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Point Loma Peninsula Neighborhoods

2011/04/14 – 05:24

The hilly peninsula of Point Loma defines the western limit of San Diego Bay, the cities natural harbor. It is the perfect place to soak in the sun. Surrounded by ocean, it never gets too hot or too cold here and the air is always fresh.

On the surface, Point Loma seems to be a good place to hang out, but photographically it does not appear as interesting as other, more publicized areas. However, if you dare to look deeper, you will find this to be one of the best places to capture the essence of Southern California, a mixture of laid-back beach atmosphere and glitzy high tech.

Rugged cliffs, unique views of downtown San Diego, a yacht harbor, a sandy beach, and typical California surfers are among the sights you can expect on Point Loma. Cabrillo National Monument, the peninsula’s most famous landmark, is the subject of a separate article.

San Diego Skyline from Shelter Island

Posted in beach, Coast, Island, San Diego, scenic drive, Skyline, South Coast, Southern California | Tagged , , | Comments (4)

How to photograph Solvang

2011/04/06 – 03:32

Solvang, a Danish town, is located in the fertile Santa Ynez valley, just north of Santa Barbara. The valley receives nearly 300 days of sunshine every year and is home to many fine wineries. The climate could not be more different from the northern European Denmark, yet the city, complete with Danish style studwork houses (bindingsvaerk), windmills and Danish culture feels authentic.

It is fun to explore California’s quaint little Denmark and immerse yourself in a different culture, in a town where time seems to stand still. The stores carry items that you can only find here and the bakeries tempt your senses with the sweetest smells. During Danish Days in September, the town turns into a giant fairground, where the towns’ people celebrate their Scandinavian heritage.

ingeborgs

Posted in Central Coast, landmark, santa barbara county, Southern California | Tagged , , , , | Comments (4)

Cabrillo National Monument – San Diego

2011/03/30 – 03:54

Cabrillo National Monument commemorates the arrival of the first Europeans on the West Coast of the United States of America. Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo led the expedition as a reward for his loyal services in the conquest of Mexico. He died shortly after discovering the Channel Islands from a wound he received in a skirmish with native Indians that became infectious.

Cabrillo National Monument, located at the southern tip of the Point Loma Peninsula, has extraordinary views of the bay, the Naval Base with Airport, military and civilian ships, and even migrating whales. Additionally, you will find historic exhibits, two lighthouses, and even tidepools within the National Monument, making it an ideal family photography destination.

Cabrillo National Monument

Posted in Coast, landmark, lighthouses, Museum, National Monument, San Diego, Skyline, South Coast, Southern California | Tagged , | Comments (2)

Treasure Island Park, Laguna Beach

2011/03/23 – 03:09

Treasure Island Beach ranks among the most iconic of Southern California’s world famous beaches. Located in Laguna Beach, it competes with other classy white sand beaches and is much less crowded than you would expect, considering its turquoise blue water, clean, sand and easy access. This makes it a prime target for beach photography and a favorite for wedding and portrait photographers.

Treasure Island Park, which sits on the cliffs above the beach, is a beautifully landscaped park with benches and overlooks, courtesy of the Montage, a five star resort. The public access park has spectacular views and easy access to the beach below. This would be a perfect location to spend the day and relax, but the sun will wear you out eventually.

Treasue Island Park Sunset

Posted in beach, Coast, Los Angeles, Orange County, park, South Coast, Southern California | Tagged , , , | Comments (3)

Mission San Juan Capistrano

2011/03/16 – 02:10

Mission San Juan Capistrano is my favorite California mission. Its title, “The Jewel of the Missions”, fits the photogenic gardens, beautiful colonnades, and courtyards. The Mission is larger than it appears from the outside. Small alleys give way to courtyards and beautiful gardens with native plants. The tasteful restoration of Mission San Juan Capistrano has preserved the old feeling, giving it a presence and authenticity that other missions lack.

When Father Junipero Serra founded San Juan Capistrano Mission in 1776 for the second time, he resurrected the Mission founded and abandoned one year before. The chapel, built in 1782, is the oldest building still in use in California. The Mission is home to large flocks of swallows that return here for the summer. Every March 19, the city of San Juan Capistrano holds a large street fair with a parade in honor of the swallows.

Mission San Juan Capistrano is a terrific photo destination. Tourists rarely overcrowd the mission, despite its convenient location along I-5 in Orange County. You will find new compositions for hours on end with a chance to learn about the history of California’s settlement. Take an extra day for your trip between L.A. and San Diego to see the Mission, town, and coast.

Colonnade - San Juan Capistrano

Posted in California Missions, flowers, landmark, Los Angeles, Orange County, South Coast | Tagged , , , , | Comments (5)

How to photograph San Pedro

2011/03/02 – 04:03

Labeling San Pedro as Long Beach’s ugly neighbor would be unfair to the busy port city that offers more than a few good photo spots. However, San Pedro is not the first choice of tourists, unless they are heading for one of the cruise ship terminals.

