I get asked about this constantly: where should we actually shoot? Oahu makes it easy and impossible at the same time, because honestly, almost every corner of this island photographs well. Golden beaches, lush mountains, tropical sunsets, you name it. But some spots consistently outperform the rest, whether you're booking a couples session, an engagement shoot, a family portrait, or a maternity session. Here's my actual list, the ones I come back to again and again.
1. Lanikai Beach
I'm not exaggerating when I say Lanikai is one of the most beautiful beaches I've ever shot at, and I've shot at a lot of beaches. Soft white sand, turquoise water, and the Mokulua Islands sitting right there in the background, it barely needs any help from me. Get there early though. Parking fills up fast and that early light is worth losing a little sleep over.
• Best for: Couples, engagement, honeymoon, family
• Best time: Early morning golden hour
• Tip: Arrive early — parking is limited and sunrise light is magical here
2. Kualoa Regional park
If you want something a little more dramatic, Kualoa Ranch is the move. Sweeping green valleys, cliffs, ridgelines that look almost too perfect to be real. You've probably seen it before, it's the Jurassic Park backdrop, and it photographs exactly as cinematic as you'd expect.
• Best for: Couples, engagement, family
• Best time: Late afternoon for soft, diffused light
3. Waimea Bay and the North Shore
The North Shore has a different energy entirely, raw and a little wild. Waimea Bay brings dramatic rock formations and big winter surf, while the surrounding area stays lush and relaxed most of the year. It's a great pick if you want something that feels more adventurous than a typical beach session.
• Best for: Couples, engagement, adventure-style sessions
• Best time: Sunset
4. Ko Olina Lagoons
Ko Olina's four lagoons are basically foolproof. Calm water, white sand, and some of the most vibrant sunsets on the island. I especially like these for maternity sessions and sessions with little kids, since the water stays so still and manageable.
• Best for: Family, maternity, couples
• Best time: Sunset
• Tip: Calm lagoon waters are ideal for maternity sessions and little ones
5. Diamond Head
There's something about Diamond Head that just says Hawaii the second you see it. Whether we shoot near the base or from a nearby lookout, it gives every photo a strong sense of place. Late afternoon is my favorite time here, when the light wraps around the crater just right.
• Best for: Couples, family, engagement
• Best time: Late afternoon when light wraps around the crater
6. Makapu'u Lookout
Makapu'u Lookout might be my favorite viewpoint on the whole island. The coastal views, the rugged cliffs, that impossibly blue water, it's a completely different kind of backdrop than a beach. Go in the morning if you can. The light is better and you'll beat most of the crowds.
• Best for: Couples, engagement
• Best time: Morning for golden light and fewer crowds
