Sunrise or Sunset? || Couple and Family Photography Sessions at the Grand Hyatt Kauai

One of the most important options to consider when booking your reservation with Pacific Dream Photography is whether to choose a sunrise or a sunset time. For some of us, who aren’t early risers, the sunset time is an easy choice; although, the sunrise light is exceptional! Here at the Grand Hyatt, Kauai, there are advantages and disadvantages to each time.

The sunrise session is one of our personal favorites. The quality of light is gorgeous! You’ll notice a crisp quality of light, soft flattering skin tones, and a rose gold hue to the color, on some occasions. It is also important to consider the metaphors associated with a sunrise, for example: new beginnings. If you will be joining us celebrating something like an engagement or baby-moon, you might want to consider this time. It can also be a little more private with less people on the beach.

Typically, the sunset session is the most desired time. The light is rich and golden with saturated colors and strong contrast, making for striking imagery. The sun sets in the west and lights up a golden Shipwrecks beach cliff, creating a beautiful color contrast between the blue sky and ocean. The one possible downside to a sunset session is that there might be more people on the beach, and in the background of your photos.

So, choose wisely! You can’t go wrong with either choice; but we certainly want to capture you the way you’d like to be remembered.

- Written by Michael (Pacific Dream Photography at The Grand Hyatt Kauai)

Surprise Wedding Proposal Photography in Kauai

What do you get when you combine one of the most important, romantic and nerve-racking experiences all into one event? A surprise engagement, of course!

On September 2nd, Cesar flew out from Houston, Texas to the Grand Hyatt Kauai, Hawaii to propose to his girlfriend. Stacy, Cesar’s significant other, was completely clueless. She was invited to spend some girl time and vacation with Cesar’s mother and sister for a few days. 

In these photos you can see Cesar waiting for his soon-to-be fiancée. He even hid in the bushes! 

They had been having a great time together, going out to dinner, relaxing, and enjoying the lush ancient majestic beauty that is Kauai. Cesar realized early on that this was the perfect opportunity to propose.

Now, Stacy and Cesar’s mother had no idea, but Cesar’s sister was in on it the whole time. The two of them coordinated with the weddings department at the Hyatt and reserved the Grand Lawn Gazebo, where many of the Hyatt weddings take place, overlooking the beautiful Shipwreck's beach and ocean. 

An invitation was sent to Stacy and family to attend a reception of sorts. Confused and unknowing, they gladly accepted to spend an evening sipping champagne and watching the sunset. 

The scene was set. The table was laid out with champaign and leis. You couldn’t imagine a more perfect evening. It was warm with a slight breeze and you could hear the birds chirping.  The sun began to set.

Cesar crouched, hidden behind the bushes. The sun continued to set, almost down below the horizon.

Where is Stacy? Five minutes go by, then ten, then fifteen, then twenty! "Where are they!?" You could feel the tension painted on Cesar’s face. 

The Grand Lawn Gazebo at the Grand Hyatt is the home of countless of weddings per year.

Finally, they arrive and begin walking towards the gazebo. Cesar, unable to restrain himself, leaps out of the bushes. Startled, shocked, and delighted Cesar and Stacy run to each other and embrace.

When Cesar pointed out where we were hiding... surprise proposal captured paparazzi-style!

Cesar walks her over to the gazebo, places a lei around her neck, and bends down onto one knee. Speech in mind, ring hidden under the table, Cesar begins to propose… She says yes!

They continue to spend the next couple days together enjoying each others company, eating out, going on a boat tour along the awe-inspiring Napali Coast, in love.

- written by Michael (Pacific Dream Photography at the Grand Hyatt in Kauai)