There’s something profoundly moving about stepping onto the USS Arizona Memorial. As the launch boat glides across the quiet waters of Pearl Harbor, you begin to feel the gravity of what this place represents. It’s more than a tourist destination—it’s sacred ground, and for many, the camera becomes a tool to honor and remember.
Taking photos at the memorial isn’t just about getting the perfect shot. It’s about capturing emotion, honoring sacrifice, and preserving a powerful story. Whether you’re an amateur with a smartphone or a seasoned photographer with a camera bag in tow, photographing the USS Arizona is a chance to connect to history in a deeply personal way.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about taking respectful, beautiful, and meaningful photos at the USS Arizona Memorial. From the best times of day to visit, to the top vantage points, to understanding what’s allowed and what’s not—we’ve got you covered. What’s more, we’ll share tips on how to share and preserve those images in a way that reflects the dignity and importance of this iconic site.
The History Behind the Lens: USS Arizona Memorial at a Glance
Long before it became a must-see stop for visitors to Oahu, the USS Arizona was a proud battleship, launched in 1915. On December 7, 1941, during the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, the ship was bombed, killing 1,177 crewmen and marking one of the darkest days in U.S. history. The sunken battleship remains entombed beneath the waters of Pearl Harbor, serving as both a final resting place and a powerful symbol of resilience.
The USS Arizona Memorial was dedicated in 1962 and stands directly above the sunken hull. It doesn’t touch the wreckage below—out of respect. Visitors come from around the world not only to learn but to reflect. Every white column, every name etched into the memorial’s marble wall tells a story. And when you raise your camera, you’re helping share that story in a way that words alone can’t always express.
Knowing this history matters to photographers. It shapes the way they frame their shots, choose their angles, and decide what moments are worth capturing.
Know Before You Go: Photography Rules and Etiquette at Pearl Harbor
Before clicking the shutter, it’s essential to understand what’s acceptable at this National Park Service site. While photography is allowed at the memorial, it comes with some clear guidelines—many rooted in respect for the fallen and the significance of the site.
Tripods and monopods are not permitted on the memorial itself, keeping the space open and ensuring visitors can move freely. Handheld cameras, including smartphones and DSLRs, are fine. Drones are strictly prohibited anywhere on the grounds of safety and privacy.
Flash photography is discouraged, especially inside the memorial. Not only can it distract other visitors, but it can also interfere with the subdued and reflective environment.
Most importantly, be conscious of your surroundings. Refrain from loud conversations or attempting stylized poses. This isn’t the place for selfies or group shots with peace signs. People are here to grieve, reflect, and honor loved ones. Let your camera be a silent observer, not the center of attention.
The Best Times of Day for USS Arizona Memorial Photos
Lighting can dramatically change the mood of your photos, and timing your visit well can make all the difference. Early morning, just after the first boats start heading out to the memorial, often provides the most flattering natural light. The water is usually calmer, and the sun’s angle creates gentle highlights across the white architecture of the memorial.
Late morning into midday offers the clearest underwater visibility, which is helpful if you’re hoping to capture the outline of the sunken battleship through the water. The light can be more direct, but you can still take beautiful images with the right settings or filters.
Just before sunset, Golden hour brings a warm glow to the site. The low light casts long shadows and can be used to dramatic effect, especially if you’re photographing the American flag or catching reflections on the water.
Oahu’s weather can be unpredictable, so seasonal patterns should also be considered. Winter tends to bring larger crowds and the possibility of overcast skies, while summer mornings often start sunny and still.
Most Iconic Photo Angles and Perspectives
The journey to the memorial itself offers several key opportunities for memorable photos. As the launch boat approaches, try capturing the memorial from a distance, centered on the water, with the harbor stretching behind it. This wide-angle shot is a favorite because it sets the scene and introduces the memorial in its natural context.
Once inside the memorial, a powerful shot is the marble wall at the far end, which lists the names of all those lost on the USS Arizona. Frame this wall with natural light from the side windows, and consider capturing a few images of people quietly paying their respects—it adds depth and humanity to the shot.
