17-Day New Zealand South Island Road Trip Itinerary (part 2): The Catlins to Lake Tekapo

From the windswept coast of the Catlins to the Southern Lights near Twizel, this part of our New Zealand road trip brought some of the most memorable moments of the journey—including waterfalls, Nugget Point at sunrise, the Milky Way, Aoraki/Mount Cook, Peter’s Lookout and Lake Tekapo.

5 Scenic Hikes on Oahu for Photographers (Beyond the Popular Trails)

Looking for the best hiking photo spots on Oahu Hawaii? This guide shares 5 scenic hikes on Oahu for photographers, featuring ridge trails, sunset viewpoints, volcanic landscapes, and lesser-known experiences beyond Waikiki.

Travel photographyBelinda ShiMay 20, 2026hiking, USA, Hawaii, Oahu, island, beach, sunset, forest, tropicalComment

2025 - A Year In Review

A reflective 2025 year in review shaped by staying rooted in Hawaii, limited travel, and intentional photography. From life on Oahu to revisiting the Pacific Northwest, this post explores how light, mindset, and clarity guided both family decisions and creative work.

A Year In Review, Travel photographyBelinda ShiJanuary 15, 2026island, Hawaii, USA, beach, sunrise, sunset, Washington, low light, forest, river, clouds, ocean, document happinessComment

8 Less Crowded Photo Spots To Capture Natural Beauty On Oahu, Hawaii

Looking for less crowded photo spots on Oahu, Hawaii? After spending months exploring the island, this travel photography guide highlights eight quieter locations—from coastal hikes to secluded beaches—where Oahu reveals its natural beauty away from the crowds.

Travel photographyBelinda ShiDecember 18, 2025coast, beach, USA, Hawaii, tropical, island, sunset, people, landscape, forest, rock, animal, candid, tree, low light, road, sandComment

Travel Photography Lesson From A Muddy Fall On Aiea Loop in Hawaii

Hiking the Aiea Loop Trail on Oahu, Hawaii taught me more about travel photography than any perfect golden hour ever could. From muddy trails to shifting fog over H3, this story is a reminder that the best images often come from the unexpected moments along the way.

people photography, Travel photographyBelinda ShiNovember 17, 2025hiking, mountain, Hawaii, fog, rain, forest, tree, family travel, people, travelComment

Oahu Beyond Waikiki (part 2) - 7 Scenic Spots You Don't Want To Miss

Discover 7 scenic photo spots on O’ahu, perfect for travel photographers seeking soulful views, quiet moments, and meaningful images beyond the tourist trail.

Travel photographyBelinda ShiJune 5, 2025USA, Hawaii, beach, hiking, forest, garden, animalComment

Our First Ever Camping Trip

We took our first camping trip as a family to the Pacific coast in Washington, featuring our favorite photo spots of the Olympic National Park along the Pacific Ocean.

Travel photographyBelinda ShiAugust 12, 2024USA, rock, beach, ocean, hiking, Road Trip, Washington, sunset, forest, tree, lake, riverComment

Family Friendly Local Spots in Olympic Peninsula

A summary of our favorite family friendly spots in the Olympic Peninsula after 10-month stay as locals.

TravelBelinda ShiMay 28, 2021USA, Washington, children, forest, mountain, beach, hiking Comments

Olympic National Park And Our Favorites

Olympic National Park is a big reason we moved to Washington, in the middle of a pandemic. After 2-3 dozens of trips over the last 6 months, we have a good list of suggestions.