ocean led - story telling based on kauai, HI

 

underwater & EDITORIAL photography

Our Story


Founded by Anne and Phoenix, The Blue Hour Hawaiʻi is an ocean-led creative collaboration based on Kauaʻi, specializing in underwater and editorial photography.


What began as a shared love for the ocean, storytelling, and visual art evolved into a creative partnership rooted in connection — to nature, to people, and to meaningful moments. Inspired by the movement of water, changing light, and the raw beauty of Hawaiʻi, we create imagery that feels immersive, intentional, and timeless.


Our approach blends documentary emotion with an editorial eye, allowing each story to unfold naturally while capturing the feeling behind it. Whether underwater or on land, we aim to create photographs that feel honest, cinematic, and deeply human.

Gallery

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YOUR VISUAL STORYTELLERS

An underwater artist and co-founder of The Blue Hour Hawaii, inspired by the rhythm of the ocean and the beauty of human connection. Her work blends light-driven cinematic storytelling with an intuitive, natural approach shaped by life on Kaua‘i. When she’s not in the water, she’s spending time with her young son, diving for shells, and embracing the island’s slower moments.

phoenix lawton

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YOUR VISUAL STORYTELLERS

Raised in New Zealand and now calling Kaua‘i home, Anne Ellis is a co-founder of The Blue Hour Hawaii. Her work is inspired by the rhythm of the ocean, human connection, and the beauty found in life’s quieter moments. With a cinematic and emotive approach to underwater storytelling, she creates imagery that feels timeless, immersive, and deeply personal. Outside of photography, Anne values a balanced life centered around family, friendship, and enjoying the natural abundance of island living.

anne ellis

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COnnect with us below

EverEvery creative session is approached with care, intention and guidance to the best of our ability. If you any have questions regarding swimming ability, comfort in the water, or the experience itself please don't hesitate to include that in your inquiry.

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