When I visit Oahu, I always look for the most beautiful places to capture in my photos.
The island has beaches, rocky coastlines, and green mountains that make any picture stand out.
I want to help you find the best photography locations on Oahu so you can take great pictures on your trip.
Whether you use a phone or a camera, Oahu has easy-to-reach spots full of natural beauty.
Oahu Photography Tours
When I joined Oahu Photography Tours, the guides welcomed us right away.
They made everyone feel comfortable, no matter what kind of camera we brought.
Our group was small, so we spent extra time at each stop.
The guides shared helpful photo tips and even took pictures of us at each location.
They knew the best spots on the island, including some hidden places.
The sunrise tour was my favorite because we saw Oahu in the early light with almost no one else around.
We learned about Hawaiian history and culture during the tour.
It felt like an adventure, a photography lesson, and a local’s view of Oahu all in one.
Rating: 5 (1027 reviews)
Location: 2421 Tusitala St APT 801, Honolulu, HI 96815
Contact: (808) 679-1938
Website: Visit Website
Marella Photography
I recently booked a session with Marella Photography, and it was a great experience.
The photographer welcomed me and made me feel at ease, which helped me relax in front of the camera.
They focused on capturing real moments, not just posed shots.
Marella Photography offers sessions for families, couples, graduates, and weddings.
I chose a family session, and we shot at a beach location with beautiful views.
The photos highlighted both my family and the stunning Hawaii background.
Marella Photography is based in Honolulu but offers sessions across Oahu, including Waikiki, Kailua, and Waimanalo.
They also work on other islands if needed.
Their flexibility helped me get photos in a less crowded area.
I received my images quickly, and the quality impressed me.
The photos captured the emotions of the day and the scenery around us.
Rating: 5 (98 reviews)
Location: 1212 Punahou St, Honolulu, HI 96822
Contact: (808) 722-6672
Website: Visit Website
Kiefer Photography
I visited Kiefer Photography for a session and felt welcomed right away.
The studio has a calm, professional atmosphere that helped me feel comfortable in front of the camera.
The photographer listened to what I wanted and gave helpful suggestions.
The location is easy to find and in a quiet part of Honolulu, making it a good spot for portraits.
Parking nearby made things easy for me.
Booking was simple, and communication was fast and clear.
Everything went smoothly from start to finish.
The finished photos looked natural and well-lit, showing the real Oahu colors.
Rating: 5 (91 reviews)
Location: 5404 Halapepe St, Honolulu, HI 96821
Contact: (808) 386-9291
Website: Visit Website
Kai-Photo Hawaii
When I visited Kai-Photo Hawaii, the photographers made me feel welcome.
They took time to understand what I wanted, and I felt comfortable from the start.
The studio atmosphere was calm and relaxed, which helped me during the shoot.
This team cares about capturing real memories, not just posed photos.
They work at all kinds of events, from weddings to family gatherings, in Honolulu and across different Hawaiian islands.
Their photographers look for genuine moments, which makes their pictures feel natural.
Some of their work has appeared in wedding magazines and on TV.
Local hotels and venues also recommend them, which made the process easier.
When I looked at my photos, I saw their attention to detail and skillful use of light.
Their professionalism stood out.
They were organized, easy to reach, and always happy to answer my questions.
Rating: 5 (117 reviews)
Location: 7040 Hawaii Kai Dr #25411, Honolulu, HI 96825
Contact: (808) 591-1882
Website: Visit Website
Koasis Photography
When I visited Koasis Photography on Oʻahu, I noticed right away that they care about personal service.
The team was friendly and listened to the kind of photos I wanted.
They explained that they shoot weddings, family gatherings, business events, and real estate.
Koasis welcomes all kinds of projects and people from everywhere.
They mainly work on Oʻahu, but they can travel to other Hawaiian Islands if needed.
Their approach is flexible, and they plan each session to match what you want.
They suggested great spots like Sandy Beach, Magic Island, and Turtle Bay.
They also know hidden spots only locals might know about.
Whether it’s a sunrise by the shore or a sunset in the mountains, they help clients pick the right backdrop.
Booking was easy through their website contact form.
Koasis made planning a shoot stress-free, and they followed up quickly.
After the session, they provided a gallery where I could view and download all the photos.
Rating: 5 (150 reviews)
Location: 4020 Lurline Dr, Honolulu, HI 96816
Website: Visit Website
Sky and Reef Photography
When I visited Sky and Reef Photography in Kailua, I immediately felt welcome.
Tara, the photographer, makes clients feel comfortable and relaxed.
Her photography style is bright and colorful.
She captures both candid moments and posed shots.
Each picture tells a story, and the final images show everyone’s personalities.
Tara has a strong reputation on Oahu, and she has won wedding photography awards.
She’s been recognized by The Knot and featured in online publications.
If you want lively and authentic photos, this is a great spot.
Tara’s attention to detail and easy-going attitude made my visit enjoyable.
