98. Lifestyle Photographer Alanna O’Neil: Embracing Mother Maui, How To Become Your Own Creative Lighthouse, and the Power of Intuition

Lifestyle Photography with Alanna O'Neill, Embracing Mother Maui, How To Become Your Own Creative Lighthouse, and the Power of Intuition.

Alanna O’Neil is a lifestyle photographer, designer, and author who left the runways of New York fashion for the slower, more intentional rhythm of Maui. Her work — including her books The Art of Picnics and The Outdoor Table — is rooted in visual storytelling, seasonal living, and a soulful connection to nature. But her journey wasn’t linear. From Vermont to Manhattan to Maui, she’s navigated imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and the constant pull of outside expectations in order to find her own creative voice.

In this conversation we explore what it means to become your own creative lighthouse: learning to trust intuition, resisting comparison, and creating from a place of authenticity rather than approval. We talk about sensitivity as a superpower, why betraying yourself is always worse than betraying your audience, and the lessons Maui has taught her about resilience, growth, and building a life aligned with your values.

Notable Links:

Alanna O'Neil Website
Alanna O'Neil Instagram
Alanna's 2026 Paris Marathon Fundraiser for WWF

*****

If you’re looking for that next-level boost to your creativity and photography skills, you’ve got to check out my Beyond The Lens Newsletter on Substack.

 It’s like having a backstage pass to everything I explore with my guests here on the podcast - delivered straight to your email inbox.

Think practical photography tips, mind-expanding ideas for personal vision, and real-world tactics to level up your craft. Plus I’m sharing my thoughts on travel, conservation, creativity and more.

It’s straight to the point, super actionable, and it shows you how to see the world in an entirely new way. 

So if that sounds like your vibe, head on over to beyondthelens.fm/go and prepare to take your creative game to new heights. 

*****

This episode is brought to you by Kase Revolution Plus Filters. I travel the world with my camera, and I can use any photography filters I like, and I’ve tried all of them, but in recent years I’ve landed on Kase Filters.

Kase filters are made with premium materials, HD optical glass, shockproof, Ultra-Low Reflectivity, zero color cast, round and square filter designs, magnetic systems, filter holders, adapters, step-up rings, and everything I need so I never miss a moment.

And now, my listeners can get 10% off the Kase Filters Amazon page when they visit. beyondthelens.fm/kase and use coupon code BERNABE10

Kase Filters, Capture with Confidence.