Photos are a portal to happy memories, a way to relive and reflect on the love and bliss shared in the moment. That makes your wedding photographer selection one of the most important bookings when planning your destination wedding in Hawaii!
Most couples don’t realize just how much time will be spent with your photographer. They are capturing all the special moments and guiding you throughout the wedding day.
When choosing your photographer be sure to consider the following:
- Know your style and your desired photography aesthetic. Do you want formal or contemporary? Light or dark tones? Candid or classic poses? A mix of color and black-and-white photos? Do research online and create a Pinterest board of photography you love.
- Follow potential photographers on social media, check out their websites and read reviews. This is a fast and convenient way to see and learn more about each photographer, and view examples of the work they post. Look for inspiration from photo galleries of a similar venue.
- Get in touch. Discuss the photographer’s wedding day approach, availability and pricing, details for timeline and deliverables.
Now it’s time to make your decision.
Above all else, select a professional photographer who truly jives with your visual style and your personality. Do you click? Is there a genuine connection? You must feel completely comfortable with your photographer, and it’s incredibly helpful to get to know them better.
Interview with Maui Wedding Photographer – Rodrigo Moraes Photography
We’ve compiled an interview with lead photographer, Rodrigo Moraes, to discover his beginnings in the industry, the 2022 photography trends he is anticipating, and some of his favorite venues to shoot.
- When did you move to Hawaii? And where did you grow up?
I’m originally from Santos, Brazil, a small city by the beach. I moved to Maui in March 2003, and I wanted to spend an entire year surfing. That one-year surf trip, soon extended to the past 19 years!
- How were you first introduced to the world of photography?
I was always interested in taking pictures, bought my first digital camera at the age of 17, and started photographing my life and things I’d do with my family and friends. But after moving to Maui, I purchased my first DSLR camera and started photographing nature, sunsets, and Hawaiian landscapes.
- How long have you been a wedding photographer?
I shot my first wedding in 2014, at a beach in Lahaina. And I’ve never stopped since!
- How would you describe your style and storytelling approach?
I’m all about documenting the story of the day, not just taking individual photos. I like to interfere as little as possible but as much as necessary to help my clients create photogenic moments with the best lighting.
- What are some hobbies/activities you love outside of photography?
During the pandemic, I developed a huge interest in DJ’ing and love it! Cycling and surfing are my go-to activities here in Maui, but I enjoy anything outdoors really.
- Where has been your favorite place that your career has taken you?
I’d say Ireland and Northern Ireland. It was an amazing experience. So beautiful and the people were super cool. Amazing photography.
- Any Wedding Ceremony Tips to share?
Stay present and remember where you are and why you’re there. Hear the sounds around you, the ocean, the trees in the wind, the birds. Exchange personal vows. Don’t worry about the audience. They all love you.
- Should brides make a must-shoot list?
If they really want to, but I don’t encourage it. I like to let my creativity flow. And in my experience, I will definitely get all those “must shoot” wedding photos couples love.
- Any recommendations about keeping the wedding on schedule?
Make sure your wedding planner creates a timeline for your wedding day. I can help. One reminder though, it won’t be perfect. Stay flexible, as there always points in the day that run longer.
- What type of photography package do you recommend for couples?
My packages for wedding photography start at (6) hours. I believe that’s the least amount of time I need to tell a complete story. But I also offer (8) and (10) hour collections.
For elopement photography, I offer a (3) hour package which includes getting ready photos, the ceremony and bride and groom portraits.
Also, a (5) hour elopement package is available, if there are other activities the couples want documented prior to, or after the ceremony. Things like hitting the town for some drinks or an intimate dinner.
- Favorite wedding venues in Maui, Hawaii?
I love Olowalu Plantation House, it’s vintage aesthetic, and the many locations on property we can use for photos. We don’t need to travel off-site. We always capture gorgeous images here.
Other top favorites that I love shooting weddings at include: Hotel Wailea, Paia Surf Club, Hui No’eau, and Travaasa in Hana.
- Any wedding venue you'd love to work with next year?
Haiku Mill. It’s a beautiful venue and I would love to see how my colors work there.
- What wedding trends are you excited about in 2022?
I’m excited for the long wedding weekends, and multiple event weddings. This provides great content to tell the perfect wedding story for my clients.
I’m also looking forward to the 2022 wedding boom in general, and destination weddings being held inside the US, specifically Hawaii. I can’t wait for a great year ahead.
Share this story
Tags