Rating: 5 (164 reviews)
Location: 668 Keolu Dr, Kailua, HI 96734
Contact: (808) 688-3396
Website: Visit Website
Studio The Vibe
I visited Studio The Vibe in Honolulu and was impressed by how clean and modern it felt.
The space was organized and filled with natural light, which made it easy to focus on getting great photos.
The staff were friendly and answered all my questions.
I felt comfortable setting up my gear and trying different backgrounds and props.
There was enough room for portraits, group photos, and creative setups.
Parking was easy to find.
The location is central, so I didn’t have to drive far from downtown.
The atmosphere made my photo session relaxed.
Rating: 5 (208 reviews)
Location: 1200 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814
Contact: (808) 222-2523
Website: Visit Website
Oahu Hawaii Photographer
I booked a session with Oahu Hawaii Photographer and felt relaxed and had fun the whole time.
The photographers were easy to talk to and made sure I felt comfortable, whether I was solo or with family.
They knew where to go for the best shots, from sunny beaches to hidden waterfalls.
I liked how they captured candid moments—nothing felt stiff or overly posed.
The “Aloha Spirit” came through in the photos.
They offer packages for families, couples, and hotel photo shoots.
If you want sunset photos, they know how to get that perfect golden light.
Everything about working with them felt personal, and their experience showed.
Rating: 5 (19 reviews)
Location: 2161 Kālia Rd #119C, Honolulu, HI 96815
Contact: (808) 354-0469
Website: Visit Website)
Masha Sakhno Photo
I recently worked with Masha Sakhno Photo on Oahu and immediately noticed how relaxed the whole process felt.
Masha has a calm, editorial style that helps even shy people feel comfortable.
The photos look modern but still feel timeless, perfect for couples who want something stylish and true to life.
Masha and her team know how to find the best spots on the island for photos.
She mixes well-known locations with hidden gems, so every shot feels unique.
Her knowledge of Oahu gives you a nice mix of views and backgrounds, from cliffs to beaches.
During my session, we balanced candid moments with posed shots.
Masha gave just enough direction to make everyone look their best, but she never made it feel forced.
She also replied quickly to my messages, which made planning easy.
Rating: 5 (57 reviews)
Location: 715 21st Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
Contact: (407) 443-3329
Website: Visit Website
Planning Your Oahu Photography Adventure
Planning helps me get great shots, especially with Oahu’s strong sunlight and changing weather.
By choosing the best time of day and packing the right gear, I avoid common mistakes and enjoy a smoother experience.
Best Times of Day for Photography
Early mornings after sunrise and late afternoons before sunset are my favorite times to shoot on Oahu.
The sunlight feels softer, and the sky shows richer colors during these periods, which photographers call the “golden hour.”
The beaches are less crowded, so I have more freedom to move around.
In the middle of the day, the sun gets harsh and causes deep shadows.
I usually avoid taking photos then unless I want underwater shots or cloudy landscapes.
If I visit popular spots like Lanikai Beach or Halona Cove, I arrive early to avoid crowds.
For sunset, I check local sunset times and get there early to set up before the best light.
Essential Gear for Outdoor Shoots
When I pack for a photography session on Oahu, I keep my gear list simple.
My essentials include:
- Camera (DSLR or mirrorless)
- Wide-angle lens for landscapes
- Polarizing filter to cut glare and boost sky colors
- Small tripod for sunrise or sunset shots
- Extra memory cards and batteries
Because sudden rain showers happen often, I carry a lightweight rain cover for me and my camera.
A microfiber cloth helps me wipe off salty mist.
I wear comfortable shoes and bring water since some photo spots need hiking or walking.
If I plan underwater or beach shots, I pack a waterproof camera case and a dry bag for electronics.
These keep my gear safe from sand and water, especially at places like Kailua Beach or Ko Olina.
Having the right gear lets me focus on creativity, not logistics.
Safety, Etiquette, and Local Culture
When I take photos on Oahu, I always keep safety and respect in mind.
I want to enjoy the beauty of the island while making sure I do not disturb people, property, or wildlife.
Respecting Private and Sacred Spaces
Some locations on Oahu are private property or have deep cultural importance for Native Hawaiians.
I check signs and stay off lands marked as private or kapu (forbidden).
Sacred sites, like heiau (temples) or burial grounds, are not just photo backdrops.
They are places with real meaning for locals.
I respect these spots by staying on paths, lowering my voice, and not climbing on any structures.
I try not to disrupt ceremonies or gatherings.
If I see a group or event happening, I quietly move to a different area.
I always ask for permission before taking pictures of people or cultural events.
Leave No Trace and Environmental Care
I follow the Leave No Trace principles to keep Oahu’s beaches, mountains, and parks clean and beautiful.
I pack out all my trash and make sure not to leave behind any food or gear.
When I visit places like Lanikai Beach or Kailua Beach, I stick to marked trails to avoid harming plants or sand dunes.
I avoid disturbing wildlife, picking flowers, or moving rocks so I do not damage fragile ecosystems.
I use only eco-friendly sunscreen and never feed animals, including birds and fish.
