About Michael Darden

On the Big Island of Hawaii and throughout the state, Michael Darden Photography specializes in commercial, advertising, editorial, sports, wedding and portrait photography and videography/cinematography.

Darden has numerous editorial, news and sports photography awards to his credit throughout his more than 35 year career. Most recently 2016 Best of Hawaii – West / Best Photographer.

Darden’s editorial photography has been published by leading print and digital news organizations and magazines worldwide. His photography and videography work has been featured predominantly by numerous companies and corporations.

“My father and grandfather were both advanced amateur photographers who hand developed color and black & white film and printed pictures in their own little makeshift darkrooms.”

“At age 8, I got my first box camera but my photographic career began in earnest in San Diego, CA. as the photo editor for my high school newspaper in the mid 1970’s. Then as a U.S. Navy photographer I continued to develop my passion and photographic skills before leaving the military with an Honorable Discharge. With 7 years of military service under my belt I pursued a photojournalism career, accumulating 17 years of daily newspaper photography experience while covering many major news, professional sporting events – including NFL football, Major League Baseball, NBA basketball, NHL hockey, professional golf, professional motocross and the Big Island’s Ironman Triathlon World Championship.

Darden is widely considered by his peers to be one of the most proficient and versatile photographer / videographers in the state.

The scope of his work ranges from high end architectural and advertising photography and videography to portrait, wedding, landscape and aerial drone photography and videography.

With Hawaiian roots that extend for generations, Kailua Kona Hawaii has been home for nearly 30 years.

Michael Darden specializes in Commercial, Advertising, Sports, Wedding, Portrait Photography & Video.

What My Clients Say

As marketing communications director for Hilton Waikoloa Village, I had the distinct privilege of working with Mike on numerous photography projects to help showcase the resort. Given the diversity of the types of images, from scenic to rooms and suites to restaurants to culinary, Mike’s professionalism, extensive experience, and flexible schedule proved to be invaluable in building the resort image library. Not to mention, Mike’s photography work in capturing marine life is another excellent example of his creative talent. It’s been a pleasure to partner with Mike over the years!
Leanne Pletcher
Director of Public Relations & Marketing Maui Visitors Bureau
“I have worked with Michael for more than 20 years; first at Hilton Waikoloa Village, then with a variety of clients I represented when at Current Events [public relations agency], and most recently during my tenure at Mauna Kea Resort. Over that time the array of photography I have requested has ranged from sporting events to food shots, gala affairs to executives’ headshots, interior photos to grand opening blessings. Mike comes early, prepared, and open to whatever the shoot may bring”.


Vicky Kometani
PR Executive
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Mike is available.

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