during our session?The weather on Kauai can change so fast! Usually if it starts raining, ten minutes later we will be blessed with a rainbow. I do continue to shoot in light rain. If its raining really hard and our schedules allow I am happy to reschedule. I also check the weather diligently leading up to your session & if we can pivot to a sunny side of the island I am always flexible. Will pack some umbrellas too if its looking like we're going to get a little sprinkle. Some of the most beautiful sessions have been with a little rain & the couples, families embracing it & still having lots of fun & getting beautiful images. Kauai is known for being a lush & wet place after all.
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What time do you like to do your sessions?I love to shoot first thing in the morning as locations are quiet, the light is so flattering & it isn't as hot. If you're not into early mornings I love the light quality an hour before sunset.
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What should I wear to my session?I always suggest wearing something that makes you feel fabulous. Mixing earthy neutrals and solids look really good if you have a larger group. For families it can be really helpful to pull one piece (ie dress) that has a colorful pattern, then pull colors out of that pattern & create the other outfits with solid colors based around that palette. You can really mix it up & it will look great. For elopements a dress or veil that creates movement in the wind is always fun. Also heals in the sand are really tricky.
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What should I bring to my session?Please travel light. Bring some water or something to drink. If you are wanting to get into the water at the end of the session then leave a towel and change of clothes in your car.
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Do you photograph families with kids & what are your tips & tricks for a great session with littles?I do love photographing families. Here are a few tips for a fabulous session with kids: Get the kids excited about the session, let them know you are planning something fun & help get spirits high before the session. Make sure they are well fed & well rested. Bribery?! Pack a little treat, or favorite snack to pull out if needed. Let them play & be themselves. Have fun getting them ready so everyone is relaxed & not feeling stressed. Focus on the love you have for each other, not perfection & it will be a beautiful experience for everyone.
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Do you photograph LGBTQ+ elopements & couples?Yes! Definitely, love is love & I'm here for it all.
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Do you book photo sessions in other locations besides Kauai?Yes! I am available for travel to the other Hawaiian islands. I add on airfare, car rental & accomodations if needed. I book a limited amount of sessions & elopements each year on the West coast of Canada & California as my Husband & I do travel to visit family each year. Just ask!