Chasing Light During a Southern Oregon Coast Photography/California Redwoods Photography Workshop.
I love Oregon. I’ve lived here my entire life and have spent countless hours exploring its wild places. One of my favorite regions is the Southern Oregon Coast, especially the stretch between Yachats and the California border. From iconic landmarks like Thor’s Well to the towering California redwoods, this coast is a dream for landscape photographers. Here are some photos from our Oregon Coast Photography Workshop
Partnering with Chris Byrne for Amazing Photography Workshops
I’m fortunate to partner with my good friend and fellow photographer Chris Byrne of Destination Earth Photography Tours. Each spring, we lead a group of passionate photographers through the rugged coastline and redwood forests during our Southern Oregon Coast Photography Workshop.
This trip is one of my favorites every year. It’s not just about the photos—it’s about helping others connect with nature, hone their craft, and fulfill creative goals through photography.
Oregon Coast Photography Workshop From Thor’s Well to Bandon Beach
We start our journey at Thor’s Well, where ocean surges create dynamic, moody images that challenge photographers in the best way. From there, we head south to Bandon Beach—one of my absolute favorite places to photograph.
Bandon is littered with spectacular sea stacks, including the famous Howling Dog and Wizard’s Hat. We photograph both sunset and sunrise, taking advantage of the shifting light and tides to capture powerful compositions.
Exploring the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor
After Bandon, we make our way toward Brookings—home to one of the most photogenic coastlines in the Pacific Northwest. The Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is filled with iconic spots like Secret Beach and Natural Bridges.
We remain flexible during the Oregon Coast Workshop, adjusting our plan based on conditions to give everyone the best chance at stunning photos. Whether it’s a dramatic coastline or soft light through coastal fog, we make the most of every opportunity.
Into the Heart of the California Redwoods
Another highlight of our trip is the time we spend exploring the majestic California redwoods. Brookings is just a short drive from Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, where ancient trees reach skyward through misty light.
Photographing in the redwoods is a unique experience. I love bringing someone there for the first time and watching their reaction. The trees command awe, and the peace of the forest is something you can feel as much as you can see.
Tips for Photographing the Redwoods
Capturing the redwoods requires versatility. I typically use a 24-70mm lens, but an ultra-wide can add drama to your compositions. A macro lens is great for detail shots, and a 70-200mm helps isolate shapes and light within the canopy.
We always hope for fog, rhododendron blooms, and, if we’re lucky, sunbeams piercing the trees. Over the past two years, we’ve had incredible luck with these conditions—when fog from the west meets sunrise from the east, it creates magic.
The Magic of Light in the Redwoods
There’s something unforgettable about standing in a redwood grove as sunlight filters through ocean mist, creating beams of light that dance between the trees. Whether it’s someone’s first time or their tenth, it never gets old.
These experiences—on the coast and in the forest—are why we do what we do. Chris and I are honored to guide others into these beautiful places and watch them discover the power of light, land, and photography.
Join Us At a Oregon Coast Photography Workshop
If you’re ready to explore this iconic region with us, keep an eye out for upcoming photography workshop dates on my website. We’d love to have you join the adventure.
Please contact me if you have any interest in joining us. We’d love to be your guides. Click for more information about our workshops. https://www.destinationearthphototours.com/