I felt the atmosphere change in the car after we crossed over the Vincent Thomas Bridge from Long Beach into San Pedro. Dani unintentionally became tenser when we drove through some of the economically depressed areas in search for good photo spots. She knows I take my scouting seriously, but I could tell she was wondering why I decided to stop here. Her doubts mounted when I dropped the car in a shady side street, with our belongings in the trunk, to investigate the cruise ship terminals and look for a good place to photograph the bridge. Eventually, we discovered some places that are worth the tour through San Pedro.

Point Fermin, a charming coastal bluffs park, seems to struggle with decay, trash, and overuse in this depressed neighborhood. The Korean Friendship Bell overlooks the city from atop a hill with gorgeous views. These and a view other sights make the trip worthwhile, but the apparent lack of tempting restaurants and hotels inform you clearly to leave before sunset.

China Shipping

Posted in beach, Coast, landmark, lighthouses, Los Angeles, Marine, South Coast, Southern California | Tagged , , | Comments (2)

Mormon Temple, La Jolla

2011/02/23 – 04:32

You cannot miss the Mormon Temple when you drive on I-5 between San Diego and Los Angeles. The white towers ominously rise next to the freeway, luring curious visitors. I have passed this sight many times, wondering about this mysterious building.

On a recent trip, I decided to take the short detour to investigate. We walked around the ground for a few minutes, when a friendly missionary holding a folder approached us. We quickly found out that we could not enter the temple, but he had pictures showing us the intricate details and the lavish decorations of some of the rooms. The man explained some of the details of the Mormon faith and even succeeded in portraying the LDS faith in a positive light, without pushing his belief onto us.

LDS temple christmas

Posted in Coast, Faith, flowers, landmark, San Diego, Southern California | Tagged , , , , | Comments (5)

Shoreline Village, Long Beach

2011/02/16 – 05:26

Shoreline Village is a testament to America’s favorite pastime activities – shopping, snacking, and sailing. The colorful amusement park style shops offer everything you do not need and will buy regardless, things you should not eat but definitely will, and overpriced restaurants that are full no matter the cost. Spending money is easy in the tourist trap that the locals love so much.

The candy colored buildings, seabirds, and views of the natural harbor with the ocean liner Queen Mary make this place a good photo opportunity, as long as you do not leave your loved ones alone with the vacation fund. Look beyond the kitschy façade and you will discover that Shoreline Village has more to offer than ways to spend money. It is a pleasant oasis near a busy harbor. If it were not for the ticking parking meters, I could spend an entire day here relaxing in the warm Southern California sun.

shoreline village

Posted in beach, Coast, landmark, Los Angeles, Marine, South Coast, Southern California | Tagged , , , | Leave a Comment

How to photograph Crystal Cove State Park

2011/02/09 – 04:27

Clinging to the cliffs between lavish Orange County residences and the Coastal Highway, Crystal Cove State Park is a pristine refuge for naturalists and a godsend to photographers. It offers a wide range of outdoor water sports activities, ranging from fishing to diving, surfing, and kite flying. Miles of backcountry trails and several campsites provide a sense of nature and open space that make it easy to forget the proximity to the yachts of Newport Beach and the villas of Laguna Beach.

The weather conditions that attract wealthy Orange County residents to this area make Crystal Cove State Park a year-round pleasant destination. Dramatic Southern California sunsets, rugged cliffs, tidepools, and an unspoiled mountainous backcountry wilderness area will give you a chance to deploy your full creativity on this beautiful landscape and to walk home with fond memories and a full memory (card).

Crystal Cove Sunset

Posted in beach, Coast, hike, Los Angeles, Orange County, South Coast, Southern California, state park, Wildlife | Tagged , | Comments (5)

Crystal Pier, Pacific Beach

2011/02/02 – 05:47

Pacific Beach is a laid-back beach community within the northern city limits of San Diego. Its long beach and boardwalk are a perfect example of Southern California’s beach culture.

I am not a fan of beach photography. Beaches often lack an interesting foreground, are often overcrowded, and generally difficult to photograph. Fortunately, Pacific Beach has an intriguing pier, an active surfing community, and an abundance of characters that should provide you with plenty of things to photograph.

Pacific Beach, or PB, is a place to relax. You will find a diverse restaurant and nightlife scene, resorts, motels, and small B&Bs in close proximity. It is close to Mission Bay, Sea World, and many other San Diego attractions, making it perfect for taking a break and doing as the locals do. Enjoy your time out and take your photographs along the way.

Three Friends at Crystal Pier

Posted in beach, Coast, landmark, San Diego, South Coast, Southern California | Tagged , , , | Comments (2)
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