Cannon Beach: A Decade Later Through a Photographer's Lens
A familiar coastal fog clung to Cannon Beach as I returned after a decade away, a soft, diffused light blanketing the iconic mist-shrouded Haystack Rock. The air hung heavy with the scent of saltwater and pine, a fragrance that instantly transported me back. Armed with my Sony a7R IV and a 24-70mm lens, I felt the familiar urge to capture the dramatic sweep of the coastline, instinctively setting my aperture to f/8. I wondered how this place, so deeply etched in my memory, had changed. Would the spirit of Cannon Beach, its raw beauty and unique charm, remain intact?
The Ghost of Sandcastles Past
My visit fell just after the annual Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest, a local tradition I'd always admired from afar. Even though the event was over, the beach still bore witness to its artistry. The sheer scale of the remaining eroded sandcastles was impressive. I watched as children playing amidst the ruins, their laughter echoing against the backdrop of the ever-present Haystack Rock, a silent witness to their joy. It was a poignant scene, a reminder of the ephemeral nature of art and the enduring spirit of community. The community spirit of Cannon Beach is alive and well, and that part was unchanged.
Cannon Beach Photography: A Hands-On Experience
My trip wasn't just about nostalgia; it was also about honing my craft. I attended a landscape photography workshop focused on capturing the moody Pacific Northwest light. The instructor emphasized patience and observation, urging us to find the hidden beauty within the often-overcast skies. We spent hours exploring the tide pools at low tide, a magical world teeming with life. Starfish clinging to rocks, anemones pulsating in the shallows, and the reflections of Haystack Rock in the wet sand created endless photographic opportunities. I experimented with long-exposure photography, trying to capture the movement of the waves crashing against the Needles, a series of smaller rock formations south of Haystack Rock.
Mastering Long Exposure at the Needles
Using a 10-stop neutral density filter, I slowed down the shutter speed to several seconds, blurring the water into a silky smooth texture. It was a challenging but rewarding technique, transforming the chaotic energy of the ocean into a serene and ethereal image. It helped to bring out the character of this coastal gem.
A Taste of Cannon Beach: Clam Chowder and Craft Brews
No trip to Cannon Beach is complete without indulging in the local food scene. I made a beeline for Ecola Seafood Restaurant and Market, a local institution renowned for its clam chowder. The steaming bowl of clam chowder, creamy and rich with the taste of the sea, was the perfect antidote to the cool coastal air. Later, I sought refuge from the drizzle at the Cannon Beach Hardware and Public House, a unique establishment that combines a hardware store with a craft beer pub. Settling into one of the rustic wooden tables, I savored a pint of IPA against the backdrop of a rainy street, the hoppy aroma mingling with the scent of sawdust. Both locations were excellent, but Ecola Seafood Restaurant and Market was easily the best.
The Shadow of Social Media: Increased Tourism and its Impact
It’s impossible to ignore the impact of social media and increased tourism on Cannon Beach. The beauty of the landscape that draws so many visitors is also its vulnerability. I witnessed lines of tourists with cameras, all vying for the perfect Instagram shot. Sadly, I also noticed litter along the beach and worn paths leading to viewpoints, signs of the increased foot traffic. Capturing authentic moments amidst the "Instagram frenzy" became a challenge. I would watch tourist carelessly trample through areas in an effort to get a picture, with complete disregard for the plants or animals. It became clear that the balance between appreciating this natural wonder and preserving it had become more fragile.
Ethical Photography in a Popular Destination
This realization underscored the importance of responsible tourism. It is no longer enough to simply admire the scenery; we must actively protect it. This prompted me to ask:
How can I practice ethical tourism in Cannon Beach?
Here are some useful steps:
- Respect the environment
- Support local businesses
- Minimize the environmental impact
Cannon Beach: A Call to Ethical Travel
My return to Cannon Beach was a bittersweet experience. While the landscape retained its undeniable beauty, the increased tourism and its potential impact were undeniable. As visitors, we have a responsibility to tread lightly. I urge you to consider ethical and sustainable tourism practices when visiting Cannon Beach. Respect the environment, support local businesses, and minimize your impact on the fragile ecosystem. Practice the "Leave No Trace" principle and be mindful of the local community. We must commit to preserving the beauty of Cannon Beach for generations to come. The beauty of Cannon Beach must be sustained for future generations.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a fiery sunset across the sky, I captured one last image: the silhouette of Haystack Rock against the vibrant colors, a graduated neutral density filter balancing the exposure. In that moment, I felt a sense of peace and tranquility, a reminder of the enduring magic of Cannon Beach. But it was a peace tinged with a sense of urgency, a call to action to protect this precious place.