The Hawaiian Islands have some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Only Oahu has amazing beaches, swaying palm trees, lush rainforests, waterfalls, and the towering Ko’olau Mountains. The Big Island of Hawaii has an active volcano, a snow-capped mountain with a world-class observatory, and cattle ranches. Each of the other Hawaiian islands, Maui, Kauai, Lanai, and Molokai, also have their own unique natural beauty. So why don’t most high school students vacationing in Hawaii think about taking their senior photos here? Probably because all of his classmates are taking senior photos with the homeschool photographer.

The few students who break the mold are handsomely rewarded with exclusive senior portraits that can only be taken in Hawaii. Below are some great outdoor spots for student photography in Hawaii.

The beach

It would be given without mentioning the most popular place for portrait photography in Hawaii. There are golden sand beaches, black sand beaches (Big Island of Hawaii), beaches with lava rocks around them – the list is endless.

Botanical Garden

If you are a plant lover or would like a lush green background in your photos, consider visiting a botanical garden.

Rainforest and waterfall

Photos in a rainforest usually involve going on a hike. Several rainforest hikes have waterfalls at the end of the trail, but it may not be practical to wear multiple outfits and wade through mud. However, most local photographers will know of areas that have a rainforest feel without the hike. There are also man-made waterfalls that are easily accessible.

Orchid or tropical flower farm

You’ll need to get permission to photograph at an orchid or flower farm, but most places will grant it if you offer to buy a plant (yes, they can package orchids for air travel) and explain that the photos are for your personal use and not for business purposes. commercial. If you like a very colorful background, orchid and flower farms are good places for your senior photos.

The grounds of your hotel

Most high-end hotels have beautifully landscaped areas that make great photography spots. Unfortunately, some of these hotels charge a ridiculously high photography fee, even if the guest photos are for their personal use. The best thing to do is call the director of hotel guest services and ask him to waive the fee. Insist on using the photographer of your choice and not the expensive hotel photographer who takes boring photos. If they refuse, say that you will stay at another hotel that is more welcoming. Most likely they waive the fee because the hotels need to fill their rooms.

horse ranch

If you love horseback riding, consider taking your senior photos at a horse ranch or riding school. This will also require obtaining a permit in advance.

Chinatown or some other bustling street in Honolulu

If you want to work some culture into your session, take a walk through Honolulu’s Chinatown on a Sunday morning. Bustling markets selling fresh produce amid downtown Oahu’s historic buildings make for a funky backdrop for your senior photos.

Some senior portrait photographers, myself included, will allow photography with family members, siblings, or friends with some of the extended packages. Photo books, slideshows, and canvas prints are also offered as add-ons with their senior outdoor portrait packages. All of these are worth considering as they will make a wonderful keepsake from your trip to Hawaii.