Hawaii Photo Tours

I would recommend this tour and will do it again on my next visit to Oahu. We did the island tour in April 2018 with Marie. It was the best tour experience of our trip. Marie was engaging and knowledgeable about the history of the islands. We visited many beautiful places with the opportunity to take fabulous photos. She gave great tips on taking the best photos with a variety of cameras. We loved the small group format. It was just my husband and I and one other couple which allowed for great conversation and personalized attention. Lunch was wonderful and all the sites we visited were unusual and beautiful. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I booked the Sunrise Plus Island Tour and had a wonderful time! Bonnie was such a delight and took us to so many great spots and I learned some new photo tricks along the way. The tour was definitely the highlight of my Oahu trip!If you are looking for an informative trip with some breathtaking views and interesting attractions book a tour for yourself! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Tired of seeing my overexposed or underexposed pictures in Yelp?  Took Blue Hawaii Photo Tours to try to improve my picture taking. Sunrise tours pickups start at 530am.  Wife and I are in our mid 60s, and need all the beauty rest we can get.  So signed up for the 5 hour sunset tour, at $80 per person.  Pricey, but you get what you pay for.Tour director Marie drives a clean late model 12 passenger luxury van, arriving 7 minutes after the 2pm pickup time.  Only 1 other couple to pick up, as rain forecast.  Maximum of 7 people on tours, and no kids.  No dealing with a child with a temper tantrum.  Tell that to the 71 year old everyone knows!  Van stops at  Koko Head, and Halona Blowhole. No takers for recreating the "From Here to Eternity"  scene, although if the wife wasn't here,  I would have volunteered with Marie!    Just kidding. Further stops at Mokapu Point, and Nuuanu Pali Lookout, scene of a famous battle between ancient Hawaiian warrior tribes, and warriors pushed off the cliff.  Also saw the forbidden "Staircase to Heaven" trail along the ridge of the mountains.   In depth narration by Marie on the history and cultural aspects of Hawaiian life.  Commentary on the different animal and bird species.  Did you know that you can hunt wild boar anytime, but must use a bow and arrow?At each stop, Marie individually helped each of us improve our photography though the understanding of High Dynamic Range imaging, exposure compensation, and white balance.  The pictures in this review from my Moto G5 plus smart phone, not from my more sophisticated Nikon 16 megapixel 20 zoom pocket camera.One spot was next to a stripped motor scooter, with both tires missing.  We kept a close lookout on our van when we got out.  Rough neighborhood!Final stop was at Diamond Head Beach, to watch sunset.  Narrow access road with parking for single vehicles only.  No bus would be able to get out of that limited access way!Wife liked the tour so much, we signed up two days later for the Circle Island tour.  Four people from the rained out Friday tour joined us.   Marie will cancel a trip if it is raining too much of the day, while buses go in a monsoon..Saw shooting areas for the current Hawaii 5-0, Koko railroad trail, Gilligan's Island, Magnum PI house, polo clubs.  Stops at Turtle Bay, North Shore surf beaches.  Among other spots.  We were fortunate not to get the fourth row in the back, where you feel every bump, and can have your head hit the ceiling when going over a pothole!We've taken the great circle tour on a 48 passenger bus for $100, but this was much better even at $150.   Discount for repeat customers.  You get individual attention, and go to out of the way places no bus can go.  Marie made Hawaii a safer place, as tour took yours truly, one Driving While Asian guy,  off the road for two days! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

If you want a guide to show you a lot of the amazing things to see and do on Oahu....look no further. Marie offers a plethora of photo tour options and hands on photography tips, be it a high dollar camera or a cell phone, my wife did the cell phone and learned some cool stuff and I lugged around a Rebel T3i and thoroughly enjoyed our adventure.  We got to see a lot of beautiful places and Marie was full of historical facts.  Most tours consist of 5 to 8 people, no small children...older big ones like me are acceptable.  The sunrise plus island tour was spectacular and the group of shutterbugs we travelled with were extremely friendly.  Every tour is different due to weather, the time of year, etc.  We got to take pics of a giant green sea turtle that was basking in the sunlight on...Turtle beach.  We took a phot tour from another company last year and it was very good, but this was our favorite....good job Marie, thanks for showing us Oahu.  Another part of the tour I really liked was stopping at a food trailer park on North Shore...can you say garlic shrimp?  There were lots of trucks...foodie paradise.  Marie needs to do a foodie tour...sign us up! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

