Hi Everyone!
If you’ve followed my work, you know that Hawai‘i has always held a very special place in my heart. My love for the islands began when I was a kid, traveling with my family to Kaua‘i. Those early trips were filled with adventure, exploring hidden beaches, gazing up at the cliffs of the Nā Pali Coast, and taking in the island’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. Even back then, I was captivated by the Hawaiian culture.
Years later, that love has only deepened. During the pandemic, my own family and I fell in love with the Four Seasons Hualālai on the Big Island. What started as an escape became a meaningful tradition — we’ve returned every year since to celebrate the holidays together. Sunrise swims, snorkeling adventures, and evenings spent watching the sunset over the Pacific, our time there has become cherished memories and tradition.
The Four Seasons Hualalai has become my muse, and I’m so grateful for the incredible team there who helped make this shoot possible. We shot over several days with careful planning, making sure to respect the serene environment and the guests who were also enjoying this magical property!
The collection features the Aqualillies, whose artistry and precision always bring such a dynamic element to a shoot. I’ve had the pleasure of working with them before, and it was great to collaborate again for this series. There’s an ease and trust that comes from working with a team you know well, and it made the creative process that much more rewarding.
From the beginning, I had a clear vision for these underwater images — to capture something special and ethereal. Shooting underwater comes with plenty of challenges, but with the Aqualillies’ talent and my dedicated crew, we were able to bring that vision to life! The results are everything I hoped for — images that feel fluid and timeless.
I hope this series brings a bit of that feeling to you too — the sense of calm, freedom, and connection that Hawai‘i always seems to offer. Explore the full collection here.
Mahalo, Hualālai.
Xx,
Gray