Young Love – John & Riley’s Big Island Proposal Portrait
Quiet moments often carry the most meaning. And John’s Big Island proposal portrait for Riley was one of those moments. Thoughtfully planned and beautifully understated, it unfolded in a way that felt natural, intentional, and completely true to who they are together.
Both John and Riley had visited the Big Island before, so this trip wasn’t about discovering something new, it was about marking a turning point. After five and a half years together, their future is coming into focus. Riley has one semester of college left, John is working full time, and soon they’ll move in together and officially begin the next chapter of their lives side by side. This proposal felt like the quiet “yes” to everything they’ve been building toward. And we were excited to not only witness the big moment, but also capture it too!
The session had a paparazzi-style feel, candid and effortless, capturing them as they walked the beach and simply existed together. Then, right in the middle of it all, John got down on one knee.
Riley’s reaction was pure joy! She was so surprised and gave us a smile that needed no explanation. She said yes, and suddenly the air felt lighter, the moment bigger, the future closer. It was a touching moment that felt so right in every way. And can we just say how cute it is that they color coordinated? Adorable!
Their story began back in high school, when they shared a class during John’s junior year. Five and a half years later, their connection is deeper, steadier, and filled with intention. These photos captured exactly what mattered most, real emotion, genuine love, and the beginning of forever.
The setting made the moment even more special. At Anaehoʻomalu Bay, the sky was soft and muted, wrapped in gentle tones that made everything feel calm and serene. The ocean moved quietly behind them, the air felt still, and the whole scene carried a peaceful, almost timeless energy.
Congratulations, John and Riley, on a proposal as meaningful as the life you’re building together! We wish you nothing but the best! What a beautiful way to begin the new year!
BIG ISLAND PROPOSAL PORTRAIT – SESSION DETAILS
Time Of Day: Sunset
Big Island Proposal Photographer: Tetiana of Karma Hill Photography
Big Island Portrait Location: Anaehoʻomalu Bay
Memories In Our Hearts – The Gerstein’s Kauai Family Portrait
Some places feel like chapters in your life, the kind you return to again and again because they already know your story. For the Gerstein family, Kauai is one of those places. Having visited many times before, it has become one of their favorite places on earth, woven with happy memories and moments that already
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.
