Hilo Photographer

Sterling Batson is a Hilo photographer based out of a studio at 166 Kamehameha Ave in downtown Hilo, serving the Hilo side of the Big Island for portrait, family, maternity, and wedding sessions — shot digitally for a quick turnaround or on medium format film for a timeless, analog look.

Couple posing on a street in downtown Hilo, couples photographer in Hilo Hawaii
Couple embracing in a stream with a flower crown maternity gown, photographer in Hilo Hawaii
Couple standing on a black lava field under an overcast sky, photographer in Hilo Hawaii

Sessions Offered in Hilo

Every package below reflects the Hilo studio rate — the same sessions run higher for clients booking in Kona.

  • Families & Couples — relaxed, natural portraits at the studio, downtown Hilo, or your favorite outdoor spot. Starting at $395.
  • Headshots & Solo Portraits — a polished look for LinkedIn, your website, or a personal brand shoot. Starting at $295 (studio sessions +$75/hr).
  • Weddings & Elopement — coverage from 1 to 8 hours, priced by the hour. Starting at $750 for 1 hour.
  • Analog Film Shoot — medium format film, professionally scanned, for rich color and natural grain. Starting at $395 (studio sessions +$75/hr).
  • Maternity, Senior & Creative — maternity, senior portraits, fashion and model work. Starting at $395.

See the full pricing page for details, or request a custom quote.

Why Book a Hilo Session

With over 10 years behind the lens — shooting in NYC before settling on the Big Island in 2018 — Sterling works out of a home studio in downtown Hilo, with easy access to black sand beaches, lava fields, and lush rainforest for outdoor sessions. Most sessions are shot digitally for a fast turnaround; for clients who want something different, sessions can also be shot on a Mamiya RZ67 medium format film camera.

“He communicated clearly, chose an amazing setting for our family photos, and captured authentic moments. He was very adaptable to working with our toddler.”

— Joshua McDowell, Google review (5.0 from 12 Google reviews)

Also Serving Kona

Based on the west side and looking for a session closer to Kona? See the Kona photographer page for Kona-Kohala coast session details.

Book Your Hilo Session

Ready to book, or have questions about timing and locations in Hilo? Get in touch — Sterling is based in Hilo and travels for most projects across the Big Island.