Strawberry Hill

Why a Wonder: Strawberry Hill, with its diversity of wildlife – seals, sea stars and shore birds – combined with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, is a seascape photographer’s wonderland.

Where: Near mile post 169 on US 101, south of Cape Perpetua on the Oregon Coast.

When: Year round at low tide, so it’s very important to check the tide charts well in advance of your trip.

Photography: Even at low tide, you will need waterproof boots to maximize your photo opportunities – because you want to be able to walk through tide pools to get creative photographs.

Bring a variety of lenses – macro, telephoto, wide-angle and fish-eye – to capture the wildlife and the scenery. The opening photo for this post was taken with a Canon 15mm lens.

Two filters are important: a polarizing filter, which will reduce glare on the water when you are photographing around tide pools; and a neutral density filter, which will let you shoot at slow shutters speeds to create the dreamy water effect.

Also pack a tripod to steady your camera during long exposures. When setting up your tripod in the sand, extend the thin legs first, so you don’t get sand in the joints. Don’t forget a lens cleaning cloth to wipe salt spray off the front element of your lens or your filter.

The weather changes quickly on the Oregon Coast. It can go from sunny to cloudy to rainy and vice versa very quickly. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to bring a camera cover, a waterproof backpack cover, as well as rain gear.

And remember: You can still get nice photographs on overcast days, due to the low contrast.

Finally, as with all coastal locations, be aware of “sneaker waves,” which can sneak up on you and knock you over . . . or drag you out to see. Remember: Never turn your back on the sea.

Learn more: Check out The Oregon Coast Photo Road Trip book.

© Rick and Susan Sammon

This post sponsored by Benro.