St. Thomas Close-Up: A Conversation with Island Photographer, Nick Heinemann
- STT Mag
- Aug 2
- 3 min read
From hurricane recovery to capturing dream vacations, photographer Nick Heinemann brings stories to life through the lens; one island session at a time.
Arriving in the Virgin Islands
When Nick Heinemann first dreamed of the Virgin Islands, he was a child watching Jacques Cousteau and hearing tales of the sea from his scuba-diving father. But it wasn’t until after Hurricane Irma devastated his home in the Florida Keys that he took a chance on a new beginning...landing on St. Thomas for what started as a three-day job interview. Years later, Nick has built not only a new life but a thriving photography business that blends technical skill, deep empathy, and a love for the sea.
Capturing the Island Through Emotion
Nick’s approach to island photography goes far beyond snapping pretty pictures. Whether he's shooting a surprise proposal, a flying dress session, or a family’s favorite vacation spot, each image tells a layered story of place, emotion, and connection. “I live vicariously in those moments,” he says. “In every shoot, I try to create something unique...something that couldn’t exist anywhere else but here.”
Nick's Favorite Spots to Shoot
What makes his work so stunning? For Nick, it’s about more than location. He carefully plans every session around light, mood, and even topography, knowing that the sun sets differently behind St. Thomas’ hills depending on the time of year. His favorite locations: Sapphire Beach, Prettyklip Point, and Magens Bay which all offer cinematic backdrops, but it’s his attention to detail and respect for clients' experiences that bring the real magic.
Flying Dresses, Proposals & Memorable Moments
Flying dress sessions are a signature offering, and while they may look effortless, Nick knows how to help even shy clients feel confident and celebrated. “I tell everyone, ‘Take a deep breath. Now let it go.’ For many, it’s a dream moment and I make sure they feel that.”
When asked about his favorite shoot, Nick recalls a “Make A Wish” session that turned into a gift from him to a family facing a life-changing challenge. I was contacted by a mother who was coordinating a family photo session. Her daughter was fulfilling her wish for a “Make A Wish” dream. After coordinating the dates, times and location, she inquired on the cost. I advised her that understanding the strength that her family and daughter have needed to maintain, in order to overcome a life changing situation, I would provide the session free of charge. Additionally, I provided her and her daughter with a flying
dress session. My belief is that sometimes, we just need to do good deeds and this was one of those moments. That ethos of care, presence, and purpose runs through everything he does.
"My belief is that sometimes, we just need to do good deeds and this was one of those moments."
Tips to Consider When Planning a Photoshoot
Nick says earlier in the morning is typically the cooler time of the day. In regards to flying dress sessions, as beautiful as the dresses are, one can become warm rather quickly. This also allows for the clients to spend the day enjoying the beach and
water or exploring the islands. For a late afternoon or sunset session, bug spray is a must and I typically offer
it to my clients as soon as we meet at the session location.
Plan a session relatively early in you trip. Typically your second day of vacation. Get a little sun the first day but not too much. Wearing lobster red as a skin tone, is typically outside of what a client is desiring. This also allows for the
possibility of a backup session date due to weather. Weather is variable at different parts of the year. Typically I allow for some time and date flexibility during the rainy season.
How Can You Book a Session with Heinemann Images?
Clients can book with Nick through HeinemannImages.com or via social channels @HeinemannImages. His sessions are thoughtfully planned and delivered with professionalism, heart, and a touch of island magic plus, edited images are sent out quickly so guests can enjoy and share them while still on vacation.
For anyone visiting the Virgin Islands, a photo session with Nick isn’t just a souvenir; it’s an unforgettable experience captured in beautiful, lasting imagery.
Comments