Daniel Sullivan has been a Maui-based photographer for over 20 years, known for his ability to capture both the wild power of Hawaii’s landscapes and the delicate beauty of its oceans. While his early work focused on aerial, big wave, and cultural photography, his recent passion has taken him beneath the surface—using Ikelite housings to explore the vibrant underwater world of Hawaii’s coral reefs and marine life.
The Eclipse, Honolua Bay Maui © Daniel Sullivan
His award-winning film Koholā documented the epic migration of humpback whales through Hawaiian waters and received the Award of Excellence at the Nature Without Borders International Film Festival. Building on that success, Daniel is currently directing Coral Guardians, a new documentary about Maui’s coral reefs and the community efforts to protect and restore them. Shot entirely in 4K with Nikon cameras and Ikelite housings, the film combines science, culture, and stunning underwater cinematography to tell the story of reefs under threat and those fighting to save them.
Crystal Ball - Maui's Honolua Bay during the COVID shutdown with 100% clarity. © Daniel Sullivan
Daniel’s photography has been featured by Discovery, The National Geographic Channel, Outside Magazine, and Green Planet with David Attenborough. His fine art books—including Tribes of the Omo Valley (2008), The Maui Coast – Legacy of the King’s Highway (2016), and Maui Mauka to Makai (2022)—reflect his dedication to storytelling through imagery, whether documenting remote cultures, volcanic mountains, or fragile underwater ecosystems.
Maui's coral gardens. © Daniel Sullivan
In addition to his personal projects, Daniel has worked with clients such as Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, Olukai, and Marriott. He also teaches workshops, mentors emerging photographers, and shares his knowledge of both land and underwater photography.
The two year anniversary Paddle Out to remember the Lahaina fire victims. © Daniel Sullivan
The flower drop at the Lahaina Paddle Out, shot from below. © Daniel Sullivan
From documenting Lahaina’s recovery after the wildfires for his forthcoming book Lahaina Rising, to diving deep into Maui’s reefs, Daniel’s work is a testament to his love for the Hawaiian Islands and his mission to preserve their natural and cultural heritage through the lens.
Lahaina's Cathedrals Dive. Two vertical lava tubes. © Daniel Sullivan
Returning rehabilitated coral to the reef on Maui after being grown at the Maui Ocean Center. © Daniel Sullivan
Humpback whales in the Pacific off the coast of Maui. © Daniel Sullivan
Additional Viewing
Shark's Cove: Cave Diving Oahu, Hawaii
Turtle Photography Underwater Camera Settings
Nikon Z8 Underwater 4K Results [VIDEO]
Sea Turtle Eating Coral in Grand Cayman // Sony a7C II Underwater [VIDEO]
Daniel Sullivan is a Maui-based photographer who's been published with Discovery, Nat Geo Channel, Outside Magazine, and Green Planet with David Attenborough. He's an author of three fine art books with a forthcoming book on the horizon. His award-winning film Koholā is currently making the rounds at film festivals and will be available to view on YouTube soon. Daniel shoots underwater with the Nikon Z8 inside an Ikelite Underwater Housing. See more of his work on Instagram @danielsullivanphotography or visit his website to learn more.
