The Best Places for Portrait Photography on Guam
Guam Arts Society of Photography is a local group of photogs on Guam. It's official—we even have an FB page! LOL! But seriously, we do, and it's a fun little group. Every so often, we get requests from out-of-towners or, I suppose, in our case, from off-islanders. Is that a word?! But we get asked where the best places to take photos are on the island?!
Well, let me tell you, in this beautiful little paradise we call home, there are many places to take photos of the island itself or to take portraits. Nestled in the heart of the Western Pacific, about 13 degrees north and latitude and 144 degrees east longitude, to be almost precise. Guam is a tropical paradise offering more than beautiful beaches and fabulous warm waters. If you're a professional photographer or not, and you're looking to photograph the island, here are some of the best places on Guam to consider.
Puntan dos Amantes, or Two Lovers Point, is arguably the most popular among locals and tourists. It's a 400-foot cliff with a splendid view of Tumon Bay and Hotel Row. Here are some tips: Light is best during golden hour right before sunset for softer light, and there are lookout platforms for a better view.
Another area I like to use to photograph is Ritidian Point. A few caveats, it is a Federal wildlife preserve with limited hours, and they will close their gates at 4 p.m on the dot. Ritidian Point is at the northernmost tip of Guam; it has beautiful white sandy beaches, and the beach is surrounded by lush jungle, aka THICK jungle area. You should also know that the waters can be rough during high tide. A rugged limestone cliff borders the beach area, and there is a winding road to the beach. It is a secluded area and is perfect for a quiet setting for portraits.
Remember that it is a wildlife refuge, and there are regulations to preserve the area's natural beauty, so do not bring anything out, obviously. Be aware that park rangers patrol the area. A plus is driftwood, foliage, or trees that have fallen from a previous storm or strong wind. Sometimes, these can make for creative elements in your photo.
Another quiet little place that many photographers use is Plaza de Espana, a sort of town center from the Spanish Era; it's a park now right next to the cathedral, the Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral-Basilica of Guam, and it's a beautiful park with several photo-worthy areas.
These are only a few places I prefer to go to. Still, there are so many other places where a photographer can create beautiful images. I wanted to present a few; otherwise, this story would be extremely long. Work it out with your client, or if it's for you, what are you looking for, and what is the final outcome that you're working to? That should narrow your search and bring into focus, pun intended, where you actually go to create your photos.
Guam's diverse landscapes and sites offer endless opportunities for photo sessions. Every location has its own unique charm, yielding an image tailored to your vision. Grab your gear, embrace the island spirit, and explore the beauty that is Guam.
