Family Adventure Session on The Big Island: A Morning at Hapuna Beach and Hawaii’s Only Frank Lloyd Wright Home
Planning a family vacation to the Big Island of Hawaii is a dream come true for many, and what better way to remember your time here than with a family adventure session? As a family photographer specializing in capturing the natural beauty of the Big Island and the connection within families, I recently had the pleasure of photographing a sunrise session at Hapuna Beach followed by intimate moments at Hawai’i’s only Frank Lloyd Wright home in Waimea. This session was not only visually stunning but also full of playful, candid moments that beautifully documented this family’s unique bond. We started with the soft cotton candy skies at Hapuna Beach for sunrise. We went on a walk and ended at their home away from home: The Frank Lloyd Wright Property. They enjoyed playing music together, eating fruit in the sunlight, and running around together. It was such a fulfilling morning.
The Adventure Begins at Sunrise on Hapuna Beach
Hapuna Beach, one of the most iconic beaches on the Big Island, offers a golden expanse of soft sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning sunrise views that make it the perfect spot for a family photo session. For this session, we met just before dawn to take advantage of the soft, golden light of sunrise. The kids ran barefoot along the shoreline, splashing in the gentle waves, while their parents strolled hand-in-hand, soaking in the peaceful morning.
What I love most about adventure sessions is how relaxed and organic they feel. Families aren’t posed in stiff, unnatural ways; instead, I encourage movement, play, and laughter. At Hapuna, the family’s natural joy came to life as we built sandcastles, explored tide pools, and even had a little game of chase along the water’s edge. These moments were balanced with softly guided poses to capture those frame-worthy smiles and connections.
For families planning their trip, Hapuna Beach is a must-visit. Arriving early not only offers the best light for photos but also means fewer crowds, giving you a tranquil and intimate experience.
A Unique Backdrop: Hawai’i’s Only Frank Lloyd Wright Home
After a fun-filled morning at the beach, we headed to this family’s Airbnb in Waimea, which just so happened to be Hawai’i’s only Frank Lloyd Wright home. Nestled in the lush green hills of Waimea, this architectural masterpiece offered a completely different aesthetic to complement their photos.
The home’s design, with its sweeping lines, warm wooden accents, and seamless connection to the natural surroundings, provided a stunning backdrop. The kids played in the sprawling yard, with the rolling hills and distant mountains as their playground. Indoors, the family cozied up in the uniquely designed living spaces, filled with soft, natural light that gave the images a warm and inviting feel.
If you’re planning a family session on the Big Island, consider incorporating a unique location like your vacation rental or a nearby landmark. It adds a personal and meaningful touch to your photos while showcasing the diverse beauty of the island.
What to Expect During a Family Adventure Session
My family adventure sessions are designed to tell the story of your time together. The balance of 60% natural, documentary-style moments and 40% guided poses allows for a gallery that’s both authentic and visually stunning.
Here’s what you can expect:
Relaxed Guidance: I’ll guide you throughout the session, so you never feel unsure about what to do. From playful activities to simple moments of connection, you’ll be in good hands.
Focus on Fun: Adventure sessions aren’t about perfection—they’re about celebrating your family just as you are. Expect lots of movement, laughter, and moments of pure joy.
Diverse Backdrops: Starting at a beach like Hapuna for those iconic Hawaii views and moving to a secondary location like your vacation rental or a local park creates variety in your gallery.
Making Memories on the Big Island
Whether you’re staying in Waimea, exploring the Kona coastline, or adventuring in Volcano National Park, a family adventure session is the perfect way to preserve your time on the Big Island. Hawaii isn’t just a destination; it’s a feeling—a connection to nature, to loved ones, and to yourself.
If you’re ready to book your family adventure session, let’s plan a day that’s as unique and special as your family. Whether it’s sunrise on the beach, exploring lush jungles, or capturing candid moments at your home away from home, I’ll be there to guide you and turn these moments into lasting memories.
Your Hawaii family adventure session awaits—let’s make magic together!