Patricia Davidson Photography

Patricia Davidson: Oregon Fine Art Landscape & Nature Photographer

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My Top 10 Favorite Photos of 2017

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It’s hard to believe that another year has flown by! It’s that time of year once again where I post my top ten photos of the year. And it’s where I participate in Jim Goldstein’s annual project where he curates a list of other photographers showcasing their favorite photos. I’ve lost track, but I’m sure I’ve participated at least 5 years now.

Last year (2017) I didn’t travel as much as previous years. There were some destination cancellations due to vehicle problems. Since I now live nomadically in an RV, sometimes the weather or vehicle problems can dictate a change of plans. And that has been the case this year and even the previous year. I did however, get to spend about 4 months back in Oregon. I also spent some time in Utah, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, California and Colorado.

Another thing that occurred last year that changed my plans was the death of my father. He was 89 years old. I thought for sure he would live to be 90 this year and all my family would get together to celebrate it. Unfortunately, dad had a year of ups and downs with his health and he passed away on September 2nd. I am glad Mike & I stopped at his house in April on our way back to Oregon and enjoyed a nice visit. I took so many photos of dad during our time there. I’m still deeply saddened by his death and missing him so much. Nothing prepares you for the death of a family member.

It was definitely a struggle to come up with ten images as I feel like I didn’t shoot as much. The positive thing is that I spent a lot of time with family this year.

If you missed my annual slideshow where I’ve added some of these photos, I’ve included the link at the bottom where it’s hosted on YouTube. Thanks for taking a look and Happy New Year!

Panorama of Superstition Mountains as seen one evening from Lost Dutchman State Park, Apache Junction, Arizona.

My husband and I spent a lot of time in Arizona last year. A new place we stayed was at Lost Dutchman State Park with the beautiful Superstition Mountains very close and easily accessed from the park. We’ve tried to stay in this campground before but it’s always been booked up. We got lucky and were able to stay for a week. In this particular image, I took a panorama to capture the full mountain range. I took other photos while there but this was my favorite during a week with very little color.

storm clouds and mountain range
Storm clouds and view of mountain range in Tucson, Arizona.

I loved hanging out in the Tucson area for a few weeks. This photo was taken during an approaching rain storm. A rare thing in the winter! I have several beautiful sunset shots out in the desert, but for some reason I really like this one.

sea stacks in background and in coming tide
My first time at Bandon Beach in months. It’s nice to be back home along the Oregon Coast.

It was great to be back in Oregon and wandering one of my favorite beaches, Bandon! I must say, I do miss getting out to do beach photography on a regular basis. I lived on the Southern Oregon Coast for over 20 years and the beaches there were my playground and backyard.

waterfall at Yosemite
Late afternoon view of Bridalveil Falls from Tunnel View at Yosemite National Park in California.

We made it to Yosemite National Park but for only a couple of days as we were in a hurry to get back to Oregon by May. I had a chance to meet up my friend, Franka Gabler who is a fantastic landscape photographer who lives near Yosemite. Check out her inspiring photography.  Though I didn’t come away with anything I felt was really great, it was just wonderful to wander around such a gorgeous area.

mountain and lake view
A summer sunset at Sparks Lake in Central Oregon with view of South Sister.

We spent an entire month in Central Oregon during the month of August. It was definitely hard to leave this area!

Mountain View and lake
View of South Sister during a summer sunset at Sparks Lake, Oregon.

Another image at Sparks Lake, of course. We did get out to do some kayaking there with our wonderful family.

smith rock at sunset
A beautiful sunset during a hot August night at Smith Rock State Park in Terrebonne, Oregon.

One of the best thing about being in Central Oregon was staying on the property of Smith Rock State Park. My husband and I were camp hosts for the Welcome Center. Theres nothing like camping right there at Smith Rock!

smith rock at sunset
Smith Rock in Central Oregon during a brilliant sunset in the summer.

We were there at Smith Rock State Park during the solar eclipse. Since we were on duty, I didn’t plan any photography during the event. I wrote about it here.  

afternoon light on mountain
Waiting for the last light of the day at Cathedral Rock in Sedona, Arizona.

One of the places we stayed for a couple of weeks was Sedona, Arizona. We had the greatest campsite with some incredible views. I guess I really liked this shot best waiting for sunset.

Late afternoon light highlighting red hills in Sedona, Arizona.

In this Sedona image I loved how the light hit the rocks and the approaching storm clouds.

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Comments

  1. Lisa Talley

    Thanks for sharing. Inspired me to go to Sparks Lake. So sorry for your loss. I lost my dad 4 years ago, it was the long goodbye with dementia, but I treasure the times I spent with him. Have fun on the road. Our fifth wheel is ready for adventure, but we still have a few years to go before your lifestyle is our reality.

    • Patricia

      Thanks so much Lisa! So glad you are going to be out exploring soon living your dream in your RV! Keep in touch and let me know how it goes! All the best to you!

  5. Mark

    Thank you for this look back on your 2017 Patricia. I hope some of it helps just a tiny bit in the healing of pain from losing your father. I may find myself on the Oregon coast mid next year, and know where to come to look for inspiration.

  6. Todd Henson

    Such beautiful photographs, Patricia, and amazing light! I’m glad you had the chance to spend time with your father. My mother has been in the hospital through Christmas and New Years. It really brings home the importance of family. I wish you a fantastic 2018!

    • Patricia

      Todd, thank you very much! I hope your mom is now doing better. You are so right about the importance of family! I wish you a great year as well!

  11. Alan Majchrowicz

    Another great year for you Patricia! Your travels are taking you to some amazing destinations. Your photos from Sparks Lake are among my favorites. I also love the look of your website, very clean fresh and easy to navigate. Nice work, hope to see you on the road somewhere this year!

  13. Larry Millican

    Wonderful photographs, Patricia, and enjoyed the narrative for each, also.
    Losing family members is hard; you have my thoughts with you… I think of my mother often, but I have learned to remember the good things, the good memories…
    Best wishes for the good light in 2018!

  14. Richard Wong

    I’m sorry to hear about your dad Patricia. It’s always tough to go through something like this. I lost my dad a few years ago too though much younger than yours. Photography was an outlet that helped me to grieve and cope with it. Hope you have a happier 2018. Cheers.

    • Patricia

      I really appreciate your thoughtful comment Richard and sorry for your loss as well. I am excited about spending time in nature this year and making new memories. Happy New Year!