Family Photography at Four Seasons Hualalai – Big Island, Hawaii
The wonderful thing about the Four Seasons Resort on the Big Island is the location. Perfectly located between Kona and Waikoloa, in the middle of lava fields and… well, not much else. It’s about 15 minutes from the airport and by that point, you’ve been driving for a while probably trying to find any signs of palm trees, tropical waterfalls and other “Hawaii-Esque” looking things you’ve seen on postcards and cheesy 50’s movies about Hawaii.
The thing about the Big Island is it doesn’t look like the other islands. Each island is different, and on the Big Island, you can go for miles and miles of driving, only seeing lava fields and a peek-a-boo ocean view along the way (Waikoloa). And then quite suddenly those lava fields will turn into green pastures and rolling hills (Waimea/Kohala) before making another swift turn into lush greens and rainy rainforests (Hilo). In the winter, you may even pass a snowcapped mountain along the way (Mauna Kea). The Big Island really does have it all.
To appreciate the Big Island, you have to let go of your expectations. If you spend your days here searching for palm trees, you’ll miss the stunning beauty of the pahoehoe lava fields, wild goats and calm tide pools. If you are only interested in waterfalls, you’ll miss the cows and horses in Paniolo (cowboy) country and sleepy misty towns in Honokaa.
I’ve learned a similar lesson as a family photographer. If I am too focused on expectations and things I hope to see, I’ll miss the beauty of what is right in front of me. This is why I can say that gorgeous images like this weren’t a part of the plan because I never really had one. I encourage love, exploration, togetherness and joy and though that path may seem chaotic – I know it leads to the most precious images and memories for families.
Interested in booking a Hawaii Vacation photo session for your family vacation or to celebrate a special milestone? I would be so honored to work with you all to capture your family visit to Hawaii with a stunning sunrise or sunset photo session on one of the beautiful beaches on the Big Island, Oahu or Maui. I’d love to capture memories you’ll cherish forever!
