Not only do I photograph a moment, but I tell a deeper story through my lens—preserving emotions, memories, and a sense of place.I want my clients to feel like they’re walking away with a little piece of Hawai'i’s spirit in every shot.
Aloha kākou!
I’m a visual storyteller - rather than just a photographer. I connect with our locals and folks visiting the islands of Hawai’i through story and photography. My sessions begin with knowing one’s story, and then curating a session uniquely for them.
A portrait session entails photographs of poses and then lifestyle shots for those who wish to have a moment documented. One of my greatest goals for a photography session is for one to feel confident yet comfortable. Not one session is ever replicated, and all photographs are professionally retouched by myself.
I work with residents and vacationers to the Hawaiian Islands, and have taken every type of portrait imaginable. They range from high school graduations to newly engaged couples, maternity sessions, headshots for business bios, corporate groups for company branding, and many more. I take the time to meet you and talk story as I learn about your lifestyle and priorities to make sure they come through as desired.
Amber Makamae is a Visual Storyteller - portrait and wedding photographer, graphic & website designer based on Hawai’i Island and working throughout the islands of Hawai’i & beyond.
Enter a Heading
This is a paragraph. Click edit and enter your own text. You can make changes like making the text bold, underline or italic. This is a great place for you to tell your clients more about your story and to describe the type of photographer you are. You can come back at any time to make more changes.
Professionally
I began my photographic journey shooting on an Olympus film camera and a Canon AE-1 Program, developing my own film in a darkroom and learning the art from the ground up. I hold formal training and a degree in photography, photo editing, graphic design, and website design—giving me a deeply rooted, well-rounded creative foundation.
With over 20 years behind the lens (often with two cameras in hand), I’ve photographed hundreds of weddings, thousands of portraits, and personally retouched well over a million digital images. I spent five years photographing for NDA clients on land, in the air, and on the water—experiences that sharpened both my technical precision and creative adaptability.
My work has included roles as a photographer and photo editor for Fox Sports Santa Monica, San Diego Magazine, Gap, Old Navy, Nike, Reebok, and boutique brands throughout Northern California and Hawaiʻi. I’ve also had the privilege of mentoring aspiring portrait and wedding photographers and was featured as a RAW artist in San Francisco.
Every image I deliver is photographed and hand-edited by me with intention and care—never outsourced, never rushed. I’m also the author of Huakaʻi, a published visual documentary of Island TAT, and I proudly belong to the Professional Photographers of America (PPA), a prestigious organization dedicated to excellence in the craft.
Personally
I’m a mother of four and a proud survivor of domestic violence — my journey has shaped both who I am and how I hold space for others. During my healing, I met my soulmate, who is now my husband and photography assistant, walking alongside me in life and in work.
I’ve played the piano since I was five and grew up between the islands of Saipan (one of those little island north of Guam situated in the Mariana's Trench) and Hawaiʻi, where ocean, culture, and connection rooted my spirit early on. At fourteen, I moved to San Diego to chase my dreams in photography and design, trusting my creativity to guide the way.
I’ve been surfing and dancing hula since I was eleven, once stepped into the world of modeling—and even taught it—before fully answering photography’s call. Somewhere along the way, my wardrobe turned almost entirely black (there are at least fifty pieces… probably more), and a single Spam musubi before every shoot became my sacred pre-session ritual.
My iPhone currently holds over 90,000 photos, which feels fitting for someone who sees life in moments. Above all, I believe deeply in the universe, in manifestation, and in leading with aloha—always.
My approach
My approach to photography—especially in the realm of weddings—is rooted in a style that honors authenticity, emotion, and the natural beauty of each moment. Unlike traditional portrait photography, my work as a lifestyle and wedding photographer focuses on capturing genuine connection while offering gentle direction to guide the flow of the session or celebration.
I’m not drawn to stiff, overly posed imagery, as it often lacks the depth and warmth I strive to preserve. Instead, I aim to create portraits that feel effortless, romantic, and alive—photographs that reflect your true essence. Whether it’s the soft light of a Hawai‘i sunset, the gentle sway of a lei in the breeze, or the quiet joy of a shared glance, I draw inspiration from the elements around us: natural light, the surrounding environment, your chosen colors, and the mana of our ‘āina.
In both lifestyle and wedding photography, I seek to preserve not just how your day looked, but how it felt—creating timeless, heartfelt imagery that tells your story with grace and intention.
