Mentor Series - Worldwide Photo Treks!








MAUI  | December 6 - 10, 2006

Mentors | Reed Hoffmann

Join Nikon Professional photographers Reed Hoffmann and Leslie Alsheimer on a spectacular adventure with endless photo ops to a tropical paradise.

Maui, also called “Valley Isle”, is the second largest major Hawaiian island and plays host to cliffs that plunge into the deep blue waters of the north Pacific, tropical gardens, volcanoes, and a rich culture with a long standing history that can still be felt in the small villages throughout the island. With average yearly temperatures in the 70's and untouched beauty, Maui draws visitors from all over the world. From the white sand beaches to the lush, green valleys to the rainforest and desert, Maui offers any photographer and opportunity to capture its splendor at any turn.

Travel with our mentors and try out all of the latest equipment from Nikon! Including world class digital SLRs, Nikkor lenses and the Coolpix line of Digital Cameras.

Explore Kahakuloa Village, one of the most isolated locations on Maui, and catch a glimpse of the early civilizations that once inhabited the island. In and around the village are tropical gardens, quaint galleries and shops displaying the work of the local residents, even a sculpture garden. True Hawaiian lifestyle is still evident in this secluded town where you can walk through lush forests and listen to Hawaiian legends. Shoot at Kahakuloa Head, a 636-foot tall hill that overlooks the town where an old Hawaiian legend says King Kahekili used to jump from every morning into the water below.

Capture the peace and tranquility of the Iao Valley State Park in central Maui that features the 'Iao Needle', a natural 2,250-foot stone pillar that overlooks the lush valley, Iao stream and Pu'u Kukui Crater. Take up-close shots of the rare and exotic plants and vegetation that inhabit the area. Not only is the Iao Valley physically beautiful, it has a deep spiritual essence that can be felt throughout because of its rich history. The valley was the battle ground for King Kamehameha I who destroyed the Maui army in order to unite all of the Hawaiian Islands. Capture, in film, the spirituality of the valley as well as the spectacular scenery.

Breathtaking views of cliffs overlooking rugged coastline and white, black, and red sand beaches are staple features of Hana. The humble town and surrounding area are amazing for photography. There are freshwater pools set in black lava, remnants from the nearby Haleakala Volcano, lush jungles and gardens, and ancient temples dotted along the coastline. Take a wide range of photos from horses roaming in the grassy fields, cascading waterfalls, to a replica of a traditional Hawaiian village at the Hana Cultural Center, all in one area. Photograph the sunrise at Haleakala National Park which features the Haleakala Crater, a reminder of a one time active volcano. Rare birds, rolling grasslands, and plunging green valleys create outstanding photo opportunities in this area that has been relatively untouched by man. Practice your action photography at Hookipa Beach Park, one of the best places in the world for windsurfing.

Maui is a tropical oasis that has been able to maintain its rich history and pristine beauty allowing any photographer the opportunity to capture the true essence of the island.