Journal

The

CATEGORIES 

Three-tier white wedding cake with bright tropical flowers on a pink table at Loulu Palm in Hawaii.

Why Hiring a Hawaii-Based Wedding Photographer Matters More Than You Think

Hiring local means more than just proximity. From light and terrain to timeline flow and cultural care, here’s why choosing a Hawaii-based photographer matters.

Oceanview wedding ceremony at Kualoa Ranch Paliku Gardens in Oahu, Hawaii with palm trees and lush florals

Film vs. Digital Wedding Photography: What’s the Difference & Which Is Right for You?

The Artistic Journey That Changed How I Photograph Weddings For me, film isn’t just a format — it’s a feeling. When I first introduced film into my wedding workflow, it wasn’t because I thought it was trendy. It was because something in me craved a slower, more intentional pace. I wanted to feel the weight […]

Amari Marie self-portrait holding camera in minimalist studio arch

Inside My Website Rebrand: Honest Storytelling & Editorial Feel

Behind My Site Makeover I’ve never fully felt at home in my branding. There were pieces of it that worked. Pieces that were beautiful. But it always felt like a version of me — not the real me. For a long time, I couldn’t explain what exactly felt “off.” I didn’t have the words to […]

Close-up of a bride with glowing skin, dewy makeup, and soft neutral tones, showcasing healthy wedding day skin

The Ultimate Bridal Skincare Timeline: What to Do & When

Hello, Radiant You. Whether you’re walking down the aisle in six months or six weeks, there’s one thing every bride (and groom!) wants on their wedding day: to feel confident, fresh, and like the very best version of themselves. Skincare isn’t about altering who you are — it’s about preserving and enhancing the beauty that’s […]

Bride and groom embracing during their Oahu wedding, captured in an editorial documentary style.

Heat-Proof Hair: Wedding Styles That Hold Up in Humid Climates

If you’re planning a wedding in a tropical or humid destination like Hawaii, Bali, or the Southern U.S., you’ve probably already wondered: how is my hair going to hold up in all that heat and humidity? The truth is—humidity is no joke. It can flatten, frizz, or unravel even the most stunning hairstyles if you […]

Soft-focus photo of a modern airplane cabin window with bright natural light and gentle bokeh in the background, evoking a clean and calming atmosphere

How to Reset Your Skin After a Long Flight: Travel Skincare Tips That Actually Work

Long flights can wreck your skin. From dryness to breakouts, here’s a simple post-flight skincare routine that helps you bounce back fast—with tips from a frequent traveler.

Bride and groom holding hands during golden hour at Sunset Ranch, a scenic coastal wedding venue in Oahu, Hawaii, surrounded by rocky cliffs and ocean waves.

Why a Thoughtful Wedding Day Timeline Matters for Photography

Why a Thoughtful Wedding Day Timeline Matters for Photography You spend months dreaming up your day — the look, the energy, the people. But even the most aesthetic wedding needs something unsexy to support the magic: a solid timeline. As a hybrid photographer who works in both digital and film, I can tell you with […]

Flat lay of black groom’s dress shoes, untied bow tie, cufflinks, and boutonnière on wedding day, captured on 35mm film

How to Choose the Right Film Format for Wedding Photography: 35mm vs Medium Format

Introduction: Why Film Format Still Matters If you’ve been flirting with the idea of incorporating film into your wedding photography, you’re not alone. Film photography is having a moment — not just for the nostalgia, but for the undeniable texture and emotion it brings. Whether you’re leaning toward 35mm for its candid flexibility or medium […]

Do Photographers Charge for Travel? What to Know Before Booking

Because destination weddings deserve transparency, beauty, and thoughtful planning. You found your dream photographer. Maybe they’re based in a different state or even a different coast. But their work feels like you. Their energy feels right. And their images? Exactly the kind of timeless, editorial meets documentary beauty you’re envisioning. But then comes the question […]

In the Mood

Consider this your blog playlist. Search the blog or browse some of the top searches / categories below.

FREE DOWNLOAD

The Budget Bible: A Modern Guide to Wedding Budget Priorities

Download the full free guide

FREE DOWNLOAD

We can't wait to share this with you! Keep an eye on emails you should see it within the next 48 hours.

ABOUT the Author

I’m Amari — imagery-driven, story-obsessed, and your quietly confident guide behind the lens and the mic.

I thought we all needed a place to gather around a great cocktail, take off the “shoulds,” and talk like we mean it. This is the blog for the in-between moments — the late-night scrolls, the big questions, the quiet clarity. I’m Amari — wedding photographer, visual editor, occasional dress designer, and always deep in thought about why we create what we do.

More About Us

as seen in:

A curated mix of my latest work and the moments behind it.

Follow Along

Quick takes, tips, and the wedding day energy you’ll want to replay.

Let's Get Casual

My edit of trusted favorites — consider it your style guide.

Shop with Me