"Capturing Coastal Majesty: A Journey Through the Oregon Coast - Episode 8"

written by: Laura Dusek -

 Blogger & Freelance Photographer

On the Road with Laura & Photo Art by Laura Photography: Our journey through the Oregon Coast was a unique blend of adventure and serenity. We kicked off with a memorable camping night at Washington State Park – Millersylvania, after a scenic five-hour drive from Spokane. The landscape was a vibrant painting, with the spring farm hues dancing under the clear blue skies and fluffy white clouds.

Despite some technical hiccups with the GoPro, which failed to capture certain moments like passing through Moses Lake and my mention of the possibility of glimpsing the Aurora Borealis during Sun flares when they happen, our video still offers breathtaking glimpses into our excursion. Don't miss out on the awe-inspiring photographs and video footage awaiting you.

As we continued our journey, a brief stop in Ellensburg for snacks revealed the need to enhance our recording setup in the future for better front-facing views. Though we encountered snowfall on Snoqualmie Pass in May, the lack of safe stopping points prevented us from sharing this natural spectacle directly.

 

Upon reaching our destination at Millersylvania State Park, I navigated the campsite terrain, encountering unexpected challenges like closed facilities and nighttime walks to the restroom. However, armed with determination and the promise of capturing sunrise shots, I persisted. This journey was not without its hurdles, but it was these very challenges that made it all the more rewarding. Check out the video [link] to get a deeper understanding of this article. We've also addressed equipment issues, opting for a taller, sturdier stand for future recordings. Hey, we are close to getting 50 subscribers. When we get there, I can record LIVE on YouTube. Could you help a gal out? The current count is 38.

Back at the campsite, a minor setback with the inverter was resolved with the unexpected help of loved ones, reinforcing the importance of community and resourcefulness in outdoor adventures. A brief visit from family provided warmth and comfort amidst the chilly conditions. Thank you, Faith, for the coffee. This experience reminded me of the value of community in our journeys, and I'm grateful for the support I have. 

After resolving the technical issue (it's handy to have a toolbox with you and a husband who can walk you through electrical problems), I pressed on with my journey, relieved that no further disruptions were encountered. Departing for Astoria the following morning, I eagerly anticipated the next chapter of our adventure, just over a two-hour drive away. 

Get ready for the next chapter of our adventure in Episode 9, Chapter 2. We're about to uncover more hidden gems and share more breathtaking moments with you

DO YOU EVER WAKE UP WITH A PILE OF STICKY NOTES CLOGGING UP YOUR BRAIN.

 

Article Written by: Laura Dusek

As I sit here crafting this blog post, the clock reads just past 2:15 am on the Pacific coast, and here I am, wide awake with a jumble of sticky notes cluttering my mind. I find myself mentally loading the photo mobile with all the essentials that must be captured. Have you ever experienced that sudden realization while cruising down the freeway at 70 mph, halfway down I-5, when a nagging thought rushes in? That moment of inner dialogue, "Oh, darn..." followed by the reassurance that there's a store along the way where a replacement can be procured, as you continue your journey. Well, at this juncture, I'm striving to avert that inevitable pit stop.

Sunsets, waterfalls, and lighthouses, oh my! In just a few days, our forthcoming photography expedition across the Pacific Northwest promises to be a sensory delight. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or simply a lover of breathtaking vistas, every snapshot is poised to captivate. Let the anticipation soar.

This isn’t solely about photography; it's also a testament to solo camping and the strength of womanhood. I've been happily married to the love of my life for over 15 years, and he's been my unwavering support. But before our union, I navigated life independently. Somewhere along the journey, that sense of independence blurred, and this road trip serves as a reminder that the adventurous and resilient spirit within me still thrives.

Equipped with a rig that ensures my comfort, I'm armed with essentials: a cozy bed adorned with an electric blanket, a plush mattress to cushion my aging bones, a refrigerator to safeguard my sustenance, ensuring my coffee creamer remains stocked—a non-negotiable if you ask me. And let's not forget the luxury of instant hot water, albeit after a brief three-minute wait.

