Click here for a larger view Photo and narrative by Winston “Rocky” Rockwell.
Those fortunate enough to be able to visit the Oregon coast are no doubt familiar with Cannon Beach, just south of the mouth of the Columbia River. With its famous Haystack Rock, and a broad expanse of smooth sandy beach, it’s a popular tourist spot, as well as being popular with photographers.
I had a chance to visit there recently – the weather forecast called for mostly sunny skies, and I thought I’d make the 5-hour drive to see if I could get some pictures. I got there in plenty of time, so I spent a while photographing the beach and surrounding area from Ecola State Park, which offers a spectacular, panoramic view of this entire stretch of coastline. As the sun got lower in the sky, I headed for the beach to await the sunset.
For an hour or so before sundown, the sky was almost completely clear, except for a cloud bank behind me, over the hills behind the town, and I was looking forward to some beautiful colors in the sky after sunset. But as the sun got closer to the horizon, a stormy weather front started moving in from the north, and by sundown, the sky was filled with ominous clouds. And while I had originally gone hoping to capture some vivid colors after the sun sank below the sea, I found these dramatic images to be just as appealing. I have several photos of the sunset at Cannon Beach, some with clear skies and amazing colors, but I have to say, the images I captured this visit are the most striking of them all.
This image was captured with a Canon 5D, Tamron 24-135 lens at 24mm, 1/15 sec. @ f/13, ISO 50. To see more of my images, please visit www.northwestnaturalimagery.com.
Well Rocky, you have another masterpiece on your hands with this shot. Very nice job as always.
Beautiful and moody, overall an exceptional effort. I’d say your time there was well spent Rocky.
Awesome shot Rocky!!!!!!
Great!!
I love the dramatic sky in this scene Mr. Rockwell. You truly are a master.
I’ve seen many photos of Haystack Rock and Cannon Beach, and I can honestly say I like this one the best. And yes, that does include the ones I’ve taken myself. Outstanding job Mr. Rockwell.
WOW!! Now this is an awesome shot. Rocky, you amaze me.
Rocky, what can I say man? Just awesome!!!
I like this a lot Rocky. I love it when I see a familiar scene shown in an entirely different way.
“The Haystack” never looked so good. Kudos Rocky.
Beautiful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I’ve got to get up your way with my camera some time Rocky. The images that you, Ron Trees and others post of the Pacific Northwest are just fantastic. I’m envious of the amazing photographic opportunities you folks up there have. Awesome job on a truly amazing photo.
Gorgeous shot Mr. Rockwell!! I’ve been a “secret fan” for years, but I just had to comment on this pic. Keep up the great work!
I agree with Kim Neelin. This is one of the best pics of Haystack Rock that I have ever seen.
My four year old saw this pic and said she wants to go play on the beach and climb those rocks. Gotta love the imagination and drive of a child, huh? Anyway, this is a wonderful shot Mr. Rockwell. Very well done.
I envy you your opportunities to capture these magnificent oceanscapes, Rocky. Another Rockwell classic, for sure.
Well Rocky, what can I say, I love your photos!! I have since the first ones I saw a couple years ago. This one is no exception. It is magnificent!! The sky is beautiful, the detail on the rocks is great and the color is awesome. I really like the splash, out in the water a ways, where the water has just hit the rock.
Very nicely done!!
What’s not to like? This is a very nice scene Mr. Rockwell.