About Our Portrait Photography Studio

Professional Portrait Photography in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Aloha, my name is Cheryl Valle and I’m the owner of Surf City Images.

My specialty is portrait photography – from professional in studio headshots, to underwater and Hawaiian beach shoots. With each photo I take, I strive to bring forth your individual personality and unique traits. I understand what anxiety can feel like in front of the camera, and I know how to help you relax and open up so you look genuine – like yourself.

From 1990 to 2016, I worked as a 911 dispatcher and crisis negotiator. When I picked up my first DSLR camera to capture my daughter’s karate tournaments, photography became my stress relief and creative outlet. I was instantly hooked. My ability to keep calm under pressure, give good direction, and put people at ease help me to create beautiful images and a fun photo shoot experience my clients love.

I am passionate about continuing education as a professional, and I am always looking for new ways to help me better understand and master my craft. I have had the opportunity to attend numerous live workshops from Joe McNally, Lindsay Adler, Roberto Valenzuela, Frank Dorhoff, Kalyee Greer, Tim Wallace, and Joel Grimes. I am a Certified Professional Photographer with the Professional Photographers of America and a PADI Underwater Photographer.

Whether we meet on one of the Big Island’s stunning beaches, beneath the waves (bring your mermaid tail), or in my Ali’i drive studio, I have the tools to create the portrait you have in mind.