Nice sandy beaches, wonderful surf (often out aways) and protected bathing and swimming areas for exercising (even swimming laps). Reasonably safe street lanes for bicycling. Welcome level sidewalks for jogging, and walking. It's a perfect location for picture-taking, especially those stunning sunsets.

My Proposal Okay, so let's multi-task as we walk through Ala Moana Park. Together, we'll visit iconic park locations (my favorites). And, I'll share with you my picture-taking techniques. Deal? Acceptable plan?

Now, here is one very simple technique. For example, at each stop, IF you step forward, back up, move to your right, or shift a little to your left, does this enhance (better frame) your image? Please consider this simple, but potentially powerful strategy.

Also, close-ups give interesting detail about a subject. But, the context (the potentially fascinating setting) is left out. So, the photographer must make critical choices.

Grandpa Schroer, my maternal Grandfather, helped model many of these refined techniques. And, of course, "practice makes perfect."

I'll show you, which to me, are the most iconic images around the park. The landscape, of course, stays the same. But, the weather patterns, at each sunrise, throughout the day, and at subsequent sunsets are constantly shifting. And, ah those skittish rainbows, especially double rainbows are notoriously illusive, fleeting. So, it goes without saying, one needs to be at the right spot at the right time. And the activities by park visitors including people, animals, and birds of all kinds, are in flux - constantly changing. And, wildlife is especially uncooperative for not hanging around to smile for your snapshot. Therein, I believe, especially lies the unpredictable opportunities of taking great snapshots.

I propose entering Ala Moana Park by her "Diamond Head" side (east entrance / exit). Please take some time to examine features of this entrance. Then, let's head "Ewa side" (due west) along the garden walkways and circle counterclockwise around the park. The park is an estimated 1 mile across from east to west. Along the way are majestic Banyan trees. Long stretches of the walkway are shaded.

Then, on our backstretch, we can stroll along the beach (often with gentle tradewinds blowing in our face) with it's variety of incredible ocean, Magic Island and Diamond Head views.

Okay. So, let's get started. We're off to discover new scenery and stumble across park wildlife (some birds are so friendly, they may even shake your hand) and take in the wide variety of activities of local residents and visitors.

Here is my initial series of snapshots to get us started!!! Ready, set, go.