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Wedding Planning

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 […]

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 […]

Drone view of reception tables at Cafe Julia courtyard in Hawaii

Unexpected & Aesthetic Places for a Wedding Reception in Hawaii

When it comes to planning a wedding reception in Hawaii, the possibilities go far beyond traditional ballrooms and beachfront resorts. Whether you envision an intimate dinner party with city skyline views or a lively, open-air celebration with lush tropical surroundings, Oahu offers some stunning and unexpected venues for a stylish and memorable wedding reception. As […]

The Best Hawaii Wedding Venues (from a Local Photographer’s Perspective)

If you’ve ever typed “venues for a wedding near me” into Google, you’re in the right place. As someone who lives on Oahu and photographs weddings across the islands, I’ve been lucky to work in some truly unforgettable places. From cinematic cliffs to tucked-away courtyards, Hawaii holds so much more than what’s offered in a […]

The hau tree honolulu restaurant evoking european coastal vibes for this reception dinner

European-Style Wedding Venues on Oahu for a Modern Destination Wedding

Film Photos Tell a Story Dreaming of a European-inspired wedding but drawn to the tropical allure of Oahu? You’re not alone. Oahu offers a range of wedding venues with European architectural charm and sophisticated details, making it the perfect backdrop for couples seeking a modern twist on a classic destination wedding. Here are some of […]

Wedding Couple Posing for a photo, kissing each other.

How to Feel Comfortable in Front of the Camera on Your Wedding Day

Posing and Prompting Your wedding day is one of the most important and photographed days of your life. Naturally, it’s easy to feel a bit nervous about being in front of the camera. The good news is that with a little preparation and some helpful tips, you can look and feel your best while enjoying […]

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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.

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