Now, onto those mental sticky notes... First, the imperative 5-gallon water bucket comes to mind. Followed by the rain jacket, with a mental note not to overlook the waterproof pants, still pristine in their packaging. Bottles of drinking water warrant their own reminder. Then, my thoughts drift to the content I wish to share about my journey, envisioning the magnificent beaches and cascading waterfalls awaiting my lens.

This fourteen-night-long excursion transcends mere personal rejuvenation; it's an opportunity to share my passion with you. Through my lens and the written word, I aim to unveil the awe-inspiring beauty of nature, inviting you to experience it vicariously.

So now that I have successfully unclogged my brain of sticky notes, it’s time to return to my pillow and be refreshed to get ready for this forthcoming adventure.

Ten Days and Counting - Oregon Bound

 TEN DAYS AND COUNTING!

 OREGON BOUND PHOTOGRAPHY SERIES

Can you feel the anticipation in the air? I sure can! It's been a hot minute since I've gone camping, but let me tell you, the thrill of hitting the great outdoors with my camera in hand is something I've been yearning for.

In just ten days, I'll be loading up my trusty Photo Mobile and setting off on an epic journey to explore the stunning Oregon Coast and the majestic Columbia Gorge, chasing waterfalls and capturing moments that will last a lifetime. It's not just a trip; it's a grand adventure, and I can hardly contain my excitement!

Now, let's address the elephant in the room: April showers. Yep, they're a thing, especially in the Pacific Northwest. But hey, I've got my raincoat ready, and I'm not one to shy away from a little liquid sunshine. With a positive attitude and a sturdy pair of boots, I'm ready to embrace whatever Mother Nature throws my way.

But before I hit the road, there are a couple of exciting updates I just have to share with you. I've got two game-changing pieces of equipment on the way, both of which will take my photography game to new heights. Want a sneak peek? You know where to find me—on my YouTube channel @photoartbylauraphotography.

Now, let's talk safety. As a solo camper, I've taken some precautions, including installing curtains in my rig to keep a low profile. Let me tell you, it was quite the DIY adventure—think cutting your own bangs gone wrong! But with a little creativity and teamwork, we made it work, and now I'm feeling stealthier than ever.

Speaking of teamwork, I've got to give a shoutout to my amazing husband, who's been instrumental in turning my overland dreams into reality. With his expertise in CAD and carpentry, he's transformed my vision into a beautifully functional setup that's ready for any adventure.

Now, let's talk about meals. Rain or shine, a girl's gotta eat, right? I've come up with some clever pre-planned meals that I can cook inside the car, just in case. And with my new heatable lunchbox, I'll be enjoying warm, hearty meals on the go—almost like having a mini crockpot in the car! Of course, I'll need to keep an eye on power usage to avoid any battery mishaps, but hey, that's all part of the adventure, right?  This Blog is not sponsored yet, maybe someday, but I just thought I would pass around the love to anyone else out there with a few links to some of the products I use or have tried. 

Camping in the Photo Mobile isn't just about convenience—it's also a smart financial move. Let's be real, hotel rooms can add up fast, especially when you're on the road for an extended period. By bunking in my cozy rig, I'm able to stretch my budget further and spend more time doing what I love—capturing breathtaking images of nature's wonders.

And hey, if you're enjoying following along with my adventures, why not consider supporting my dream? I've got a membership platform where you can access exclusive content and help keep me on the road, doing what I love. Every bit of support means the world to me, so thank you from the bottom of my heart.

So, are you ready to join me on this wild ride? From this blog to my YouTube channel, I'll be sharing every moment of the journey with you. Sure, I may be a one-woman show for now, but who knows what the future holds? Until then, I'll keep honing my skills and soaking up every second of this incredible adventure.

Thanks for being part of the journey, and until next time—happy trails! 🌟