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Big Memories sometimes come in “little” packages and for this family it was their cute daughter Colleen.
This beautiful family flew to Hawaii from NY and found the perfect day for a photo-shoot at our studio in the St. Regis Princeville.
We can’t get over how amazing this family was on their session and also couldn’t help but notice that very special bond between Daddy and his girl. Can you see it? :)
Written by Matt R. (Co-Founder & Managing Partner of Pacific Dream Photography)
In my 6 years of being a photographer, and photographing couples in Hawaii for engagement sessions, or Weddings, I've come across many love stories. None, however, can compare to the one I heard recently. This Love story not only enchanted me and warmed my heart, but it is the type of story that you watch in movies or read about in books. It all began back in High School for Rashelle and Donny. Donny's heart was stolen the moment he met Rashelle his Junior Year. But being his young, shy, high school self the most he could hope for was a glance once in a while from her. As insignificant as that may seem, he was content with that extent of interaction then.
After 3 years they ran into each other at CEU in Price, UT. And Donny felt confident enough to say "hello", exchange some small talk and asked for her number. They occasionally talked and Donny would stop by her work with flowers once in a while. He was stuck on her hard and knew she was the "One". But unfortunately Rashelle held back. While he was determined to not give up, time passed, and Rashelle moved. They still kept in touch from time to time. Donny questioned whether it was worth to continue trying to win her heart, so he moved on. Donny began to date others and so did Rashelle. After a couple of years he heard through the grapevine that Rashelle was engaged to her old High School boyfriend.
Donny was heart broken and this time, he let her know. Two years went by again, and he heard that Rashelle had broken off her engagement a few months after he found out, but now Donny was the one getting married. The tables had turned and now Rashelle was heart broken.
Donny got married April of 2002 and Rashelle got married Oct. 2002. Two years later they met up again for lunch. Donny was still taken back by her beauty and thought "she will always be the One that got away." They both knew that they could not see each other again for the sake of being faithful to their marriages.
2014 came around and Donny sent Rashelle a "happy birthday" text. Then a year later on Donny's birthday she texted back to say "Thank you and Happy Birthday." After almost a decade they decided to meet up again, and their chemistry was unquestionable. Donny got divorced and reached out to Rashelle and found out that she too was getting divorced, this was all in 2015. Donny then realized that perhaps their story wasn't quite over, maybe he would get a second chance. Fairy tales can come true... right?
In April of 2016 they went on a trip for a few days together and they immediately clicked, Donny knew he was still in LOVE with Rashelle and that she was the "ONE" after all. On Nov. 26th, 2016 at sunrise Donny proposed to Rashelle and she said "YES." Some LOVE stories take months to come together but this one took 19 years. A slight detour well worth taking.
Wedding is set to take place in July of 2017.
For some tips on arranging your own engagement photos, please check out this blog.
Written by Francys T. (Pacific Dream Photography at the Grand Hyatt Kauai)
Do you have a headcount of more than seven for your next photo session? No need to fear. While getting group photos to look professional can be a challenge, with the right light, location and the burst of a shutter, Pacific Dream Photography can make it easy. So, go ahead and get the whole family together, or invite your friends because with Pacific Dream, the motto is, “the more, the merrier!” Find below some tips to take the best group photos possible.
1. Find even, soft light: While locating a spot that will both look nice and administer good light for a lot of people can be hard, it is the most important step while taking large group photos. While shooting outdoors, hard and or directional light can be unflattering and result to uneven exposure while some people are blanketed with different brightness levels of light. To avoid this, you need to find a spot that will cover everyone’s faces in the same light so that nobody has awkward spots of sun, and nobody is in dark shadows while the others are in brightness. This will lead to a more cohesive, professional looking image. That being said, many times, your best bet will be to find open shade. This will be somewhere that everyone may look their best without squinting at the sun, or being dappled with heavy light or shadow. Take a look at these examples.
So, don’t exclude anyone! Get the whole family together or ask your friends to tag along at your session because our photographers are certain to make your memories with ALL of your loved ones last a lifetime.
Written by Paige W. (Pacific Dream Photography at the Montage Laguna Beach)
Every couple has places that they visit that hold a special meaning. Perhaps it’s close to home, a space that’s safe and sound. Or maybe it’s somewhere far away from familiarity that’s becomes a whole new magical sanctuary for you to explore. To many couples, Kauai’s mysterious, romantic atmosphere has made it an intimate island for them to visit, and even say "I Do." For the Michaels, they made this summer a time to return to the enchanting space where they began their life as husband and wife. They shared vow renewals as thier children touched their toes in the Kauai beach sand.
As time passes, we all evolve. In some seasons, our lives make changes in leaps and bounds, whereas other times we just get to relax and feel the salty breeze. This wonderful married couples family has grown, it’s two charming new members giggled while we shared the moments we captured with them before they returned home to California.
“I can’t wait to bring my husband here!” Exclaimed 6-year-old Sophie when she saw her parent’s laughter and tears. To share a special place you’ve found in the world with those who have a special place in your heart is the most beautiful thing you can do. We are so honored to have been able to witness that moment of sharing this summer with them.
Written by Anna B. (Pacific Dream Photography at the St. Regis Princeville)
As a photographer, it is crucial to understand what makes a great photo. Here’s the good news, anyone can make a great photograph. The key to capturing great images is the consistency in each photo. Here at Pacific Dream Photography, we have compiled a list of qualities that make good photos great! Here are the six qualities that make up great photographs.