Looking down into the water, you’ll often see the ship’s outline below. Some days, oil still leaks from the wreckage—a sight usually called “the tears of the Arizona.” A photo of the oil shimmering on the surface adds a poignant layer of meaning.
Architectural features like the flowing, wave-inspired roof offer great composition tools. Try shooting through the open windows toward the sky or flagpole, using the lines of the structure to draw the viewer’s eye into the frame.
Respectful Storytelling Through Photography
Photos can be beautiful, but they can also carry emotional weight. As you photograph the USS Arizona Memorial, think about what story you want your images to tell. A wide shot of the harbor says something different than a close-up of a single name on the memorial wall.
Avoid over-staging or inserting yourself too frequently into the narrative. Let the site speak for itself. If you include people in your photos, aim to capture them candidly from a respectful distance, perhaps with their heads bowed or standing in quiet reflection. This conveys a more honest and powerful story.
Rather than snapping dozens of quick shots, slow down. Take a breath before each photo. Let the emotion of the place guide you. You’re not just documenting a visit—you’re preserving a memory that deserves care and respect.
Pearl Harbor Beyond the Arizona: Other Powerful Photo Spots
While the USS Arizona Memorial is the centerpiece, Pearl Harbor has other historic sites that offer equally meaningful photo opportunities. The USS Missouri, moored nearby, is where the Japanese officially surrendered in 1945, ending World War II. Its decks, cannons, and interiors are striking in scale and symbolism.
The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, located on Ford Island, houses historic aircraft and exhibits that give insight into the Pacific theater of the war. Photographers can capture restored planes against dramatic hangars and runways, many of which still bear the scars of the 1941 attack.
Don’t miss the USS Bowfin Submarine and its adjacent museum. This “Pearl Harbor Avenger” makes for bold images, especially when framed from the dock with the water glistening in the background.
Even the visitor center offers compelling visuals: flags at half-mast, plaques with survivor quotes, and memorial views from across the harbor. Take time to walk the grounds slowly—sometimes the most moving images aren’t in the obvious places.
Tips for Taking Meaningful, High-Quality Photos
You don’t need to be a pro to take impactful photos at the USS Arizona Memorial. A few practical tips can help you make the most of the moment, whether working with a smartphone or a DSLR.
If you’re using a phone, clean the lens, disable the flash, and adjust exposure manually. Use the grid function to help with composition, and try capturing images in HDR mode when shooting against the bright sky.
For cameras with interchangeable lenses, a wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the whole span of the memorial and harbor. A medium zoom lens can help you get detailed shots from a respectful distance without intruding.
Natural light is your best friend, so skip the filters and avoid heavy edits. Keep ISO as low as possible to reduce grain. Set a mid-range aperture (f/5.6–f/8) to ensure sharpness, especially for wide shots.
Editing can enhance your photos without overdoing them. Keep tones soft, preserve the whites of the memorial, and avoid over-saturation. The goal is to share something real, not manufactured.
Sharing and Preserving Your Pearl Harbor Photos
Once you’ve captured these images, take a moment to decide how and where to share them. Albums or private photo books can be thoughtful gifts or keepsakes. For public sharing—like on social media—pair your images with captions that provide context and reflect the site’s significance.
Avoid hashtags or captions that lean too casual or jokey. Instead, focus on history, remembrance, and gratitude. If you’re part of veteran groups or historical communities, consider contributing your photos to help preserve the collective memory.
Some organizations accept photo submissions for archives or public displays. These images, taken thoughtfully, can serve a purpose far beyond your own photo reel.
Remembering Through the Lens
The USS Arizona Memorial isn’t just a photo-op—it’s a place where history and memory live. When you visit with a camera, you’re stepping into a space that demands presence and care.
Let your photos tell a quiet story. Let them speak of sacrifice, silence, and our deep connection to those we’ve never met. With every respectful shot, you’re helping keep that story alive.
So take your time, look twice, breathe it in, and press that shutter not just to capture what you see but also to hold onto what you feel.
