Better Together

Sea kayaking along the Na Pali Coast, Island of Kauai, Hawaii (Russ Bishop/Russ Bishop Photography)

Jack Johnson’s well-known line sums it up nicely when it comes to many things and especially outdoor photography. It’s wonderful to visit and photograph beautiful locations, to have a permanent (or so we hope) record of our experience long after the trip is over, but an added plus is always being able to savor those moments with someone else.

A recent exchange online got me thinking about all the benefits of sharing your photographic adventures with a friend or partner. Beyond the obvious pleasure of simply enjoying a tropical sunset together or wandering down a forest trail and savoring the smell of wet pines after a storm, there’s another big perk – perspective. Having someone in your landscape images can often add a unique visual element that gives the viewer a sense of place, and with action shots the benefit of being able to give direction (although utmost care is needed here) can make for much more compelling imagery.

In this image, my wife Maureen and I are just starting off on a 16 mile journey down the Na Pali coast of Kauai. Shooting this close to the water is always risky business, but I managed to keep my equipment dry with the careful use of a dry bag while my partner helped line up the perfect shots. So the next time you’re heading out to shoot bring a friend, and don’t forget to let them get in on the action.

©Russ Bishop/All Rights Reserved

McWay Cove Big Sur

McWay Cove and Waterfall, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Big Sur Coast, California
McWay Cove and Waterfall, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Big Sur Coast, California

McWay Cove in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park on the Big Sur Coast is one of the highlights of any trip down California’s Highway 1. The turquoise waters of this secluded lagoon combined with one of the only free falling waterfalls on the Pacific Coast make for a breathtaking scene.

The cove, which is part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, is hidden from the highway but a short trail from the state park leads to spectacular views of the falls and surrounding coastline.

 

©Russ Bishop/All Rights Reserved