Bend, Oregon, nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, is a photographer's paradise. With its diverse landscapes ranging from rugged mountains to serene rivers, Bend offers endless opportunities to capture breathtaking moments wherever you turn. Whether you're a seasoned pro or an amateur enthusiast, here are my top five favorite places to shoot photography in Bend:
Smith Rock State Park: Known as the birthplace of American sport climbing, Smith Rock State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers. Towering cliffs, winding rivers, and expansive vistas create a dramatic backdrop for any photo shoot. Whether you're capturing rock climbers scaling the iconic walls or the golden hues of sunset reflecting off the Crooked River, Smith Rock offers endless possibilities for stunning shots. Smith Rock during golden hour is ideal.
Shevlin Park: Tucked away just minutes from downtown Bend, Shevlin Park is a hidden gem for nature photographers. I love Shevlin Park because it allows you to capture both the forest and meadow- bringing you two separate backdrops in one easy location. The park is huge, too, so there's a lot to explore.
Dillon Falls: Situated along the Deschutes River, Dillon Falls is a must-visit destination for landscape photographers. Dillon Falls is my favorite in the Fall. The water, the meadow, and the beautiful trees create an ideal backdrop for your photo shoot.
Deschutes River: Flowing through the heart of Bend, the Deschutes River is a staple in Central Oregon. Whether you're exploring the stretches of water near the Old Mill District or venturing into the wilder sections upstream, the Deschutes River offers a lot of opportunities to capture Central Oregon's waterways. This is a great location for local families who don't have a lot of time to travel outside of the hear of Bend, Oregon if you are hosting a family photography session.
Mt. Bachelor: This is by far the most iconic of all of the locations- but more of a destination to get to. If you have the time, use it- Mt. Bachelor is stunning year round. Be sure to check the local roads to ensure they are open if traveling to Mt. Bachelor during the winter. You really can't go wrong with Mt. Bachelor as your backdrop.
Photography in Bend, Oregon takes everything to a new level since there is so much to offer. Whether you're drawn to rugged mountains, serene rivers, or lush forests, Bend has something for photographers of all skill levels. So grab your camera and get out there!
Nancy Brye Photography is a wedding, family, and newborn photographer based in Bend, Oregon.
Comments