"It doesn't interest me what you do for a living. I want to know what you ache for - and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart's longing. It doesn't interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool - for love - for your dreams - for the adventure of being alive."

- Oriah Mountain Dreamer


That quote is what showed up when I looked up my personality type. It perfectly describes me in ways I would never have found the words for myself.

I'm a free spirit, a lover of life, carefree and happy, and I thrive on emotional connections. Both the ones I make and the connections I observe in-between others.

I'm pretty sure I won the jackpot in the lottery of life. Living a simple island life with my little family under the palm trees of Maui, Hawaii, I enjoy surfing, snorkeling/swimming/playing in the ocean, camping, volleyball, hiking, running and of course photography and pretty much anything else that takes me out into the sunshine.

Other random facts about me:

  • The best day of my life was September 15, 2014, when we got married in the ocean on our surfboards.

  • The other best day of my life was October 29, 2015, the day our daugther was born and I realized our capacity to love is infinite.

  • I'm a bit too honest (probably because I'm the world's worst liar so I have no choice) and never too serious.

  • I love the ocean. It fascinates me, keeps me balanced, and makes me whole. If I could be a mermaid, I would.

  • I looooove stripes. And papayas. And music, especially the catchy song kind. (How's that for random?)


If you were hoping for a bio/resume, here's the short version:
  • Born and raised in Switzerland amongst 3 brothers and many pets.

  • Went to college in Colorado and graduated in 1998 with a degree in photography.

  • Worked as a photographer ever since (and often simulaneously as a nanny).

  • Won a few photography awards and, more importantly, the hearts of many families.


There you have it. My bubbly little personality all summed up. You can find more about me on the blog, and don't forget to say hi on instagram (@endlesssummermaui and @barbtoyama) or facebook (endless summer photo or barb toyama). I love making new connections and can't wait to meet you!