Family Adventure Photography | Exploring Windward Oahu

The Country Life

Alex and his family live the country life on Oahu. A path on one side of their house leads to a small stream where they spend many days happily exploring. If they want bigger water, they simply head across the street to Kahana Bay. Their small community is isolated and that brings them closer together. It’s not unusual to return home to a gift of ripe papayas or bananas on your doorstep.

They delighted in this slow pace of life in idyllic valley tucked away from the hectic pace elsewhere on Oahu. It’s been their beloved home since their daughter was born, but that was about to change. With heavy hearts, they needed to make a big move to the mainland. Our photo session was a way to capture one of their favorite family rituals so they could always keep it in their hearts.

Sunrise at Kahana Bay

Kahana Bay has a wild feel. It’s one of the rainiest areas on the island. As a result, the surrounding mountains and valley are a deep green and often cloaked in rain clouds. It’s a dramatic backdrop to a family photo session and a fun place for any kid to explore. Crabs scuttle along the shore while small fish swim in the shallow rivulets leading to the ocean. The waves are long and gentle and there is usually a tree swing somewhere in the bay. For adults, the perfectly spaced trees along the shore demand a hammock and a long nap.

I was expecting the typical gloom that hangs over Kahana, but on this particular morning, we were met with sunshine. Bright rays streamed over the adjacent ridgeline where ambitious hikers were already taking in the view from above. An extremely low tide mirrored the surrounding beauty and made for an excellent, natural splash pad. The family wasted no time. This was their home and the raced straight to the ocean to play in the shallows.

After a bit of fishing and hide-and-seek in the adjacent forest, it was time for waves. The tide was low enough that we were easily able to walk out to the sandy shores adjacent to the fish pond. The views were breathtaking, but our focus was on the perfect sandcastle followed by the perfect wave. We mastered them both.

What Does A Great Day Look Like for Your Family?

Let’s head to the beach or mountains for some much-needed family time and a bit of adventure. We’ll have a great morning and you can walk away with beautiful images that feel like you. Find out more about my fun family photography sessions here.