Narrowing down Oahu photoshoot locations doesn’t have to be difficult. There’s so many to choose from but a few basic parameters for families and convenience will narrow the pool very quickly!
As a mom, I have several things I require for my kids to be comfortable and cooperative – mostly based on experience.
When my boys were ages 3, 5, 6, and 8, I hired a solid photographer for a simple family shoot. Even though she was technically capable, she was not able to engage my four very young boys in a meaningful way that brought out their personalities… much less maintain their attention and keep it fun. On top of that, she took us to a beach that was so rocky we could barely WALK, much less run and play freely.
You can almost see the tension in my husband’s neck from getting them to cooperate!
Lesson learned. If the kids can’t be themselves and be safe, its a major no-go.
As a photographer I have several technical requirements, many of which overlap with my mom specs!
Table of Contents
Oahu Photoshoot Locations: Mom Requirements
As I mentioned above, kids need the freedom to be themselves – and do so safely. The edge of a road, or a rocky beach are not going to work for them or for my style of photography.
If the kids aren’t having fun, no one is!
Rule number 1: a wide and safe place for kids to do what they want.
I also want the location to be convenient to your hotel or rental. There’s no need to drive an hour out of the way (totally possible!) when there’s a place within walking distance.
- Soft, walkable sand
- Open and wide space whether a beach or park
- Relatively easy parking
- Easily accessible – we’re not hiking half a mile to get there!
- Convenient location – we’re not driving an hour either.
This list is very similar to my favorite beaches on Oahu for families. Check it out if you’re looking for a place to spend the day relaxing!
Oahu Photoshoot Locations: Photography Requirements
As a photographer I want my clients (kids too!) to be comfortable. If we’re stiff for any reason it’ll show in the final images. That means finding a place that is conducive for everyone, even if there are physical limitations.
What I look for in beach photo locations
As a mom, I want my kids to have the freedom to move and be themselves (read: loud)
- Soft sand
- Easy parking
- Easy to get to
- Room to run
- Few crowds (so we don’t disturb at anyone)
- Toilets and showers, if possible
As a photographer, I want easy accessibility, few crowds, soft sand to play in, and good light. Always good light!
- Soft sand to play in
- easy parking
- Easy to get to
- Room to run and play
- Few crowds to get in our way
- Great light – always.
So basically the same things!
Alison’s Favorite Top 2 Oahu Photoshoot Locations
My favorite two places for Oahu family photoshoots are Kaaawa Beach & Paradise Cove Beach.
The beach is almost always my favorite for open light, no dark circles under eyes and soft sand kids can be themselves
My top 2 Oahu photoshoot locations are:
Kaaawa Beach
Paradise Cove Beach near Disney Aulani
Additional Oahu Photoshoot Locations
Some other Oahu locations for photos that are great options:
- Kualoa Beach Park across from Kualoa Ranch
- Lanikai Beach
- Kailua Beach
- Waialea Beach
- Sandy Beach
- North Shore
Oahu Photoshoot Locations I Avoid
I actively avoid photoshoot locations with a lot of people, or lots of trees. That doesn’t mean photos in those places can’t be done well, its just super difficult. I’d much rather make it easy for my client.
I avoid:
- Waikiki because there’s too many people
- Lots of trees because it can create a green skin tone or dark circles under eyes
- Anything in the evening because of crowds
More Resources on Oahu Family Photos
- Top 5 Reasons You MUST Do a Morning Photoshoot In Hawaii
- Recreate Your Trip Forever: Disney Aulani Photos for Extended Families
- Top 2 Oahu Photoshoot Locations for Families & Groups
- Featured: I’m Possible Spousely Podcast
- The Best Personalized Family Photo Albums
Keep reading about Puget Sound Birth Center and birth photography.
I'm a USMC spouse, South Carolina native, recovering homeschool mama of a 4 boy circus. They've taught me the most important facet of family photography: KEEP IT FUN!
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Thanks for sharing some great tips about what to look for in a good photo location. I always struggle with locations being easily accessible but not overcrowded – it’s a constant battle. lol
Total battle! I shoot at sunrise most of the time for that reason.
I love your top 2 Oahu locations and I love that you included places you don’t like.
Thanks! Yes! Those other spots are pretty but not the best ;D
How gorgeous! Location scouting can be such pain- what an awesome list you’ve compiled.
It really can! Especially when you’re new to an area. It takes a full year to see the sun change during each season.
I used to do photo sessions at KoOliona all the time! That’s where I did my first “Professional” photo session!
What were your other favorite go-tos?!
This is such a helpful post. Sometimes location is the thing that stumps me the most when I’m in a new location. Love this.
I agree! I spend a lot of time exploring, studying and researching!
Now you have me dreaming of an Oahu vacation! These locations are stunning.
Let’s do it!! We get to be so picky. Just about everything is beautiful!