There are some stories that feel like they were written in the stars, or, in this case, along the tide pools and golden sands of Paradise Cove. The Chac’s Oahu family portrait session wasn’t just a photoshoot; it was a full-circle kind of magic, the kind you only find in places that hold your heart.
This was their first time back in Hawaii since their dreamy 2022 elopement at Ko’Olina Beach (planned with our sister company, Simple Oahu Wedding, and photographed by yours truly!). That time, it was just the two of them, exchanging vows with their loved ones and the Pacific breeze as witnesses. Fast forward to now, and they returned with a sweet 18-month-old daughter in tow, Junie, who’s part sunshine, part whirlwind, and another little one on the way (due this November!). So much to celebrate!


Paradise Cove was the perfect spot to revisit those memories and make brand-new ones. The setting? Ethereal. Soft golden light, gentle waves, and a beach that seems to know how to hold a family’s laughter like a secret. Junie toddled around in the sand, her giggles floating on the breeze, while Joann and Marcell beamed with that quiet joy only parents know, love, multiplied. How adorable is little Junie?!





And yes, it was a spontaneous idea, but wow, it made the moment even more fun! They laughed and played in the tide pools with their darling girl. Junie was absolutely loving playing and exploring the beach! What a surreal moment for Marcell and Joann, who were married so close by years before?! How could we resist capturing this beautiful, growing family right where their story first began?
These portraits aren’t just pictures; they’re heirlooms of a life unfolding. From proposal to elopement to parenthood, Hawaii has been the backdrop of their biggest chapters. And this one? This one was bright, love-filled, and full of the kind of joy that feels like home.




We were honored to welcome the Chacs back into our lens, and even more honored to capture this new, heart-full chapter. We hope you enjoy sharing the island with your little girl! Lastly, we wish you and your growing family nothing but love and joy! Hope to see you and baby #2 next time!
Time Of Day: Morning
Oahu Portrait Location: Paradise Cove Beach
Oahu Family Photographer: Kelsey from Karma Hill Photography
When Joe reached out to us, he had a plan, a brilliant, heartwarming, sneaky little plan. He told Leilani they were just taking couples portraits on their Hawaii vacation. A fun photo session, nothing out of the ordinary. But hidden behind the casual smiles and hand-holding on the itinerary? A ring and a once-in-a-lifetime surprise
Karma Hill is the owner of Karma Hill Photography, Simple Maui Wedding, Simple Oahu Wedding, and Simple Hawaii Wedding, marking a significant presence in the Hawaii wedding community since 2007. With a wealth of experience and a vast collection of informative posts on weddings and photography in Hawaii, Karma Hill offers unparalleled expertise. Explore the world of photography and wedding planning across Hawaii by visiting Karma's websites.