Go behind the scenes with Heather Eijzenga of Little Bird Photography + Films to hear what it’s like to be a family photographer in the tropical dreamland of Oahu, Hawaii .
1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your website/company if applicable?
I am a photographer and filmmaker focusing on families who love to play. I like to bring out the kid in everyone and get them climbing trees, digging in the sand, and splashing in the water. Most importantly, I seek out the connections and little gestures of love I find as families play together. It makes me feel good about humanity. I get to see the best in my clients and that’s really special.
2. What type of photography do you shoot? Landscape, sports, maternity, underwater, family, senior, wedding, engagement, etc.?
My focus is on families including newborns and maternity sessions, but I shoot the occasional wedding or couple when I find a good match for my style. For most of my sessions I use an underwater housing that allows me to close to the action and capture creative angles.
3. What inspired you to be a photographer?
When I was eight, I discovered an abandoned camera at the playground. I’ve been hooked ever since. Many people have told me over the years to “put the camera down and enjoy the moment”, but I find that the camera enhances the experience for me. Viewing the world as a photographer helps you slow down and take in the beauty around you.
I went into family photography specifically when I realized its power to tell a story. I could create these little time capsules to transport me back in time to different ages and stages of life.
4. Did you go to school/training for photography or self-taught?
I have no formal education in photography, but regularly seek to improve my skills through online classes, workshops, mentorships, and endless practice. You can study for years and there always seems so much more to learn.
5. What has been the best source of training? (field workshops, classroom training, mentors, YouTube, etc)?
Personally, I benefit most from small group workshops and mentorships. It’s a more enjoyable way to learn and more efficient because I can get direct feedback.
6. What camera equipment do you use?
I have some old film cameras, but I primarily use a Canon 5D mark iii and iv with a series of prime lenses. For underwater work I have an Aquatech housing.
7A. Where is your favorite spot in Hawaii for sunrise?
Ooh, this is hard. Probably Makapuu – the sand dunes, the rocky shore, cliffs, and the light on the salt spray …. it makes for a spectacular sunrise and there are so many ways to shoot it.
7B. Where is your favorite spot in Hawaii for sunset?
Can I have two favorites? I love shooting sunrise in the water on the north shore during the calm summer months. So pretty to watch the light dance on the waves. But I also love Kualoa Beach Park with its views of Kaneohe Bay. Maybe I shouldn’t share that one since I like it best when no one else is there
8. Do you sell your services, photographs and/or products? If yes, please explain:
Absolutely, I love to meet and photograph fun families around the Islands. I also have a small print shop on my website where I sell Hawaii prints.
9. What software do you use to edit your photos?
Lightroom and Photoshop if an image needs extra TLC.
10. If you had to start over and you had $10K what 3 photography related items would you buy first?
I love my Canon 5D mark IV so I would start there (maybe go refurbished to save some $) and I love all my prime lenses but my 50mm lens (Sigma Art f/1.4) is most versatile and a favorite. After that, extra batteries and cards. That setup will get you far.
11. What advice do you have for aspiring photographers?
Don’t worry about what anyone else is doing – shoot things that make you feel. That will lead you to your personal style and will be most rewarding.
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