Photographers often prefer to shoot at sunrise or during the golden hour, and the main reason for this preference is the exceptional quality of natural light available at these specific times. During these early morning or late afternoon hours, the sunlight is noticeably softer, warmer, and more beautifully diffused than at other times of the day. This gentle lighting produces flattering shadows and highlights that add depth, dimension, and texture, enhancing the overall composition and mood of the image in a subtle yet profoundly powerful way.

It would not be advised to capture images at other times of the day because of the harsh shadows, intense bright light, and extreme heat commonly experienced in Hawaii. These conditions can negatively impact the quality of the photographs and the comfort of those being photographed.

Also consider the time change that comes with travel when planning your photo session. If you have younger children, they are most likely happier and more cooperative in the morning, making it an ideal time for photos. By the evening, they tend to be worn out from the day's activities, often hungry and grumpy, which can make the session more challenging. The photo session below was done at sunrise in Ko’olina. The children were happy and cooperative.