Friday, July 26, 2013

San Juan Island Photography and Photo Tour


This week my 12-year-old son Leo and I spent about 24 hours on San Juan Island, scouting great photography locations and staying with my high school girlfriend, Vicki.

The last weekend in September, I'll be leading about 9 photographers around the island to capture the light and landscape of this fabulous island.

After dinner we hit the road to find the best sunset view. We started at Roche Harbor, then followed the west side, stopping at vantage points and meeting islanders along the way. They love their island! We planned to catch the sunset somewhere around American Camp, but were distracted by the overly-friendly foxes, Gimpy and Shady. Then we rounded the bend and nearly drove into the monster moon! Here is where I regretted forgetting my tripod. Ah well.

The next morning I planned to photograph the sunrise, but alas, I set my alarm for sunrise, not earlier! I still managed to enjoy morning light, which is extremely rare in my case.

Later, Leo and I hiked up Young Hill, the island high spot. Great view, but abysmal midday light. We toured English Camp, which is more interesting in terms of buildings than American Camp, but I have long preferred the sweeping windswept vista at American Camp. We also checked out San Juan Vineyards - they'll let us into the vineyard early to get the best light, though my students and I may be back later for the wine tasting.

We wrapped up the day with another quick trip to American Camp, hoping to find rabbits but only found foxes. Hmmm. Then on to the ferry and home. I'm so glad I'll be back soon!

Photos: Madrona - I love the colors of the tree and the sea; Beach at American Camp, after sunset; our two fox friends; Dusk at Cattle Point; Moonrise over Mt. Baker; Thistle in morning light; Morning view from American Camp; Garden at English Camp.

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