The lure of the lighthouse

Lighthouses are a favorite subject of photographers, and I'm no exception. Even though I've photographed this lighthouse before (click here to see an earlier image), the ever-changing seasons and weather always open up fresh possibilities. Click on the image for a larger view.

West Point Lighthouse, Discovery Park, Seattle
Canon 450D w/Tamron 17-50mm lens@41mm

A uniquely scenic, but little-known place

In a corner of eastern Washington state, spilling over into Idaho, is the wheat-farming area known as the Palouse. This relatively unknown area of rolling hills covers hundreds, if not thousands, of square miles, and is a delight to the photographer. I recently spent a few days there, and the photos below give a taste of what the region is like. Click on the images for a larger view.

Wheat fields and grain elevator, Palouse region, Washington state
Canon 450D w/Canon 400mm lens

Lonely barn, Palouse region, Washington state
Canon 450D w/Canon 400mm lens

Old barn in early morning light, Palouse region, Washington state
Canon 450D w/Canon 70-200mm lens @91mm

Wheat fields, Palouse region of Washington state
Canon 450D w/Canon 70-200mm lens @200mm

Another "secret" vantage point

A less well-known shooting location in Seattle is to be found at the water tower in Volunteer Park. It's a little tricky to shoot through the protective steel grate that covers the openings, but it is possible. Wherever you live, you may also be able to find "secret" locations from which you may obtain compelling, alternate views of commonly photographed sights. Click on the image for a larger version.

Crescent moon over Puget Sound, Seattle, Washington
Canon 450D w/Canon 70-200mm lens @200mm