6 Tips for Planning a Smooth Family Photo Session in Hawaii

Capturing family memories while on vacation in Hawaii is a perfect way to preserve the beauty and joy of your trip. Here are some tips to ensure that your session goes smoothly and results in beautiful, timeless photos:

1. Schedule a Morning Session for Younger Kids

If you’re traveling from the U.S. or Canada, your younger children will likely be jet-lagged, waking up earlier than usual. This can work to your advantage! A morning photo session ensures they’re well-rested and happy, and the soft morning light provides a beautiful, natural backdrop. It also means that you have the rest of your day ahead of you. Most sunrise photo sessions take place between 6AM-730AM throughout the year, but be sure to check with your photographer as this will differ depending on their style. If you'd like to do a sunset photo session, be sure to schedule it at the end of your stay so that your child has enough time to acclimate to the timezone.

2. Choose a Convenient Location or Plan to Explore another area of the island

Convenience is key when traveling with little ones. Consider scheduling the photo session at a location close to your hotel to keep things easy and stress-free. If you're traveling to Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, Waikiki or Ko Olina are excellent options. They are not only convenient but the weather there is more stable than other areas. If you’re feeling adventurous, and want to take advantage of your child waking up early, choose a more scenic spot farther from your accommodation, such as Lanikai or perhaps the North Shore of Oahu near Turtle Bay, and plan to explore the town afterward. Your photographer should have tips on places you could explore after your photo session.

3. Opt for Comfortable Clothing and Footwear

Make sure everyone is comfortable in what they’re wearing. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics that allow your kids to move freely, as sessions often include candid, playful shots. While it’s fun to dress up, make sure outfits are practical for running around the beach or exploring Oahu’s natural beauty. Bring a towel, change of clothing and comfortable footwear if you plan to explore the area after the session. Having a large water jug to rinse your feet can also be helpful to have on hand as not all beaches have a shower to rinse off. Having a foldable travel potty can also be helpful as well, as not all beaches have a restroom.

4. Incorporate a lei into your Hawaii family photo session

Embrace the rich cultural beauty of Hawai'i by incorporating a lei po'o—a traditional flower crown worn by girls and women. The lei po'o is more than just a beautiful accessory; in Hawaiian culture, it represents respect, love, and connection to nature. Each lei, whether worn on the head (lei po'o) or around the neck, carries deep significance and is often given to honor someone on special occasions like celebrations or to show gratitude.

Wearing a lei during your family session adds a meaningful touch that highlights the tropical, aloha spirit of Hawai'i while also honoring its traditions. 

5. Find the Best Photographer for Your Hawaii Vacation

When planning your Hawai'i vacation, selecting the right photographer can significantly enhance your experience and the quality of your photos. Start by ensuring your photographer is registered with the state of Hawai'i and carries proper insurance. This not only confirms their legitimacy as a business but also reflects their professionalism and reliability. You should also take some time to look through their google reviews and instagram if they have one.

Equally important is finding a photographer whose style resonates with you. Consider their editing style (e.g. light/airy, dark/moody), the outfits and colors they recommend, and their posing techniques (e.g. portraits, lifestyle, combo). Each photographer has a unique artistic vision, and choosing one that aligns with your aesthetic will increase the likelihood that you'll love your photos. Once you've found a list of photographers, you can go through them to find who fits within your budget, and from there figure out who is the best fit for your family. It is important to not just select a photographer based on who is the cheapest, as cheaper is not always better especially with family photography which takes various types of skills. This attention to detail will help you capture the essence of your unique family in a way that feels authentic and personal.

6. Relax and Enjoy the Experience

Finally, the key to a successful family photo session in Hawaii is to enjoy the experience. Don’t worry about perfection—authentic, joyful moments are what you want to capture. Whether it’s a quiet cuddle with your baby or a playful splash in the ocean, these moments are the ones you’ll treasure forever.