Maui Family Photos on the Beach: Sunrise or Sunset?

Capture the magic of your Maui family vacation with stunning beach photos at sunrise or sunset. Maui’s pristine beaches, gentle waves, and breathtaking landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for creating lifelong memories!

The question we’re most frequently asked about family beach photoshoots on Maui? What time of day to choose! The truth is, it’s up to you. Our team emphasize the importance of enjoyment – when will your family have the best chance to let go and enjoy? The soft, pastel hues of a Maui sunrise painting the sky as your family splashes on the shoreline? Or the romantic colors of a Maui sunset casting a sweet glow as you stroll along the water’s edge? Whether you choose the tranquility of the early morning or the enchantment of an afternoon session, our Maui photographer team can perfectly capture your family on this beautiful island.

Under the guidance of our skilled photographers your family can relax and enjoy the beach while our team capture genuine moments. During your Maui family photos on the beach we encourage you to let go and let your family photoshoot unravel organically. This way, our team will create not only beautiful photos, and ones with wonderful memories attached.

What to consider when choosing the time of day for your photoshoot

When planning a family photoshoot on the beautiful beaches of Maui, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to schedule it at sunrise or sunset. Both times of day offer their own unique advantages, so it’s important to consider a few key factors before making your choice.

Advantages of sunrise photoshoots

A sunrise photoshoot on Maui’s beaches can be a truly magical experience. Our editing brings out the soft, cool light that bathes the surroundings and creates a dreamy atmosphere. Perfect for capturing tranquil moments, sunrise is a go-to for couples, babymooners, proposals and families. The beach is less crowded during the early morning. This allows more space for your family to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Another advantage of a sunrise photoshoot is that it will end in time for breakfast at a nearby cafe, and give you the opportunity to experience a Maui beach in a way you may not have otherwise.

Advantages of sunset photoshoots

While sunrise photoshoots have their own charm, sunset sessions offer their own enchantment. The potentially vibrant colors of a Maui sunset create a romantic and ethereal atmosphere. This adds a touch of magic to your family photos. The often warm, golden light falls beautifully for Maui family photos at the beach, creating stunning silhouettes against the backdrop of the beach. 

Sunset photoshoots also offer the advantage of more time to prepare. With a later start time, you have more flexibility. You will also not incur potential early rise fees for services such as hair and makeup. Additionally, sunset sessions will end around dinner time. A quick change of clothes, and you’re ready to enjoy dinner out just minutes away from your shoot location.

Factors to consider when deciding between sunrise and sunset

When deciding between a sunrise or sunset photoshoot, there are several factors to consider. One of the main considerations is the preference and energy levels of your family members. If you have young children who are typically more active in the morning, a sunrise session may be more suitable. On the other hand, if you have teens who prefer to sleep in, a sunset session is a better fit.

Time of year is a big one. Sunrise sessions in winter meet on Maui just before 7am. In summer, however, sunrise meets before 6am. Keep in mind if you book early in your stay (say, the first 1-2 days), the time difference coming from the mainland will likely have you up before the crack of dawn anyway. 

Another factor to consider is the wind. Afternoon tradewinds will pick up at sunset. If you’re concerned about hair blowing in your face or constant clothing adjustment, opt for sunrise.

Tips for a successful Maui family photoshoot on the beach

To ensure a successful and enjoyable Maui family photoshoot on the beach, here are some helpful tips:

1. Coordinate outfits. Choose outfits that complement each other and the beach setting. Consider wearing colors that harmonize with the natural surroundings, such as blues, greens, or neutrals. Avoid busy patterns, logos and clashing colors that may distract from the main focus – your family.

2. Time management. Arrive early to the location or scout it the day before. This allows time for any necessary preparations and to familiarize yourself with the surroundings. This will help you feel more relaxed and comfortable during the photoshoot. We find this especially important with small children. If they haven’t experienced the beach before, familiarizing them with the area can prove useful.

3. Embrace candid moments. While posed shots can be beautiful, don’t be afraid to let loose. By doing so, our team capture candid moments of laughter, playfulness, and genuine connection. These unscripted moments often make for the most memorable and authentic photos. The memories attached to your family’s photoshoot will be just as important as the phtoos themselves. If this means letting them get a little sandy and playing around to get comfortable – just do it!

4. Relax and enjoy. Remember that the purpose of the photoshoot is to capture your family’s love and connection. Relax, have fun, and trust in the expertise of your photographer to capture those special moments.

Finding the perfect location for your photoshoot

Maui offers an abundance of beautiful beach locations for your family photoshoot. Here are a few popular spots to consider:

1. South Maui: Our team are based in Wailea/Kihei or South Maui. If you’re staying in West Maui and don’t mind the drive, we encourage you to shoot with us here!

2. West Maui: Our team are available to shoot in West Maui/Kapalua. There is a small travel fee associated with this location in our 30 minute package. Travel to West Maui is free with our 45 minute and 1 hour sessions.

Remember to consider factors such as accessibility, amenities, and the time of day when choosing your location. Discuss your preferences with us before your book, as we may have additional recommendations based on your desired outcome.

Hiring a professional photographer for your Maui family photos

To ensure the best possible outcome for your Maui family photos, it’s recommended to hire a professional photographer who specializes in family beach sessions. A skilled photographer will have the expertise to capture your family’s unique dynamics and create compositions that highlight your connection and the beauty of Maui’s beaches. 

When selecting a photographer, take the time to review their portfolio and read reviews from previous clients. Look for a photographer who understands your vision and has experience working with families. Communication is key, so be sure to discuss your expectations, desired locations, and any specific shots you have in mind. Our team are here to serve you and make your beach photoshoot effortlessly fun – reach out!

Editing and preserving your Maui family photos

Once our team photograph your Maui family photoshoot, the journey has just begun! Editing is a huge part of our workflow. It plays a crucial role in enhancing the beauty of your photos and creating a cohesive collection. All images our team photographs are edited and processed by Shawn (that’s me). This means your post-processing is in great hands, and the same ones every time!

After the editing is done, we’ll send your gallery through to select your favorite images. We only deliver the best. Who wants hundreds of so-so images to choose from when you could pick faves from 60-100 fully edited images? Once your gallery is delivered, you have the option to choose. Either flag your favorites or upgrade to the entire gallery shown for $150. A print release is included. Your downloaded images can be printed, framed, and displayed in your home as a beautiful reminder of your Maui vacation. Consider creating a photo album or a canvas collage to showcase your favorite moments.

Conclusion: Capturing beautiful memories on Maui’s beaches

Whether you choose a sunrise or sunset photoshoot, capturing your family’s memories on Maui’s beaches is an experience you’ll cherish for a lifetime. The effortlessly beautiful landscapes, beautiful light, and gentle waves create the perfect backdrop for creating beautiful and authentic images.

By considering the advantages of each time of day, planning ahead, and hiring a professional photographer, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable photoshoot. Book your Maui family photo session with our team now! We’ll let the beauty of the island and the love of your family shine through in stunning beach photographs.