Sunrise On Paradise Cove | Chloe + Tanner Engaged

Enchanted Moments

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~ Honolulu Photographer ~

You don’t have to ask me twice to head to Paradise Cove in Kapolei, Hawaii – my happy place – for an engagement shoot. This stunning oceanside location is one of my new favorite finds as a Honolulu photographer, and it was the perfect setting to photograph Chloe and Tanner’s sunrise session. This glorious beach just 20 minutes west of Honolulu offers the fabulous sweeping views that Chloe and Tanner hoped for. It was just small enough to offer privacy for an intimate engagement session with these two lovebirds. From the first golden rays to the playful ocean breeze, everything about this morning felt like magic.

We arrived just before sunrise, and as the soft light began to spill across the water, the world seemed to pause. Before the camera even came out, they shared a quiet beachside breakfast—goji berry and raspberry chocolates, lemon poppyseed scones, blueberry muffins, and a delicate cheeseboard. A little sweet, a little savory—just like their story. The Pacific Ocean shimmered in a silvery blue hue, and Chloe and Tanner stood barefoot on the rocks, wrapped in each other and the stillness of the morning.

Chloe floated through golden hour in her dreamy, flowing white dress which danced in the breeze. Tanner chose the men’s version of a little black dress—his navy-blue polo and khaki shorts combo was timeless, effortlessly flattering, and impossible to get wrong. Classic never needs a second thought, nor did the moment they were in. As a engagement photographer in Honolulu, I always encourage couples to wear what feels natural and elevated, and these two absolutely nailed it. The lovebirds were total naturals in front of the lens to boot—playful, kind, and effortlessly in sync.

As we made our way through “Posing 10” (my lovingly abridged approach to creating cinematic connection), I spotted a bold black rock peeking from the water. I challenged Tanner to find us a path—gear and flowing dress in tow—and of course, he delivered. We waded gently, dodged a cheeky little current that only got rowdy when Chloe or I stepped in (we joked the current was clearly sexist), and walked away with golden light and a new favorite inside joke.

Chatting through the photoshoot, as we wandered through treacherous tide-pools Chloe reminisced, “We just love a good road trip.” Over their seven years of dating, they’ve crisscrossed the country—from Minnesota to Colorado to Nashville—collecting stories and deepening their bond along the way. Tanner proposed in Winona, overlooking the city from the bluffs after a sunset river cruise. A quiet, heartfelt moment. Just the two of them and forever stretching wide open ahead.

For their September wedding, these high school sweethearts are returning home to celebrate at The Grands At Mulligan’s in Sartell, Minnesota, surrounded by the people who know their love story best. I have no doubt it’ll be filled with joy, laughter, and intentional moments that matter most.

As someone who specializes in weddings, engagements and couples photography across the Honolulu and the Hawaiian islands, it’s sessions like this one that remind me why I do what I do. It’s not just about beautiful locations (though Hawaii always delivers); it’s about the people. The connection. The quiet in-between moments that deserve to be remembered forever.

Chloe and Tanner—thank you for bringing your hearts, your humor, and your whole selves to this sunrise session. Here’s to more road trips, more inside jokes, and the kind of love that feels like home. 💛

Want engagement photos that feel like you- vibrant, natural and full of life? Whether you're planning your session in Honolulu, or destinations beyond, I’d love to help you create something meaningful. Simply drop me a line at Hello@Ltsquaredphotography.com to start planning your own engagement session in the sand with LT² Photography.

Planning your own Hawaii Proposal, elopement or destination wedding?

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From sun-drenched elopements to fall celebrations drenched in color—wherever love leads you, I’ll happily be there to preserve every cherished memory along the way.