If you’ve looked at your weather app this week and seen nothing but rain clouds, take a deep breath. As a local photographer who lives on the windward side and spends more time in the water than on land, I have a secret for you: The “bad” weather is usually when the magic happens.
The 10-Minute Rule
On the windward side, rain is a part of life—it’s why everything is so lush and green! But here’s the thing: it rarely settles in for the day. Unless there is a massive, named storm system rolling through, “rain” usually means a 10-minute tropical mist that blows over before you’ve even finished your first set of poses.
The Speculation Window
Checking the weather more than 48 hours out in Hawaii is pure speculation. The winds shift, the clouds move, and what looked like a “stormy” Friday on Tuesday often turns into a breathtaking afternoon. Unless I reach out to you to reschedule, it means I’ve tracked the system, and I’m confident we have a window to make magic.
Clouds are a “Natural Studio”
People often think they want high-noon sun, but as a portrait photographer, I’ll take a cloudy day every time. The clouds act as a giant natural softbox, diffusing the light so it hits your face evenly.
Finding the Pockets
Today, the winds were howling at 23mph. Trees were falling over, and the palm trees were bent sideways. But even on the windward side, there are “pockets”—little hidden spots where the air stays still, and the water looks calm.
The “Go with the Flow” Philosophy
Ultimately, when you choose a Sunrise or Sunset session, you are choosing the best lighting possible, regardless of the clouds. Some of my favorite sessions involved a little wind and a few raindrops, resulting in raw, real, and incredibly emotive photos.
My Promise to You: I have a spot for every condition. If we are shooting, I am 100% certain I can get you photos that will blow your mind. I’ve shot in 23mph winds, midday sun, and drizzling rain—and every single time, we found the beauty in it.