Written by Julia P. (Pacific Dream Photography at the St. Regis Princeville)
Southern California is known for it’s yearlong sunshine and warm weather. It’s not often that we experience rain or other extreme weather. This is the primary reason people travel near and far to the Montage Laguna Beach to indulge in the California sun. However, although it’s rare, sometimes we do receive a little bit of rain every once in a while in Orange County! This is no reason to fret. Our team of professional photographers will still be able to make your stay at the Montage stress free and still get those amazing photos that you’re looking for. Here are a few things to keep in mind when preparing for your photo shoot in the rain:
1) Don’t forget the umbrellas! While strolling around property or walking along the beach, having a prop such as an umbrella adds a carefree and fun look to your photos. It also adds a nice color pop if there is some cloud coverage.
2) Our properties are beautiful, inside and out! Especially around the holidays, Montage Laguna Beach is decorated head to toe in holly, decorative lights, and poinsettias. So if the rain gets to be too much outside, there are plenty of options to take gorgeous photos inside of the resort. Whether it is near the tree or cuddled up next to the fireplace, there is no shortage of opportunities for the perfect photo.
3) Our cameras can handle a little rain. Believe it or not, most cameras are built with a weather resistant coating. This means that as long as it’s not pouring outside, we are up for a rainy shoot as long as you are!
Considering all of these things, don’t let a little rain prevent you from capturing your travels here in Southern Orange County. Throw on some rain boots and a warm scarf, and leave the rest up to us. For more tips on planning a successful shoot check out our blog on lighting.
Written By Savannah S. (Assistant Creative Director/ Photographer at Montage Laguna Beach)
Whether you’re attending a wedding, charity event, or just need an excuse to buy that brand new dress, Pacific Dream Photography is here to help capture you and your loved ones looking your very best. While most photo shoots opt for semi-casual looks, some of our favorite sessions have included formal wear complete with tuxes and bow ties, floor length gowns and everything in between. It is no question that there is something truly special about capturing your luxurious stay at The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel in an outfit that is just as nice your stay. Here are some options and ideas for your formal photo shoot.
So, make a reservation and get your best outfit ready because your Pacific Dream photo session is guaranteed to be picture perfect!
Written by Paige W. (Pacific Dream Photography at the Ritz Carlton-Laguna Niguel)
At the Andaz at Wailea if there is one thing we know it's how to capture beautiful photos of couples.
Each month we shoot dozens of couples who have come to the Andaz for a romantic getaway, surprise proposal, weddings, honeymoons, baby moons, birthdays, anniversaries, you name it.
Here are a few tips we recommend when thinking about posed, candid, playful, intimate, and romantic shots.
Your photographer will take a variety of shots and will guide you on how to pose and what to do in front of the camera. Sometimes we get stuck in thinking that we must look directly at the camera and smile. To capture a wide variety of poses your photographer will give you suggestions on how to interact with each other, you can try to whisper something funny in your partners ear, walk along the beach looking out to the water, a kiss on the forehead or cheek (don't forget to close your eyes!), or a playful spin, all add natural moments and memories to your shoot. Try as many of these as you'd like and don't be afraid to make suggestions that will bring out the unique qualities of your special bond.
Some of our favorite shots of couples happen when they forget the camera and simply laughing with each other in between shots. Candid shots are more natural and tend to have a look and feel that is uniquely you. Feel free to let your photographer know if you prefer candids. we can always stand a few feet away while you take the lead and snap away to get the perfect shot.
Prior to your shoot have a look at Pinterest where there is a plenty of images to inspire. Try searching boards that relate to couple photo sessions / portraits / photo shoots / photography / etc and feel free to pin your favorite shots to your own mood board that you can show your photographer on your smartphone the day of your shoot. This will help your photographer understand your personal taste and the style of photos you love.
Enjoying your Experience Session in the beautiful island paradise of Maui is the most important part. We love making your trip and occasion even more special with the memories we capture.
Written by Sarah S. (Pacific Dream Photography at the Andaz at Wailea)
Food photography has become increasingly popular especially for social media sites. If you’re looking to brush up on your food photography skills, there are a few things you should know. Here at the Montage Laguna Beach, food photography is vital to marketing new, and flavorful dishes.
The presentation of the dish is the most important to perfect prior to photographing. A colorful dish with depth and variety will bring a dynamic look. Creating a dish with different textures and layers will add to the depth when you begin photographing. It’s also important to pay attention to the cleanliness of the dish itself surrounding the food.
Placement is key in food photography. This includes placement of the food on the plate as well as the placement of the entire dish. Where the food sits on the plate as well as the type of plate will affect the photo drastically. Using spoons, eye-drops, etc to place sauces can significantly help the overall appearance. At the Montage Laguna Beach, chefs use tweezers and eye drops to place food/sauces, leaving your dish flawless.
When choosing where to place the entire dish, think of the lighting that will best work for the type of dish. Do you need romantic lighting or bright and colorful? Take notice of the colors of your dish and try to set it next to something that will make the colors standout.
Since food is an inanimate object, bringing life and movement to the photo is unique and beautiful. Capture a photo of soup being poured, or spices being sprinkled. Movement will bring your food alive and allow for a unique shot.
Next time your at a restaurant, snap a quick picture and see if you can bring these tips alive. Or if you have a corporate event, leave it to us to capture the spirit of your evening.
Written by Alesha D. (Pacific Dream Photography at the Montage Laguna Beach)
If you could take a vacation, where would you go? If you ask us, stay at the St. Regis Princeville located in Kauai, Hawaii. The St. Regis offers a vacation experience like no other. Between the lush scenery, impeccable dining options, and luxurious accommodations, the St. Regis provides a captivating reality. Here are the top six reasons why you must stay at the St. Regis Princeville.
Written by Julia P. (Pacific Dream Photography at the St. Regis Princeville)
