Picture this Maui family portrait: Southside Beach, the late afternoon light spilling gold over the waves, and a family gathered with every generation represented, from an 87-year-old matriarch to college-aged kids poised to fly into their futures. That was the Phillips’ Maui family portrait session, and it was nothing short of extraordinary.
The Phillipses are Seattle natives, but Maui has become their second home thanks to their Wailea condo. They visit often, but this trip was different: the whole family came along. A milestone trifecta was on the horizon: Grandma glowing at 87, a sister’s 60th birthday, and their son’s college graduation. This was the kind of gathering that feels rare, precious, and worthy of freezing in time. The Phillipses don’t know when they can all get together like this, so this portrait session was even more important to them, as you’ll see!







On the beach, they laughed, hugged, and celebrated. The kids, standing on the edge of adulthood, looked radiant beside their parents, while Grandma’s smile said everything about the joy of having everyone together. This wasn’t just a portrait session; it was a love letter to family.
Family photos often get mislabeled as “cheesy,” but in reality? They’re priceless. They’re living proof of connection, celebration, and heritage. The Phillips know life is about to scatter them: graduations, new beginnings, the unpredictability of schedules. Still, these Maui family portraits will always bring them back to this day on the beach, to the waves, to each other.
Because the truth is, family portraits don’t just honor where you are now. They become treasures that tell your story for decades to come. And for the Phillips, this chapter in Maui will always be remembered in smiles, sand, and sunlight.










As the waves rolled in and the sunset painted the sky, the Phillips family celebrated not just their time together but also some truly special milestones. Congratulations to their son, William, on his college graduation —a moment that marks the beginning of many adventures. And of course, a very Happy 60th Birthday to Mary Ann, what a joy to celebrate such a meaningful year surrounded by family!
These portraits are more than photos; they’re timeless reminders of laughter, love, and legacy. Enjoy your time in Maui!
Time of Day: Sunset
Maui Family Portrait Photographer: Tenessa from Karma Hill Photography
Maui Portrait Location: Southside Beach
Proposals are already emotional roller coasters (the best kind), but when you add in a plan as thoughtful as Sean’s? It became a dream proposal plan! His Kauai proposal portrait to Abby at Shipwrecks Beach had everything: surprise, family, pastel skies, and a love story years in the making. Sean and Abby met as undergrads
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.