Okay, can we talk about the Washkos for a second?
Because this Big Island family portrait session? Absolute gold. It was their very first time in Hawaii, cue the ukulele music and a few happy tears, and they decided to celebrate it in the best way possible: soaking in the sun and creating memories together at Pauoa Bay Beach.
Now, let’s be honest. Family photos can sometimes sound like a logistical nightmare: coordinating outfits, wrangling teens, hoping someone remembers sunscreen. But with the Washkos? It was pure magic. Just the four of them—Mom, Dad, Kaylie (21 and effortlessly cool), and William (18 and game for anything)—bringing sunshine energy and making the whole morning feel like a hangout rather than a “say cheese” situation.
That’s the thing about Big Island family portraits: they’re so much more than posed smiles. They’re about slowing down in the middle of your vacation and saying, “This. This right here, with my people, matters.” It’s about laughing when your hair blows the wrong way, stepping barefoot into the surf, and realizing this little slice of time? It’s worth remembering forever.
And let’s talk about Pauoa Bay for a second, because wow. The soft golden sand, those lush palm trees, and the ocean were the perfect stage for this beautiful, joy-filled foursome. Palm trees for days! A postcard-perfect Big Island family portrait.
And it wasn’t just about the pictures (even though they turned out stunning), it was about honoring their first Hawaiian adventure together. A celebration of the present moment.
The Washkos reminded us what family portraits are truly about: not perfection, but presence. And a whole lot of fun!
Mahalo, Washko family, we’re already hoping this won’t be your last Hawaii visit! Have fun!
Time Of Day: Morning
Big Island Family Photographer: Tetiana of Karma Hill Photography
Big Island Portrait Location: Pauao Bay Beach
There’s a very specific kind of magic that happens when someone plans a surprise Kauai proposal portrait. Not just any proposal, but the kind that includes red roses, a quiet beach, and six years of knowing, you know, the kind that makes you tear up before the ring box is even open. That was Larissa
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.