Everyone knows that the Hawaiian Islands are a feast for a photographer's eyes. But if you really want to capture the essence of paradise, get up early, grab your camera, and go for a walk.

Morning on Oahu by Derrick Story

Usually, I'm up early anyway, because that's the best time for snorkeling. So I pack my Lowepro Photo Sport Shoulder 18L with my mask, snorkel, a towel, and the Olympus Tough compact camera.

The cool think about having a tough camera, is that I don't have to leave it on the beach while I'm in the water. Plus, I love getting all those fish and turtle shots.

The bottom line is, what ever your excuse to get up early once or twice on a vacation, the benefits remain the same. You'll be rewarded with images that others miss. (You can imagine what this beach looks like only an hour later.)

Join me on my Instagram site as I explore the world of mobile photography. And now Instagram features 15-second movies too.

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