My aunt and I used Blue Hawaii Photo Tours last September (2016) when we went to Oahu for a family wedding. Marie took us to see some amazing sights, we went on a beautiful hike to a waterfall, and she took pics of us (together and individually) while providing us with facts and knowledge that I'd never known. She's a wonderful lady, and guide, and the sights we saw with her made beautiful memories. I will definitely do another tour with her when I'm back! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

AWESOME!!! We did the island tour with Marie and this was a wonderful way to start our week on Oahu. My husband is very knowledgeable about photography and I'm a point and shoot kind of gal. We both learned about how to take a great photo that tells a story while still showcasing the object. I think I'll be able to better point and shoot photos by making minor adjustments to the camera when necessary. We now have a list of hikes, gardens, and other excursions to do for the rest of our week. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This is probably the best tour I've ever taken on the island of Oahu. Our tour guide was Evan and Not only was he friendly professional he was also very patient especially helping me with my old school 35-millimeter camera! If I could give him a thousand stars I would but this was money well spent!!! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

The best tour Ever. Evan was an amazing tour guide and knowledgeable of cameras and what we needed to do to take great pictures. If I could give Evan more stars I truly would. I had an amazing day with the group. Thank you Evan so very much for your time  and knowledge. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I booked Blue Hawaii Photo Tours when I was in Honolulu in August 2016.  It one of the best activities I did.  Marie, my guide, quickly assessed how much I knew about photography; I knew very little.  She then took me to places on the island and showed me how to use the different functions of my camera, and explained each function very clearly to me.  I enjoyed immensely her conversations about island life while we were driving from one place to the other.  Marie knows quite a bit about the island culture which made the afternoon and evening trip fun and educational.  By the time the tour was finished I had a basic understanding of my camera, and was able for the next week to practice on my own.  I usually go to Hawaii every summer and I will sign up for another tour with her. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

One of the best tour trips I've ever taken.  I and my hubby went on the sunrise tour, which started at 5:30 AM.  Our guide Marie was an expert about the history of Hawaii and unique areas to explore that are off the beaten path of most tours.  She is also a professional photographer.  Her help and expertise in learning how to photograph sets this tour apart. In a few short hours, Marie helped me understand how to use an app for my iPhone to  adjust for  black/white balance, shutter speed, color temperature, etc.  Marie also educated other more experienced photographers on the trip as well. I took some great shots, and I'm really thrilled that I have some new skills. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Went on the sunrise photo tour today and had an incredible morning. Well worth the 6am pickup( the sun waits on no man as our host said the night before)! Now don't think you have to be a real keen photographer, my spouse and I had only Apple 6S cell phones. We had a small group of six and Marie Turner spent a lot of time with each of us, from fancy Nikons to iPhones. She showed us all sorts of features in the phone I never knew existed! She also brought us to places in 30 years of coming to the Islands I had never seen, dawn at Lanai Point, Makapu'u Lighthouse, beaches, ancient temples, jungles, waterfalls. This tour went on for six hours and we never were bored. The entire time we also heard history, geography, tales of movies filmed in various locations. It was a tour like none other and very reasonably  priced too. This tour and others Marie's company offer are highly recommended. The icing on the cake was our hostess, who was so sweet and pleasant time just flew by. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

