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 of love surrounding the baby. A delicate lei po‘o (floral crown) made with gentle flowers such as pīkake, plumeria, or maile can symbolize purity, peace, and new beginnings. For family portraits, matching lei among parents, grandparents, and siblings adds a sense of unity and continuity. Each flower carries its own meaning—orchids for strength and beauty, maile for respect and connection, and ti leaves for protection. Incorporating these elements turns your photos into visual blessings for your child’s journey through life.
ʻĀina – The Land that Sustains Us
In Hawaiian culture, the ʻāina (land) is sacred — it provides life, nourishment, and identity. Photographing newborns and families outdoors in Kauaʻi’s breathtaking landscapes honors that bond between people and nature. Whether your session takes place in a lush valley, beneath swaying palms, or near the ocean’s edge, the island itself becomes part of your story. The soft breeze, the golden light, and the sounds of the sea all bring a peaceful, grounding energy that reflects the Hawaiian way of life.
Capturing the Spirit of Aloha
When families invite me to photograph their newborn, I don’t just see it as a photoshoot—I see it as an act of storytelling and legacy-building. The camera becomes a bridge between generations, helping families celebrate both modern joy and ancient traditions.
Many of my clients tell me that after their session, they look at their photos and feel not just love, but also connection—to their roots, to each other, and to something larger than themselves. That’s the power of honoring ʻohana through photography.
A Legacy of Love
Newborn photography may seem like a small moment in time, but it carries tremendous emotional and cultural significance. Each image is a love letter—to your baby, to your family, and to the generations who came before. It says: We were here. We loved deeply. We honored where we came from.
As a photographer, my goal is to help families preserve this legacy. I aim to create imagery that feels timeless, authentic, and full of aloha.
And when your newborn grows up and looks back at these photographs, they’ll see more than just their tiny hands or sleepy smile—they’ll see the love of their family, the roots of their heritage, and the beauty of the Hawaiian spirit that welcomed them into the world.
Ready to honor your ʻohana with a newborn session on Kauaʻi?
Reach out to Betty Laurent Photography to begin planning your heartfelt, culturally inspired portrait experience. Together, we’ll create timeless images that celebrate your family’s unique story and the aloha that binds you forever.