Sunset photographer in Hawaii | Make golden beach memories together

Sunset photographer – lucky we live Hawaii

The phrase “Lucky we live Hawaii” is a common local expression. It’s a reminder to be grateful for the natural beauty surrounding us, something that’s easy to overlook amid life’s daily hustle. Whether you were born here or just visiting, the sunsets are one of the perks. As a sunset photographer, I’ve captured my fair share of stunning shows. The colors, the light reflecting off the ocean – each sunset is unique. But it’s also easy to take for granted when you see it every day. The expression helps us pause and appreciate the fact that we get to experience this island paradise.

Are Hawaii sunsets better?

Hawaii sunsets hit differently. They’re intensely colorful with deep shades of red, magenta, blue and violet often dotted or streaked with swaths of clouds. Plus, isn’t everything better when you’re lounging on the beach with your favorite people? As a local sunset photographer I may be biased but science is on my side. A combination of unique attributes make Hawaii sunsets are extra special. Here’s why –

1. Clean air. The delightful tradewinds that grace the Hawaiian Islands not only keep you cool, they also keep the air clean. Clean air is the secret ingredient in brightly colored Hawaii sunsets. Large particles of pollutants dampen the colors of sunset which is why sunsets are often muted in large cities.
   
2. A Lonely, but Lovely Location. Hawaii’s location in the middle of the Pacific allows for unobstructed views of sunset over the water. You will regularly see crowds gather along the beach at sunset to take in the show. It’s a Hawaiian tradition to blow the conch shell (Pū) at sunset to say goodbye and thank you to the end of the day. Turtle Bay has a lovely sunset ceremony and spectacular views.
   
3. Short but sweet. Being closer to the equator, Hawaii sunsets happen more quickly compared to higher latitudes. This can create more vivid and rapidly changing colors.
   
4. Volcanic activity. Although low, large particles can dampen the colors of sunset, tiny particles emitted from volcanic activity and sent high in the stratosphere can create vivid sunrises and sunsets. Don’t leave right after the sun sinks below the horizon. The show isn’t over! Volcanic twilights, known as “afterglows,” become even more brilliant.

Sunrise or Sunset photographer?

Is one better than the other? In general, sunsets are often more golden while sunrises are more pink and purple but there’s a lot of variation and both are quite beautiful.

But as a family photographer, I’m often asked which I recommend. Actually, that’s not even true. People just reach out asking for sunset portraits. Even though I’m not a morning person, I normally recommend sunrise as the best option for (most) families.

At sunset, the beaches are more crowded, it’s hotter, and it’s harder to schedule your day. If you have a busy day of fun activities planned, you’re wiped out before we even meet. For those with little kids who nap, it always seem like they have an off day and miss their nap make them exceptionally cranky by evening time.

The good news is that if you’re visiting from the mainland, jet lag is your friend. It has you waking up early at the beginning of your trip. A 6:00 am wake up call will feel more like 9:00 am for those visiting from the west coast to as late as noon for those from the east coast. We start the photo session off with soft, beautiful light while everyone is fresh and clean. As the rises and it gets bright, we can play in the water for some fun, candid shots. Afterwards, you have a whole day free to explore (or nap)!

Where to enjoy sunset

You don’t have to make your way west to enjoy sunset. Northern and southern beaches on most of the Hawaiian Islands will also give you great glimpses of the golden sun setting over the water.

On Oahu, some favorite spots include Turtle Bay Resort on the north shore and Magic Island near Waikiki Beach on the south shore.

How to Make the most of sunset?

Check this link for exact timing of sunset and then celebrate in style with one of the following options –

• Take a sunset boat cruise out of Waikiki or Koolina. It’s always fun to be on the water!
• Enjoy a beach picnic or cocktails by the shore.
• Take a hike to take in the sunset from above. Koko Head, Makapuu and Lanikai are all impressive (don’t forget a headlamp for the hike back).
• Family photos are a great way to have fun with your favorite people against the beautiful backdrop of a Hawaii sunset. Find out more about our fun family photography sessions here. Peek at a few sunset photo sessions here, here, and here.