We went on the 'sunset' tour and were NOT disappointed.  Marie was so friendly and so helpful.  She gave us tips on each of our cameras that helped us utilize them much better than we had been.  Furthermore, the locations she took us to for photo ops were outstanding; we would not have found them on our own.  And, yes, my husband got the fantastic sunset shot.  I am physically challenged by having to use a walker and not being able to walk far or up hills so the best sunset shot was beyond my reach.  Marie did everything she possibly could to help me get to 'THE' spots but the best sunset photo op was not for my ability.  My husband's shot made up for it!!  Loved the tour and enjoyed the company of Marie who was just fantastic. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Best excursion of the trip!! My daughter and I had the most amazing time!! Marie made us feel welcome from the first moment we met her. She is an awesome photographer and taught us a lot about our cameras. She even helped a man on our tour take better pictures on his smartphone. She knows her stuff!!! Marie took us to the most beautiful places on the island and to a great lunch stop!! I wish i lived in Oahu or closer to Hawaii so I can do all the tours with Marie. I miss her already!!!! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This was certainly my most favorite experience of my 6 day solo vacation in Waikiki. I wish I would have done this sooner on my trip so I knew to book a second all day tour with Blue Hawaii Photo Tours. I can't say enough about Evan he was AWESOME in so many ways. Very informative when it came to photography and the history of Hawaii. I got SO MANY AMAZING pictures, only taken with my iPhone 6. I plan to make a shutter fly book of all my pics from this tour. Keep up the good work!!! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I could not be happier that I booked this tour. In addition to seeing beautiful and breathtaking  sights I would've otherwise missed, Marie taught us how to optimally use our cameras of choice in different scenarios to get the best possible photographs. I left with some fantastic photos and a greater knowledge and appreciation of both my camera in particular and photography in general. I would definitely book again and would recommend her tours to anyone! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

An amazing trip to the most beautiful places and with a highly professional guide. We took the sunrise tour, our guide Marie picked us up at 5 a. m. and from the very start ist was a wonderful experience. Marie was incredibly nice and as a professional fotographer she had tons of tipps and helpful tricks. We saw the most beautiful sunrise at the beach, visited an old hawaiian temple, a beautiful white beach and a hidden waterfall with a magical scenery. It was worth every single penny. And to top it all off, Marie was so kind to drop a hat we forgot in the van off at our hotel the next day. If you want a wonderful day, see hidden place on the island and learn about photography you are in the right place! Oh and I did the tour with my iPhone, you dont need a professional camera to get stunning pictures! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I am a total beginner with cameras and had some people try to explain me a little about them, but only after the sunrise tour with Marie I finally understand how to get the best out of both my Nikon and my iPhone. We were picked up at 4.50 am on this early May morning and dropped back off at around 10.30 am. The stops included one for sunrise, Makapu beach, a quick breakfast in Kailua and a waterfall. Marie even provided mosquito spray for the waterfall. Not only do we have very beautiful pictures of Oahu now, but we also learned a lot about Hawaii's history. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Excellent Tour! Great way to see Island and learn how to take better photographs. Marie has a wealth of information not only about how to improve your photo taking on either a DSLR or cell phone camera but she gives you a history lesson about the Island. The tour is for any level photographer. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

BEST PHOTO EXPERIENCE EVERSpent a glorious day photographing the secret gems of Oahu. Good value, as we learned endless photo tips from Marie, a talented professional photographer whose knowledge of the island made this an unforgettable experience. Highly recommend!!!

Reviewed on Yelp

Marie provided one of the best experiences I had visiting Oahu. It was a wonderful way to see the entire island. She was patient and kind explaining how to use our cameras to capture images of the breathtaking locations she takes you to.  She is a wealth of information about the island, teaching you not only about photography, but the history and culture of Hawaii along the way. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

My husband and I joined Blue Hawaii Photo Tours along with 4 other photographers in December for the full day tour of the island.  Marie went all out for our group, engaging with each shooter from the very basic "point and shooter" to the advanced professional.  I really enjoyed the experience very much in that she took us to lots of highly dramatic sites but also was able to point out the best vantage points for shooting.  Living on the island as she does, Marie knows the tidal patterns, the micro climates and all the other little nuances that give shooters the edge.  Her goal is for every client to come away with a show-stopping photograph.  We explored beautiful beaches, lava formations, surf spots and a hidden waterfall.  I plan to take a sunset or sunrise tour with Marie the next time I visit Oahu. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

