Exploring Fun Camera Walking Routes
I am always looking for different places to go Camera Walking, and this weekend a friend I decided to go out exploring, but the question was where. We both wanted to go some place interesting, but close to Seattle, so I started looking for possibilities. I found a number of resources that I thought I would share today in this post that helped us decide on our destination.
Walking Apps:
There are many apps available to track your walk, and some, like Map My Walk, actually show routes that were created by its members. I found several around Seattle that looked interesting.
Stuck on Earth is another app to explore. It doesn't give you a walking route, but you can see photos posted by members from around the world that can give you ideas of possible places to walk. It is free, so it is worth checking it out.
Walking Maps:
Local city and county parks and recreation departments have maps available to give you ideas. You can search for specific parks, which can result in an interesting Camera Walking experience.
Another great resource is Trail Link by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy. You can search for walks, parks, and trails throughout the country. There are some very interesting places that you can drive to and explore on foot.
You can also buy walking guides. I have several that I consult, such as A Falcon Guide, Best Easy Day Hikes Seattle. There are certainly other guide books, and they are easy to find in your local bookstore or on Amazon.
Explore Old Routes:
I enjoy walking in the morning, so my shots capture the early morning light, such as this one below of Seattle. The sky was just opening up, and the city was a bit darker.
To get a fresh walking experience, consider taking your regular walk at a different time of day. Walking my regular route in the late afternoon allowed me to capture a beautiful view of Seattle at sunset. I love my morning walks, but the mood and the light at sunset made for a very engaging photo.
Join a Photography Club or Meet-up Group:
Join a group so that you can let someone else do the planning. That works for many, and in addition to an interesting walk, you get to meet new people, an added benefit.
Other Quick Tips:
It is usually better to find routes that allow you to loop back to your starting point, rather than walking out then having to back track. Although you can find different views when you back track, most walkers enjoy looking at new things throughout the walk.
When walking through neighborhoods, look for pocket parks that might be tucked in between houses along your walk. I walked several of Seattle's neighborhoods a few years ago, and loved walking by some of our city's pocket parks.
Also try to seek out quieter streets. Not only will your walk be more peaceful, you may discover some fun shots.
In case you are wondering where my friend and I ended up walking, we went to Myrtle Edwards Park along Puget Sound. It is located at the foot of Queen Anne with great views of Seattle. It is a wonderful place to walk, smell the sea, and capture interesting shots.
Seeking out new routes is a great way to keep your Camera Walking fresh and interesting. Take a look at some of these resources and go exploring this week. The walk and your creative photo captures will be worth it!
