America’s Most Picturesque Places
There’s nothing like a good, old-fashioned road trip to remind us of the majesty and physical wonder of this country we call home. America truly is beautiful! From soaring mountains to wind-swept coastlines, a drive across the state or country is sure to inspire patriotism in anyone. Regardless of your skill as a photographer, it will also inspire your desire to take some amazing landscape pictures. So grab the kids, a cooler full of sandwiches and your digital camera, and head out to some of America’s most picturesque sites.
Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, CA
Rising high above the salty waters of San Francisco Bay and spanning nearly 2 miles, the Golden Gate Bridge is photographed by millions of visitors each year. The bridge is synonymous with the City by the Bay and beloved by tourists and locals alike. You can take photographs of the Golden Gate Bridge from many vantage points throughout the city, but a quick drive or bus ride to the visitor’s center provides some of the most awe-inspiring views, as well as interesting information about the bridge’s history. The Golden Gate Bridge also has a walking path where you can not only take up-close photos of the bridge but of the scenic bay below. Choose a clear day for this photography excursion. The bay fog can last for hours and obscure much of the view.
Gateway Arch, St. Louis, Missouri
Officially named the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, this soaring, arch-shaped monument is known as the Gateway Arch because it was erected to honor St. Louis as the “gateway to the American West.” Visitors can ride to the top of the shining arch in an enclosed tram and snap some amazing photos of the 630-foot-high, breathtaking view. The less adventurous will enjoy photographing the sleek, modern arch while keeping both feet on
The Wave, Coyote Buttes, AZ
Photographers of all skill levels will love the play of light and shadow that highlights the curving rock formation in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Plan ahead for a trip to The Wave; permits are required and only 20 people are allowed to visit the fragile formation each day. The Wave is described as a cresting wave frozen in stone. Over 190 million years old, the Jurassic-age sandstone of the wave was carved by wind over many centuries. Hikers willing to make the three-mile trek will be rewarded with a memorable experience and photos of an American site few people get to see. Avoid traveling to The Wave in the summer if you don’t enjoy 100-degree temperatures. “From sea to shining sea” is more than just a lyric. America is a land of natural and manmade beauty, and there’s something special to see in every one of her 50 states. Don’t be shy about taking pictures, no matter what your experience is. With today’s convenient photography equipment, everyone can take memorable photos of their great American discoveries.
Niagara Falls, Niagara Falls, NY
Niagara Falls is one of the most iconic locations in the U.S. The horseshoe-shaped phenomenon is actually three different falls that straddle the U.S.-Canada border in Ontario: Horseshoe Falls, Bridal Falls, and American Falls. More than 750,000 gallons of water rush over a 167-foot drop every second, making the site one of the most spectacular in the world. A 30-minute tour on the Maid of Mist ferry line is one of the best ways to snap photos of the falls. The ferry docks in the U.S. and in Canada, providing visitors with multiple views.