We booked our first photography tour on O'ahu.  The tour group was a party of four including Marie made 5.  Marie was an excellent guide and a true professional sharing her knowledge of photography. She gave each of us personal attention with the cameras we each had.  Gave us wonderful time and very information. We opted for the sunset tour which was 5 hours.  The tour was so entertaining the tour went by very quickly.  On our next visit within the next 6 months we're planning in the all day circle island tour.  The tour is great from beginners to professionals. I had my iPhone 6 Plus and I took wonderful pictures with it. I highly recommend this tour to all.  The tour was absolutely amazing.  This tour is sole owned by Marie. She started her photo tour April of 2014.  Please check out her tour and keep her in business.  She's absolutely fabulous! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

My friend and I were looking for a tour but couldnt quite find one to fit our time schedule. Marie rescheduled a meeting she had in order to fit us in! The tour itself was wonderful! She took us to great locations, but above all, taught us so much about our cameras and photography in general! We left feeling more knowledgeable but not overwhelmed with useless information. I highly recommend this tour to anyone. It is a wonderful way to see the island, as well as learn how to capture it's beauty with anything from an iphone to a professional camera. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This tour was awesome! Marie was a great tour-guide and she worked with each of us individually (there were 7 in my group) to "master" our cameras. It didn't matter if you used a professional camera vs your camera phone -- she had tips for everyone. We made several stops on the island including one for lunch. Marie provided bottled water and a tripod. This tour gets an A+. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

My husband and I took this tour yesterday and had a great time!  My husband is a professional photographer, I am learning to be one.  Let's just say that women are from venus and men are from mars.  We both have a very different way of learning.  Marie did an excellent job in listening to what I wanted to learn and explained different functionalities of my camera (I have a Canon 6D) that made sense!  She was also very knowledgeable about the history of photography and of Hawaii.  She is such a joy to work with, book her now! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

What an amazing experience, i ran across Blue Hawaii Photo tour when reviewing Honolulu tourist tours in trip advisor.I noticed high reviews for Blue Hawaii Photography tour and i was very happy we chose to take this tour. The van was comfortable, she provides water, umbrellas, camera tripod, and is very good at teaching basic essential points of picture taking, in breathtaking views of Honolulu and surrounding areas.Whether you are amateur photographer or pro, you will definitely enjoy this tour.We chose the sunset tour 2-730 pm with fireworks at end at Waikiki beach / park.First of all, Marie the tour guide provides everyone with a comfortable laid back informative tour of some of the best hiden spots on the island (including secluded beaches, water cliffs w spectacular breath taking views, rainforests and sunset pics at Waikiki beach).She does all the driving in a comfortable clean large ford van with A/C.She is very patient with teaching you how to use the iPhone or your personal camera including all of the complex features which I never realized I had the options for.Examples include setting light, iso, and background noise adjustments on camera...my wife had iphone 6 she provides enhanced lenses to use on tour, i had pocket Sony camera.Overall i not only learned allot about some important cultural points and tourist spots on the island, but i also significantly grew to become a much better amateur photographer. Even if it rains, Marie always has backup plans to ensure u get a great experience.I definitely enjoyed and appreciated this sunset tour and Marie the guide is a warm, kind, and sincere person who is a great guide. Also I felt the cost was very reasonable for both driving us to local tourist points and helping teach us to become better photographers. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

