When should I book my portrait session?

For visitors traveling to Hawaii, we recommend booking your session in the first few days of your vacation. This allows for us to reschedule in case of bad weather.

What locations do you service?

Surf City Images is based in Kailua-Kona, Big Island Hawaii. We service most of West Hawaii Island including South Kona, Kealakekua, Captain Cook, Holualoa, Kailua-Kona, Kaloko, Four Seasons Hualalai, Waikaloa Beach Resort, Mauna Lani Beach Resort, Hapuna Beach, Mauna Kea Beach Resort, Waimea, and South Kohala.

Please note some locations may require a travel fee and/or photography permit. This will be included in your quote if applicable.

What should I wear for my beach portraits?

It’s best to plan ahead. You don’t have to be “matchy-matchy”, but you should make sure that colors and patterns look cohesive. Stay away from loud patterns, or colors. Black or dark clothing can be problematic at beaches and coastline that contains dark lava rocks as it may be difficult to separate the dark clothing from the background. Some good options are all white or combinations of white, blue, denim, khaki, and complimentary pastel colors.

Do not wear uncomfortable and unstable shoes. Bring a pair of water shoes or sandals in case we need to walk over rocks or water.

How do I pay for my session?

Once your quote is approved you will be sent an invoice for your session retainer. This may be paid via Paypal or credit card.

What are your rates?

Please visit our Pricing & Inquiries Page for rates and booking inquiries

How long does it take to receive my images?

This actual time depends on many factors. Generally no longer than
Headshots 7 days
Portrait sessions 10
Weddings 30 days

Do you offer military discounts?

We value your service to our country & public safety by offering a 15% discount on your session fee. (Not to be combined with any other offer, must book directly with Surf City Images) Use discount code “thankyou” when enquiring or booking.

Do you offer kamaaina rates?

10% Kamaaina discount available for Hawaii residents on all beach and studio portrait sessions (not to be combined with any other offer, must book directly with Surf City Images) Use discount code “kamaainaphotos” when enquiring or booking.

Do you offer hair and makeup?

You bet! Professional hair and makeup can help you look and feel like a better version of yourself. Our recommended professional hair and makeup artists are experienced in wedding and photography makeup.

What color backgrounds do you offer for headshots & studio portraits?

We have a variety of backgrounds in our studio including:

• Seamless white
• Seamless black
• Seamless medium gray
• Chroma green screen
• Environmental headshots (outdoor soft focus)

Where is your studio located?

Surf City Images Portrait Studio is located at 75-5782 Kuakini Hwy #C3D, Kailua Kona, Hi 96740

Studio map & parking information

What are your studio hours?

Our studio hours vary. Please call, text or message for availability.

What should I bring?

If your family session includes children or pets please bring snacks, drinks, and toys to get their attention.

Who chooses the final image?

You, of course. After your images are edited you will receive a proofing gallery for you to select your images for downloading and printing?

Do you have business insurance?

Yes, I maintain liability insurance which allows me to obtain photography permits when necessary from the state & county film permit office. Many wedding venues will require an insurance endorsement from photographers and other vendors. Please advise when booking any requirements.

Can I have a variety of posed and candid shots during my session?

Yes, of course. We’re open to any styles and ideas

How do I book my session?

Please visit our Pricing & Inquiries Page for rates and booking inquiries

What if it rains?

Weather in Hawaii can be hard to predict. Fortunately, it doesn’t rain that often in West Hawaii and when it does it usually doesn’t last long. We do our best to monitor the situation and if necessary change locations or reschedule. If possible we prefer for you to schedule your session during the first few days of your vacation

Do you offer in-person consultations?

Yes, we would love to meet with you at our Kona studio. There we can get acquainted and plan our session. For weddings, I recommend meeting at your venue or beach wedding location.

Phone or video chat is also an option if we’re not able to meet in person.

Is there a travel fee?

Locations outside of Kona may require a travel fee depending on the location and length of your session. Please inquire when booking your session.

What type of portrait sessions do you offer?

We offer family, engagement, surprise proposals, couples, boudoir, maternity, children’s, lifestyle, senior, graduation, underwater, individual, and pet portrait sessions.