Hawaii is a photographer’s dream—a place where natural beauty, vibrant culture, and serene landscapes come together to create unforgettable moments. Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to photograph a destination wedding at Ka’ala Vista in Waialua, Hawaii. This stunning venue, nestled on the North Shore of Oahu, was the perfect backdrop for a celebration of love.

The Venue: Ka’ala Vista

Ka’ala Vista is a hidden gem. Perched high up on a hill, it offers panoramic views of the Waialua countryside, with lush greenery, distant mountains, and a gentle breeze from the Pacific Ocean. The venue has a relaxed, intimate feel while still being grand enough for a wedding.

The couple I worked with wanted a ceremony that reflected the natural beauty of Hawaii, and Ka’ala Vista delivered. The setting sun cast a golden glow over the ceremony space, where the couple exchanged vows beneath a simple but elegant bamboo arch adorned with tropical flowers. The lush surroundings and the stunning view of the North Shore in the background made for incredibly cinematic photos.

One of the highlights was capturing the post-ceremony moments. As the newlyweds strolled through the venue’s gardens, hand in hand, the light was soft and golden, giving the whole scene a dreamy, ethereal feel. These are the kinds of moments where Hawaii’s magic truly comes alive in photographs.

The Wedding Details

Hawaiian weddings are known for their rich culture and tradition, and this wedding was no exception. The couple incorporated traditional Hawaiian elements, such as the exchange of leis and a Hawaiian blessing during the ceremony. These touches made the day even more special and personal. I was able to capture close-up shots of the leis being exchanged—such an intimate, beautiful tradition that symbolizes love and unity.

Ka’ala Vista’s natural setting didn’t need much in the way of décor, but the bride and groom added some personal touches that really brought out their style. Bright tropical florals, soft fairy lights, and rustic wooden details gave the wedding a bohemian yet tropical vibe. Every detail was thoughtfully planned, and as a photographer, that’s always a dream to capture.

Final Thoughts

Photographing a destination wedding in Hawaii, especially at a venue like Ka’ala Vista, is truly a photographer’s paradise. The stunning scenery, the unique cultural elements, and the raw beauty of the island come together to create something extraordinary. Coupling that with an adventurous engagement session at Sandy Beach made this trip even more unforgettable.

If you’re considering a destination wedding or engagement session in Hawaii, you’re in for a treat. The islands have a way of bringing out the best in love, life, and of course—photography.

And if you’re looking for a photographer to capture your destination wedding or engagement session, whether it’s in Hawaii or anywhere else in the world, feel free to reach out. I’d love to help you document your love story in a way that is as unique and beautiful as the moment itself.

Josh Wong Photography
Bringing your love story to life, one photo at a time. Contact me here to discuss your destination wedding and how I can be there to capture your moments.

The post Ka’ala Vista, Waialua, Hawaii appeared first on New York City Wedding Photographer - Josh Wong Photography.

Engagement photos in Positano, Italy is a photographer’s dream.

My recent trip to Positano, Italy to photograph my couple, Janine and Derek’s , dream destination wedding was magical. But before the wedding, we had the opportunity to do a little engagement session along this beautiful seaside town.

The enchanting cliffside village, with its pastel-colored buildings cascading down to the shimmering Tyrrhenian Sea, provided the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable photo shoot.

We wandered through narrow, winding streets, stopping at hidden alleyways, charming piazzas, and flower-filled terraces. The light was magical, with the golden hues of the Italian sun enhancing the romance of every moment.

We made our way down to Spiaggia Grande, where the couple strolled along the beach, their joy reflected in the tranquil waters. The blend of natural beauty and their palpable love made for some of the most stunning shots I’ve ever taken. It was a true privilege to document their love story in such an iconic location.

Covo dei Saraceni Hotel, Italy

The Path of the Gods in Italy

The couple hike along the steps called “The Path of the Gods”. The Path of the Gods, or Sentiero degli Dei, is a hiking trail in Italy that includes approximately 10,000 steps down to Positano.

Final Thoughts: An Engagement Photoshoot to Remember

This trip to Positano to capture a couple’s engagement pictures felt like stepping into a postcard. The enchanting cliffside village, with its pastel-colored buildings cascading down to the shimmering Tyrrhenian Sea, provided the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable photo shoot.

Update: Janine and Derek’s Positano Italy Wedding

• Guastavino’s Wedding New York City by Top NYC Wedding Photographer Josh Wong Photography
• Rockefeller Center Ice Rink Proposal – Engaged! Moves Like Jagger.
• Tribeca 360 Wedding
• Le Chateau Wedding
• Weddings at Oheka Castle

The post Engagement Photos in Positano: A Dreamy Experience appeared first on New York City Wedding Photographer - Josh Wong Photography.

Grand Velas Riviera Maya Wedding – Playa Del Carmen, Mexico photographed by International Destination Wedding photographer Josh Wong Photography

Jade and Peter’s whirlwind three-day destination wedding at the Grand Velas Resort and Spa in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico in the Maya Riviera was nothing short of spectacular. Their wedding incorporated the dreamy beach wedding that most can only dream about. Friends and family started arriving for their wedding on Thursday and Friday to celebrate with Jade and Peter. On Friday, they had their rehearsal on the beach and later had their rehearsal/welcome dinner at Luca, an Italian restaurant at the Grand Velas.

The Grand Velas is a AAA 5 Diamond luxury all-inclusive resort which is a stunning property with great food, great service, and beautiful accommodations. This was the first time I stayed at an all-inclusive resort and I have mixed feelings about. For the most part though, the experience is quite amazing. Getting pampered all day long never gets old.

Welcome Party and Rehearsal Dinner – Grand Velas Riviera Maya Wedding

My team and I flew into Cancun, Mexico on Thursday evening to get situated with the environment and to scout out possible photo shoot locations in and around the resort. Because the resort is all-inclusive, security is actually ridiculously tight. Getting in and out of the resort required you to check in and out with the resort attendants each time. The property is gated and they will not let you enter until they locate your host.

On the day of the wedding, Jade started with a trip to the Spa to get ready with her bridesmaids. She spent most of the time there until it was time for the wedding. Because it was a beach wedding, Jade and her bridesmaids went barefoot and had gorgeous designer foot jewerly. Peter on the other hand also spent some time with his groomsmen at the spa before heading back to his room to get ready. They did a spa package that included various types of cold and hot baths and a mud bath. The wedding took place on a private beach sectioned off by the Grand Velas. The beach offered fine white sands with and a breathtaking backdrop for the guests. After the ceremony, all the guests headed back towards the resort to party the night away with their family and friends.

The next day. We set out for another photo shoot.

For day three, we scheduled a day after/trash the dress photo session. The plan was to head into Tulum, Mexico to try to get some images with the Mayan ruins. Unfortunately, we had a late start, which is understandable since everyone was up late partying for most of the previous night. We ended up hitting the beach and wandered into the town area where we happened upon this an amazing boutique hotel cafe where we were able to capture some truly amazing shots. Here are a few of my favorites from the 3 day destination wedding in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Enjoy!
© Josh Wong Photography

Are you planning your dream wedding at Grand Velas? I’d love the opportunity to capture your special day at this stunning venue! If you’re interested, feel free to contact me—I’d be thrilled to discuss how I can make your wedding memories unforgettable.

The post Grand Velas Riviera Maya Wedding – Playa Del Carmen, Mexico appeared first on New York City Wedding Photographer - Josh Wong Photography.