My hobby is photography but with my limited skills, I decided to book a photo tour while we vacationed in Oahu last June of 2015. I came across Blue Hawaii photo tours without knowing anything prior about them, but it was a great experience for me.  The owner, Marie Turner is goes above and beyond any photo tour I came across.  She is not only been traveling around the globe, but she has so much knowledge and willing to share in whatever capacity.I have learned things on my camera that I never knew was available and they will help me tremendously going forward, and I am deeply appreciated with her instructions as well as her kindness. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Marie was the best guide.  She taught my friend and I how to get the best pictures from our smartphones...She is so knowledgeable not only in photography but in Hawaiian historical sites.  I live on the island and she taught me so much...can't wait to take a tour with my family...so excited...highly recommend! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This is a fantastic tour.  My wife and I recently went on a sunset tour and it was great.  Marie is very knowledgable about local history and photography.  She showed us sites that we would have never found ourselves.  These hidden gems really expanded our appreciation for Oahu.  She was also very helpful with photography.  Her instruction was great and we showed immediate improvement.  The tour was also varied enough to practice in several different condition.  We highly recommend this tour for anyone interested in taking better photos and seeing some lesser known sites on Oahu. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This tour is a must for anyone with a camera...be it a top of the line digital SLR or a phone.  Sure you will be taken to beautiful and interesting places to photograph but that's not what makes this tour a must have.  Marie is the reason you go.  No matter what your skill and equipment level she has something to offer that will make your photographic experience better and more enjoyable.  She has a lot to offer if you are interested and will take you to places you will not find otherwise.  I actually gave her 10 stars; each one of mine count double!  I will take one of her tours every time I visit. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Wow, what a great experience!  If you are reading this review, there is no need to think twice about taking a tour with Marie!  Marie fits this tour to meet the needs of any individual.  This tour is perfect if you live on island and want a great interactive photography lesson.  It will be more than you could learn in the classroom  This tour is also great for anyone on vacation who wants a way to explore the island and get some great photographs while doing so.  Marie really takes the time to get to know the interests of each of her students.  She is a very special individual with a lot of experience that she is excited to share.  I entered the tour with a new camera, not knowing much about it, and now can't stop thinking about my next shots.  Marie is so accommodating and kind, this tour will not disappoint! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Five star tour all the way!  I joined Marie and a couple others for the sunrise photo tour.  Marie picked me up at my hotel at 5:15am and we were at the beach in time for sunrise.  Marie provided tripods, photography tips, and lots of information about the island.  Not only did she help me with my camera photography (we worked on HDR shots, aperture priority mode shots and one waterfall scene playing with shutter speeds).  No matter what level of photography you are at, Marie spends one on one time with each person on the tour so you can get the help that you need.  She also showed me a few tricks with my camera flash and Iphone HDR for later use.  This was a phenomenal morning and I would not only recommend this tour and company, but I would also excitedly go on another one of their tours myself!  Thank you Blue Hawaii Photo Tours!!!  Bravo. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This was the best tour I did in Hawaii.  Although pickups are normally in the Waikiki area, Marie made special accommodation for the fact that I was in the Navy and had to stay on my ship the previous day because of duty and picked me up right outside the gate at Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam.  My mother, who was also visiting me when my ship was in Hawaii, and I both went on the 7-hour island tour.  Along the way, we visited beaches, one of which was made of lava rock, a waterfall in a forest, a big rock that had a hole punched through it by a tsunami, and even saw a couple of sea turtles relaxing on the beach.  The best part of the tour was all the things you can learn about your camera to take better pictures.  Every stop, we learned something new to adjust for better images, including how to use a tripod to take photos that can be digitally combined for the ideal  image later.  There are a lot of settings on your camera that you can change for better photos, but you have to know what to change when.  A few days later, I ran into Marie again while I was on the beach trying to get a good picture of the upcoming sunset, disappointed that I had not captured that perfect picture of that beautiful Hawaiian sunset you see in all the pictures and postcards, and she spent a few minutes showing me how to do it.  Part luck, part location, part photo magic.So, to summarize the pros and coins of this trip:PROS:Marie was friendly, accomodating, and knowledgeable.  She knows a lot about a lot of different cameras and also gives a brief how-to on the use of digital software to take the ideal pieces of different photos and merge the pictures.  She knows some of the best spots on the island to take pictures and drives you there.  The groups are small, so he is able to spend time with each person on the tour starting at their photography skill level.  Because the groups are small and the vehicle is small, she is able to stop in locations for longer than a tour bus can.CONS:This really should have been my first tour because of everything I learned which can be applied toward future tours.  I recommend making it yours. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I have been to Hawaii over 5 times and have explored the majesty of this island each time.  Marie took us on a photo tour that delved even deeper.  We saw private beaches and secret waterfalls that only someone extremely knowledgable and detail oriented would know.  This photo tour exceeded all of my expectations.  Marie is an excellent teacher and a wonderful guide.  Thank you so much for the experience.  I highly recommend this tour to anyone who wants to learn photography or even just wants to see and experience the real beauty of Oahu. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I highly recommend this tour!I went on the Sunrise Tour today with Marie and what a wonderful morning. I learned so much from this hands on experience. She showed me how to turn the auto off my DSLR camera and take MY own pictures. I would highly recommend taking this tour early in your trip so you have the knowledge to take more beautiful vacation pictures. Thanks Marie! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

