where inspiration comes to lifecreated by kaui

Aloha, I’m Kaui.

I am the detail master,
color addict,
and a true believer
in the power of simplicity.

Live Simply. Dream Big.
Be Grateful.
Give Love. Laugh Lots.

I like people who smile...
when it's raining!

CREATED BY KAUI was built from the stepping stones of my journey and growth in the creative field. This new venture combines the original Makamae Photography with a growing popularity for my website and design work and my most recent plunge into the world of coordinating photography retreats and events. I truly look forward to bringing your vision to life while keeping it stylish, clean and informative.

these are a few...

sweet
juicy fruit

brilliant
stories

covering blank spaces
with bright colors

rainy
days

surf
sun
summer

wanderlust
exploring the world

the scent of
gardenia

the genius of
technology

...of my favorite things

Water is by BFF.I'm Ryder.

Who knew you could love someone so quickly. It warms my heart to be a part of Ryder's life and watch him grow up.

After spending almost five years on the mainland, I’m so stoked to be back home living and working in Hawaii.

Joining the Hookuaaina crew as their Program Coordinator and Storyteller has been a wonderful gift and fulfilling experience. I learn so much from these kids and I especially like seeing them let their guard down, laugh and be themselves. It is so rewarding when they open up and let you in even for a small moment.

Created by Kaui is my passion and creative outlet brought to life. Through my network of great friends and clients, I’ve been so fortunate to continue to travel while working and growing my business. I am very grateful.

I “officially” made it to #auntiestatus

My nephew Ryder Kalanakaiikeaupookela was born at the beginning of 2016 and I can't imagine my life without him anymore. Daily, he changes and gets a little bigger, a little smarter and a little cuter. There is no place I’d rather be than here with him, my family and my friends.

Sometimes the littlest things take up the most room in your heart. -Winnie the Pooh

#AuntieCasAndRyder

Mainland Living

After spending a month surfing and exploring the jungle of Costa Rica, I attended my first eye-opening After Dark event in Portland. After Dark Education was setting a new standard for photography education with its’ hands-on, “sharing is caring” learning philosophy. After joining the After Dark crew, I coordinated events in Las Vegas, Cincinnati, Charlotte, Tucson and Dallas.

"Coordinating these photography events taught me valuable work and life skills, but most importantly I’ve built lasting relationships with wonderful people.”

In 2011 I joined forces with Hudson’s Photography in Bedford, IN and transitioned them into a boutique studio with A unique line of customized products. My passion for freezing “timeless moments” blended with Kevin’s tailored posing and lighting skills to create an unstoppable, free-spirited duo our clients trusted to capture their life’s milestones.

Finding My Passion

I returned home to Hawaii after graduating from Loyola Marymount University to “figure it out.” Bouncing from corporate life at Norwegian Cruise Line America though a handful of very odd jobs and finally landing my dream job, of the moment, was a wild ride.

Working out of a home based photography studio with a tiny, tight-knit team was exactly what I needed to learn the ins and outs of running a successful business. Joanne took me under her wing and gave me the greatest hands-on learning experience. I am truly blessed.

It was through these experiences that Makamae Photography was built. I was fortunate and excited to work with children and families in Hawaii and California. Starting my own business was a wonderful and challenging life choice filled with ups and downs and lessons learned.

Hanabuddah Days

Growing up in Hawaii I spent as much time as I could in the sun and surf. Whether it was Jr. Lifeguarding, swimming, surfing or teaching little kids how to swim, my fingers were permanently pruned. As soon as I could start working, I did. I spent my summers teaching ukulele at Roy Sakuma’s Ukulele Studio and working at different pools and programs around the island.

After graduating from Kamehameha Schools, I attended Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California and earned my degree in Multimedia Arts and a minor in Computer Science. I continued to work with children while attending school and through these connections, I was able to get my feet wet in the Entertainment Industry. I was hooked.

Follow @createdbykaui

I am the detail master,color addict,and a true believerin the power of simplicity.

Live Simply. Dream Big. Be Grateful.Give Love. Laugh Lots.

I like people who smile...when it's raining!