Alina Ibragimova Alina Ibragimova

How to Plan the Perfect Beach Surprise Proposal on Maui, Hawaii

Planning a surprise proposal is one of the most exciting (and nerve-wracking!) moments in your life. Maui is a perfect place to pop your question - with it’s gorgeous beaches and breathtaking sunsets it is one of the most romantic spots on earth. To help you plan your surprise proposal, here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure everything goes smoothly.

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Alina Ibragimova Alina Ibragimova

Celebrating 30th Anniversary with Family Beach Photoshoot | Wailea, Maui

Elizabeth reached out to me to book a photoshoot to celebrate her parents’ 30th wedding anniversary. Belen and Jose have been together for 30 years, and came to Maui to celebrate this special occasion with their four kids and son-in-law. Watching them interact was truly heartwarming!

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Alina Ibragimova Alina Ibragimova

Surprise Proposal at Ironwoods Beach, Kapalua | Maui Engagement Photographer

Ironwoods Beach is one of my favorite spots to capture proposals. It’s usually not very crowded at sunset, which is perfect for a private experience. I always scout the beach as I get there, and choose the least crowded spot - usually somewhere in the middle of the beach. For Nick and Claudia’s proposal, I pretended to be just hanging out, keeping my camera hidden in a beach bag. This way, Claudia had no idea what was about to happen!

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Alina Ibragimova Alina Ibragimova

Magical Surprise Proposal at Ho’okipa Beach | Maui Engagement Photographer

Zach and Karen had spent the day exploring Hana, but the highlight was yet to come. After checking out the sea turtles chilling on the shore at Hookipa, Zach took Karen to the cliffs above the beach, where I was waiting. I’d shared a Google Maps pin and a screenshot of my handwritten map to ensure he could find me easily. While they approached, I pretended to be taking landscape photos.

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Alina Ibragimova Alina Ibragimova

Documenting Auntie K’s First Surfboard Ding Repair Workshop |Maui, Hawai’i

The workshop took place in Kelsey’s shop in Haiku, where three curious surfer girls gathered, eager to learn the art of repairing dings. The energy in the room was vibrant, with Kelsey guiding everyone step by step through the process. She shared her knowledge with enthusiasm, creating a welcoming environment.

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Alina Ibragimova Alina Ibragimova

Maui Honeymoon: Romantic Things to Do for Couples

Maui is a perfect honeymoon destination for couples looking to combine relaxation with adventure. Whether you’re hiking through the jungle, snorkeling with colorful fish, or going on sunset boat cruise, Maui offers a great blend of romance and excitement. Here’s a little guide to some fun things to do on your Maui honeymoon—guaranteed to create memories that will last a lifetime!

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Alina Ibragimova Alina Ibragimova

Romantic Blue Hour Session in Wailea |Maui Couples Photographer

Recently, I had the pleasure of capturing a beautiful session in Wailea for a couple celebrating their 5th anniversary. They wanted some romantic photos with muted colors and lava rocks as a backdrop.

Thankfully, there are so many places on Maui that would suit their vision — Wailea has a number of beaches with lava rock formations; the key is to come at low tide so the lava is showing! To achieve the muted tones, I suggested we schedule the shoot during “blue hour”, the time just before sunrise when the colors are soft and subtle, perfect for the vibe they wanted to create.

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Alina Ibragimova Alina Ibragimova

Sunrise Engagement Session | Maui Couples Photographer

Alexis and Tyler are young couple from California, reached out to me shortly after their engagement. They wanted their engagement photos to reflect their love story in a candid way, mixed with some posed shots. After discussing various options, we decided on a sunrise session at Fleming Beach, known for its quiet, peaceful vibes.

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Alina Ibragimova Alina Ibragimova

Lifestyle Newborn Beach Photography on Maui | 3-months-old baby Luke | Hawaii Family Photographer

You may ask, what is lifestyle newborn session and how is is different from a “regular” newborn photography? It means that we are not going to wrap your newborn in cabbage leaves, or put a flower crown on his/her head. Lifestyle photography is about telling a story of people through the camera. The focus is on the connection between the parents and the baby, or the baby in his or her new surroundings. It’s more simple and relaxed approach to newborn photography, and although there is some direction going on, the child isn’t posed in anyway. It’s about capturing what is!

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Alina Ibragimova Alina Ibragimova

Natural Posing Tips for Couples Beach Session | Maui Photographer

I often hear from people that they are “terrible models” and “don’t know how to pose”. The truth is, it doesn't matter! What matters is creating an environment where you feel at ease. To make your couples session go smoothly, here are some posing tips that will help you feel comfortable and create beautiful photos that celebrate your love story.

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Alina Ibragimova Alina Ibragimova

Best Places To Take Portrait Photos | Maui Photoshoot Locations

Choosing the perfect location for your photoshoot starts with understanding your vision. Ultimately, it's a collaborative process and communication is the key. Share your preferences with your photographer, discuss the mood you envision, and be open to his or her suggestions. Together, you will discover the perfect location that turns your vision into timeless photographs.

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Alina Ibragimova Alina Ibragimova

Water Maternity Photos | Sunset Session At Po’olenalena Beach, Maui

There is something special about sessions in a water... It seems like they enhance the femininity of the woman, and they also work wonders for those who might be camera-shy. The water makes some kind of magic, creating a natural flow and atmosphere of ease and tranquility.

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Alina Ibragimova Alina Ibragimova

Sunrise, Sunset, or Blue Hour Photos? When and Where to Capture the Magic | Maui Photographer

I recommend sunrise sessions for early risers and those who look for calm and peaceful vibes, and want their session to be more private. It's a great time to capture couple’s romantic moments or maternity photos. The downside of sunrise session is is the early wake-up. Depending on the time of the year, sunrise can be as early as 5:40-7 am. Although if you're traveling from the East or even the West Coast, you might find it easier to wake up early due to the time difference.

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