An excellent experience!  Money well spent!  I booked the sunset tour with Blue Hawaii Photo Tours, and Marie met me at my condo where I was staying on Waikiki.  She picked me up asked a few questions about what I was looking to accomplish on the tour from a photography experience.  We immediately set out to various locations that I would not have been able to have found or known about.  I came away with excellent photos and a great story to tell.  Whether you are shooting with an iPhone or a DSLR, you will NOT be disappointed! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Really a fantastic experience!  Marie is wonderfully knowledgeable about the island, its history, and the natural wonders.  She took us on an amazing hike to the summer palace of the kings, now in ruins, with a waterfall at the end.  We had our kids with us, and they enjoyed it as much as we did.  Plus Marie told us about other hidden gems to pursue on our own.  Marie is a great photographer, and happy to share her experience with us.  We'll be back! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Blue Hawaii photo tours was so worth it. I learned more on this tour about shooting a camera than I did in photography class! Marie even took us to places on the island I've never seen and I live here. She was an absolute delight and really displays the Aloha spirit so I was happy my friend who was with me, Suzanne, enjoyed herself completely as well. Mahalo nui loa Marie More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Blue Hawaii photo tours Great photo day in Oahu  We took the island tour and went to some incredible places without the crowds. Marie spends quality time with us and showed me some tricks to get better photos. The whole day was relaxing and fun...there was no rush. Highly recommended for anyone who loves photography and learning about Hawaiian culture.It was so impressive to go around with Marie, she is so warm and fun! She knows every spot most people don't know and you can catch the most amazing views.  Most important she takes her time and also she works with your pace. Having a real experienced professional photographer with you makes the biggest difference.  All my friends are set to take her tour when in Hawaii and I can't wait to go back and see her! She is now one of my vacation destinations i must go to and I know I will be in the best hands!I almost forgot her price is amazing specially for the time she spends with you! Best deal!Thank you Marie! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Marie in an awesome teacher and photographer. I learned so much from her during the tour. I've always loved photography and take lots of pictures. ..but my best ever were thanks to Marie. This tour is something you'll never forget! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

My wife and I took the Sunset Lookout photography tour with Marie and Blue Hawaii Photo Tours during our last vacation in Oahu.  It was one of the highlights of our trip.  Marie was not only a great photography instructor but also one of the best tour guides we had during our time in Hawaii.  After picking us up in Waikiki, she drove us to several amazing locations including some off the beaten path that we would never have thought to visit on our own.  At each stop, Marie helped us take some of the best vacation photos that we have ever taken.  Between the two of us, my wife and I shared one digital camera and one smart phone.  Marie was able to help us fully utilize the capabilities of each device, and we learned some really neat techniques.  The best part of the tour was ultimately the sunset lookout high above Waikiki.  We were able to capture some great photos of the sunset as well as some of Waikiki at night.  It was the perfect ending to a great day. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This tour is a must, Marie is amazing, so helpful and kind! Learn so must about the island and photography!

Reviewed on Yelp