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Do you ever wonder where to find awesome locations for photos? As a photographer, that is part of my job! Couples often ask for location suggestions so here are my top 20 favorites. I'm even going to break these down into various areas around the state of Oregon.
Let's start out west at the coast:
1. Heceta Beach/Heceta Head Lighthouse - a scenic coastal spot known for its historic lighthouse, cliffs, sandy shore, easy walking trails, beautiful bridge and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
2. Shore Acres - a stunning coastal park known for its dramatic cliffs, beautiful gardens, and panoramic ocean views, offering a serene and beautiful escape for nature lovers and photographers.
3. Sunset Beach - just a few minutes away from Shore Acres; a serene coastal paradise with golden sands, crashing waves, breathtaking sunsets, and a peaceful ambiance that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and tranquility.
4. Yaquina Head Lighthouse - a majestic coastal beacon, perched atop cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, offering breathtaking views and a rich maritime history. In the spring it is surrounded by beautiful flowers and has a rocky beach just below.
5. Fogarty Creek Beach - a scenic coastal gem with stunning rock formations, tide pools, sandy shores, and a gentle creek flowing into the ocean.
6. Bastendorf Beach - coastal gem featuring rugged cliffs/rock formations, expansive sandy shores, tide pools, and breathtaking ocean views, perfect for nature lovers and beachcombers alike.
Moving east to Eugene:
7. Dorris Ranch - a scenic historic site featuring a working filbert (hazelnut) orchard, walking trails, and educational exhibits, providing a glimpse into the region's agricultural heritage and natural beauty.
8. Mt. Pisgah - natural area with a stunning summit offering panoramic views, diverse hiking trails, abundant flora and fauna, and a beautiful arboretum.
North of Eugene in the Corvallis area:
9. Fitton Green - a gorgeous nature reserve in Oregon. It features scenic trails, lush forests, and beautiful meadows, providing a serene and tranquil environment for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
10. Mary's Peak - the highest point in Oregon's Coast Range, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. It is a popular destination for hiking and nature enthusiasts, showcasing diverse flora and fauna.
Continuing north in Portland metro:
11. Latourell Falls - a picturesque waterfall located in the Columbia River Gorge. It features a single drop of 249 feet, surrounded by lush greenery and basalt cliffs.
12. Trillium Lake - a serene alpine lake nestled at the base of Mount Hood. It offers stunning views, calm waters, and opportunities for camping, fishing, hiking, and photography.
13. McMennamins Edgefield - a historic brick hotel and entertainment complex with lush gardens, multiple restaurants and bars, a brewery, a vineyard, live music, and a movie theater.
14. McMennamins Cornelius Pass -a historic farmstead turned vibrant destination in Oregon, offering breweries, restaurants, event venues, gardens, live music, and a unique blend of rustic charm and modern amenities.
15.Rood Bridge Park - a scenic outdoor destination with lush green spaces, a charming bridge, playgrounds, picnic areas, sports facilities, and serene walking trails along the Tualatin River.
Moving east to Bend:
16. Smith Rock - a breathtaking natural wonder. It features towering cliffs, scenic trails, and the Crooked River, making it a popular destination for rock climbing, hiking, and photography.
17. Drake Park - a diverse riverside park with lush green spaces, meandering trails, charming bridges, a tranquil pond, and a popular venue for community events.
18. Shevlin Park - a natural haven with scenic trails, a sparkling creek, dense forests, and ample recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
19. Benham Falls - a stunning natural wonder known for its powerful cascades, stunning surroundings, and the mesmerizing play of water over volcanic rock formations.
20. Sahalie Falls - a breathtaking natural wonder featuring a powerful waterfall cascading over moss-covered rocks amidst lush greenery and providing a picturesque hiking destination.
I am always open to trying new places too! What locations do you think should be added to this list? Message me at hello@stephaniefordproductions.com