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In Hawaiʻi, family is everything. The word ʻohana means more than “family” in the traditional sense—it speaks to the deep, interconnected relationships that bind parents, grandparents, siblings, aunties, uncles, and even close friends together. ʻOhana represents belonging, continuity, and love that flows across generations. As a Kauai newborn and maternity photographer, I feel deeply honored to capture that spirit of ʻohana through my lens. Every session tells a story — not only of a baby’s first days, but also of the heritage, traditions, and love that surround them. Newborn photography becomes a way to honor Hawaiian family traditions and preserve the timeless beauty of connection for generations to come. The Heart of ʻOhana When I photograph a newborn, I often think about the generations that came before—the kupuna (elders) whose wisdom and strength created the foundation for the family. In Hawaiian culture, every new life is seen as a blessing, a continuation of ancestral lineage. Welcoming a baby is both a personal and communal celebration. Newborn photography offers a special opportunity to honor that connection. Whether through subtle cultural details or larger family gatherings, each photograph becomes a way to express gratitude to your ancestors and share your family’s story with future generations. Each family’s approach is unique, but here are a few ideas that beautifully reflect the spirit of ʻohana: The Symbolism of the Lei A lei is one of the most recognizable and beloved symbols of aloha. In newborn photography, lei can be used to represent the circle …

One of the greatest blessings of my work as a photographer here on Kauaʻi is being invited into some of the most tender and meaningful seasons of a family’s life. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of documenting so many incredible journeys—from glowing Kauaʻi maternity photography sessions on the beach, to those first sweet newborn snuggles, to the joyous celebration of a baby’s very first birthday. What makes it even more special is when an entire ‘ohana, including grandparents, comes together for these milestones. There is something profoundly beautiful about capturing three generations in a single frame. A maternity session is already full of anticipation and love, but when grandparents are present, the story becomes even deeper. Their joy at welcoming a new grandchild radiates, and I often find myself tearing up behind the camera. It’s a reminder that a new life is never just about one child—it’s about the continuation of a family’s story, woven through generations. When the baby finally arrives, newborn photography sessions are among my favorites. Those first days are fleeting and tender, filled with sleepy stretches, tiny toes, and the kind of love that fills a room to the brim. Grandparents holding their grandbaby for portraits—there is nothing quite like it. Their hands, lined with the experiences of a lifetime, gently cradling this new little soul, speak volumes about love, legacy, and the beauty of time. By the time a baby’s first birthday arrives, the journey feels full circle. Watching families gather again, a …

Welcoming a new baby is one of life’s most precious milestones. For families on Kaua‘i, incorporating meaningful traditions into newborn portraits makes those memories even more special. One of the most beautiful ways to honor both culture and new life is with a lei po‘o, a handcrafted flower crown that carries deep cultural roots and timeless elegance. More than an accessory, a lei po‘o honors tradition, symbolizes aloha, and creates unforgettable portraits of your little one’s first days of life. At Betty Laurent Photography, a Kaua‘i newborn photographer specializing in timeless, heartfelt images, I love helping families weave this island tradition into their photo sessions. What is a Lei Po‘o? In Hawaiian tradition, a lei is a garland of flowers, leaves, or other natural materials given to show love, honor, or celebration. A lei po‘o is a lei made specifically to be worn on the head. Historically, these adornments have been worn for ceremonies, hula, graduations, weddings, and other special occasions. When included in a newborn photography session on Kaua‘i, a lei po‘o not only enhances the natural beauty of the portraits but also connects families to the spirit of aloha and the island’s heritage. Types of Lei Po‘o and Flowers Used No two lei po‘o are alike. Each is handcrafted with intention, and the flowers chosen often carry their own meaning: The combination of blossoms and greens creates a crown that is both meaningful and visually stunning, making it a treasured element of Kaua‘i newborn photography. Cultural Significance of …