Welcome to the beautiful state of Oregon, where every bend and turn in the road uncovers another jaw-dropping vista! In this guide, you’ll find straightforward advice on capturing the most Instagrammable spots. So, get those camera batteries charged and let’s embark on this photographic journey uniquely designed for both the seasoned and budding photography enthusiast!
Unravelling Oregon’s picture-perfect North Coast
Beginning with the charming North Coast, one could easily lose track of time exploring the majestic Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach. Remember to watch for the tide times, as the tide pools around the base reveal wonderful sea life at low tide. The late afternoon light accentuates the rock’s craggy face and adds an ethereal quality to shots. Nearby, the arched Sea Stacks in Bandon usually give great sunsets, but a word of caution – the coastal weather changes quickly, so always keep an extra sweater and raincoat handy.
Capture the Magic of Tillamook and Astoria
While in the north, take time to wind through the Three Capes Scenic Route and Tillamook Creamery. The dairy farm’s lush green fields and cows make for a captivating pastoral image. Next, a historic pit stop at Astoria capturing the quaint Victorian homes and fishing boats is a must. Locals know that early morning shots bear witness to the lovely marine layer rolling over the Astoria-Megler Bridge.
The Quintessential Oregon – Crater Lake and Multnomah Falls
Moving eastward, the incredibly breathtaking Crater Lake National Park awaits. June through September offers the best weather, but those willing to brave the chill of late fall or early spring will catch Crater Lake draped in magnificent snow blankets. Be sure to swing by the iconic Multnomah Falls en route. The falls are lovely year-round, but they’re positively magical when iced over in the winter!
Benton County’s Hidden Gems
Adventuring southwards, Benton County offers two hidden gems. The wooden covered Irish Bend Bridge, located off the beaten track on the Oregon State University campus, poses beautifully year-round. Nearby, Marys Peak provides panoramic views of the Cascades and Coastal mountain ranges, best captured at sunrise or sunset.
Explore the Instagrammable trails at Bend, Central Oregon
Not too far east, Bend boasts a multitude of crisp, clear lakes reflecting the stunning Central Oregon landscape. Moderate adventurers should head for the Tumalo Falls trail and early risers for Sparks Lake, where dawn brings an iridescent play of light across the water, creating mirror-like images of South Sister and Broken Top Mountains.
Pioneering through the Wild West – Eastern Oregon
In contrast to the lush landscapes of western Oregon, the vast, arid expanses of Eastern Oregon have their own stark beauty. The Painted Hills in John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, where layers of geological history create a vivid color pallet, are best photographed at sunset when soft light brings out the reds and oranges.
Blazing the Downtown and Street Art Prairie – Portland
Finally, no guide would be complete without a nod towards Oregon’s largest city. Portland offers numerous Instagram-worthy mural arts best seen along Alberta and Mississippi Avenue, perfect for striking personalized shots. Also, the top of Pittock Mansion rewards with sweeping views of the city’s skyline against the expansive backdrop of Mt. Hood.
Some loving advice
Oregon’s Instagram-worthy spots are seemingly never-ending! The more one explores, the more secrets the Beaver State reveals. From hidden waterfalls in the Cascadia to the sparsely traveled Alvord Desert, each turn uncovers more scenic beauty.
Remember, Oregonians are proud of their natural bounty, and practice ‘leave no trace’ principles to conserve it. Keep that in mind capturing the beautiful surroundings – it’s all about respect and conservation. With this guide in hand, let the stunning landscapes be the star of those Instagram feeds, and don’t forget to tag these places, as your stunning photos might just inspire the next wave of Oregon adventurers. Happy clicking!