Kaumana Cave

Kaumana Cave is a lava tube formed by an 1881 Mauna Loa flow, and its dramatic collapsed skylight entrance makes for a compelling natural frame that rewards photographers who take time to work the light. The steep staircase descends into a lush, fern-draped pit where the opening above creates a natural overhead window, so position yourself low and shoot upward to capture the contrast between the bright jungle canopy and the dark volcanic walls surrounding it. Midday is surprisingly useful here since direct overhead sun pushes light down into the pit, but overcast days soften the harsh contrast and bring out the deep greens of the ferns. Bring a wide angle lens, 16 to 24mm, to include both the cave walls and the skylight in a single frame. A headlamp and tripod are essential once you move into the darker tube sections. (Hilo, Hawaii, United States)