After booking a session, I love to “talk story” - understanding who I’ll be photographing / what brings out certain emotions or moods amongst all involved. From there, I’ll work with my client(s) on location - ie what parts of the island are most safest and most fitting for all. I do not replicate any of my shoots, meaning no one family/person’s photograph will not look like another. I do not use filters, and I do not share any RAW images; they are kept safe - just like my own keiki!
My Uniqueness
What sets individual and family portrait photographers apart often lies in the depth of their experience and the refinement of their training. I’m grateful to bring over 20 years of real-life experience, paired with more than a decade of formal education in the art and craft of photography. This foundation has shaped not only my technical understanding of what makes a photograph truly beautiful, but also my ability to connect with people—gently guiding them to feel at ease in front of the lens.
In the unique setting of Hawai‘i, where the light, colors, and energy of the ‘āina influence every frame, this experience allows me to intuitively work with both the environment and the individuals I photograph. From capturing quiet moments of connection to composing portraits that feel honest and alive, I approach each session with intention, care, and deep respect for your story. You can trust that I will always give my very best to honor your memories with images that are both meaningful and enduring.
Along with my photography collections, I offer the gift of a signature lei po‘o in your photography experience is more than a beautiful adornment—it is a heartfelt expression of aloha. Woven with intention and care, each lei po‘o reflects not only the wearer’s spirit but also the artistry and cultural heritage of Hawai‘i. By choosing to incorporate this offering, you honor a sacred tradition while directly supporting the talented and hardworking lei makers who dedicate themselves to preserving this living art form. Their hands, guided by generations of knowledge, craft each piece with deep respect for the land and the meaning behind every bloom. It is a collaboration that weaves beauty, culture, and community into every image—and every memory.
An elevated photography experience
Exceptional care and with aloha
Excellence is at the heart of everything I do—especially when it comes to serving my clients with care and intention. From prompt communication to timely delivery of your images, you can expect a seamless and attentive experience throughout. If you have a special deadline or request, I will always do my best to honor it, without additional cost. Your story matters deeply to me, and it’s a privilege to ensure every detail is handled with thoughtfulness and grace.
Endless patience & enthusiasm
Children naturally move through the world on their own terms—and as a child photographer, I warmly welcome that spirit. I understand that meltdowns happen, curiosity takes over, and not every moment goes as planned—and that’s perfectly okay. Whether your toddler needs a break or your little one wants to peek through my lens, I meet each moment with patience, playfulness, and genuine care. I simply love children, and I’m here to create a space where their true personalities can shine.
Authentically you
Every image you see in my portfolio features real people—genuine families, couples, and individuals, not professional models. I understand that stepping in front of the camera can feel unfamiliar, and it's completely natural not to know what to do. That’s where I come in. With gentle guidance and thoughtful direction, I’ll help you feel at ease, setting up each pose and offering subtle tips to bring out your most flattering angles. My goal is to capture you authentically, with confidence and grace.
Be comfortable & trust
With over 20 years of experience and more than 1,000 sessions behind me, I’ve learned to anticipate challenges before they arise and guide each moment with care. One of the most important lessons? Sessions unfold more smoothly when trust is built early—especially with little ones. That’s why, from the moment I arrive, I take the time to connect with your children on their level, often beginning with play and lighthearted interaction. It sets the tone for a relaxed, joyful experience—and paves the way for the most genuine, heartfelt photographs.
Your personal stylist
Perfectly curated, Pinterest-worthy outfits are not a requirement for beautiful photographs—and I truly mean that. Stunning images can be created no matter what you’re wearing, as long as you feel comfortable and confident. That said, if you love to plan and want a little extra guidance, I’m here to help. I can send you thoughtful wardrobe tips, color palettes, and sample outfit combinations for inspiration—or, if you prefer, I’m happy to style your looks for you. Whatever your comfort level, we’ll make sure your session feels effortless and beautifully you.
Clients become 'ohana
When you work with me, you become ‘ohana. This connection goes far beyond a single session—it’s a relationship rooted in care, trust, and shared milestones. I’ll be there to celebrate with you when your baby graduates from kindergarten, and I’ll feel the bittersweet tug if your family moves away. Many of my clients have been with me since as far back as 2004, and it’s been one of my greatest honors to witness their children grow, evolve, and step into each new chapter. Being invited into your life through photography is a privilege I never take for granted.