A Childhood Behind the Zoo
Remember the magic of visiting the zoo as a kid? The thrill of hearing a lion’s quaking roar, or watching monkeys swing from vine to vine, and imagining what it would be like to walk among them? For one local photographer, that childhood fascination never faded — today, Rod Kuba captures those same exhibits through his lens as the Honolulu Zoo’s official photographer. Sketching animals and snapping photos with his first camera, he spent countless hours exploring the Zoo as a child. Those playful days of curiosity laid the foundation for a lifelong connection with wildlife.
From Photography Hobby to Lifelong Passion in Hawaii
Photography stayed with Rod through life’s changes. Military service took him far from home, but it also reinforced the importance of preserving memories. Sending photos back to family became a way to stay connected. Later, digital photography gave him the creative freedom he hadn’t experienced with film. Nature photography became an escape — a chance to slow down and focus on the beauty around him.
An Unexpected Appointment
Years later, a single day at the Honolulu Zoo would change everything. When three lion cubs made their public debut, Rod captured every moment on film. The next day, he noticed a visitor who had come specifically to see the cubs — and was leaving disappointed.
With prints from the previous day in hand, he offered one to the man. Seeing the visitor’s eyes fill with tears, he felt the impact of his work — and caught the attention of the Zoo Director. Soon after, Rod was appointed the official photographer for the Zoo, with his images featured on signs, announcements, and even in auctions.
Eye-to-Eye Moments with Honolulu Zoo Wildlife
His approach is simple: walk the public viewing areas and connect with the animals through the lens. Some of his favorite captures include a lion cub resting its chin on a log and a baby lemur now featured in a National Geographic children’s book. Each photo reflects a moment of genuine connection.
Metal Prints: Preserving a Legacy
Over time, Rod switched from paper to metal prints, seeking longevity and vibrancy. Metal prints resist fading and don’t require glass, letting the colors and details shine on their own. Seeing his work printed — whether in his “treehouse” gallery or at the Zoo — offers a sense of lasting impact. His photos aren’t just digital memories; they’re tangible impressions for family and the community.
Capturing Hawai‘i, One Frame at a Time
For him, photography is more than art — it’s a way to preserve moments, connect people with nature, and leave a legacy. Each click of the shutter, each printed image, tells a story that will endure. With Pictures Plus metal prints, these moments don’t just live on screens; they live in homes, galleries, and hearts across Hawai‘i.
