through my lens - by a top kauai photographer

Aloha! I'm Kauai photographer David Marsh, also known by some as the English photographer Kauai. With a background in film production, a joint BAFTA and International Emmy team recipient, published novelist, and a good cook, apparently. 

I've been a full-time photographer based in Kauai since 2008; before then a photographer and independent film producer/director in California, before then London, England. I appreciate that you're considering me as I know you have other choices. 

You want to know my key ingredient, not in the kitchen but on a photoshoot? Fun! If you're having fun, I get genuine smiles and belly laughter and inhibitions fade away. So it's on me to make sure you're having a blast. if you're okay to go with the flow, let's reveal the hidden show off you didn't even know was lurking under your skin. You want romantic, passionate—I get that, too! It's not all about one thing. If you're willing to splash about in the ocean during your photography session in Kauai, I'll be there with you. You want to climb a tree and propose, fantastic. If you're not sure, no worries. Photography tips are on my lips. Let's get ready to shoot!

The sun gets cut by the mountain as it slowly rises into the sky in the early morning. It's the time of day when soft streams of light allow for beautifully lit couples photographs. Lighting followed by set decoration are the first two things on my mind when I lead my clients to specific photo op spots at our selected location. Set decoration, you say? Yes. You see, the beach we've chosen to shoot at is purposely selected because of its photo ops. Think of a stretch of misty mountains, and jungle nestled up against a crescent beach, an outrigger canoe sitting on a sand bank, a fallen tree trunk on the beach. Great photo ops! Now imagine a narrow, deserted, maybe romantic beach, that isn't framed by misty mountains, doesn't have rock pools or an outrigger canoe just sitting there.  If I'm going to be your photographer, I'd like more than the ocean and a beach. This is why I do lots of photoshoots at Hanalei Bay, Shipwreck Beach, and Tunnels Beach. While there are other beaches besides these three with a amazing photo op possibilities, I always consider other factors such as ease of getting there, parking, safety, bathrooms, etc. And while Hanalei Bay might see a fair volume of beachgoers, removing them from my photos is part of the gig.  It's all the more satisfying when my clients see their photos for the first time and text me, "I love them all! You made all the other beachgoers disappear, thank you so much"

Of note: This Kauai photographer prefers doing photo sessions on the north shore. It's less driving time, which otherwise would eat into his editing time. If you're on vacation, and looking for a Princeville photographer or Hanalei photographer, perfect! But even if your hotel/Airbnb is on the south side, instead of searching for a Poipu Kauai photographer, the spectacular north shore is really worth visiting. I will, however, travel to you on the south side if you really don't want to do the drive yourself.

Flexible with your photo shoot's day and time  

I'm reminded that I live in paradise. Everywhere I look I see stunning backdrops. Only it wouldn’t be so verdant without all of our rainfall. Still, not everyone wants a sunset couples photo session in a downpour, which is why I try to be as flexible as possible in regards to switching times, even the shoot date if possible, at no extra charge.

My photography portfolio is the best way to start your journey of decision.   

 'nuff said, for now

—David.

Professional photographer Kauai.