Being a midwesterner who rarely thinks about things like tide tables, that aspect wasn’t immediately in my mind with our recent visit to California. However, as I found out by “trial and error”, it dramatically alters the ability to access certain areas of the coast, along with the features that may be visible. It really came into play with two particular instances.
First, in searching around for some interesting coastal areas near the Redwoods, I happened to stumble on the location of Bowling Ball Beach. After seeing the amazing shot by Gary Crabbe of this spot, I wanted to at least check it out.
To give me at least “a little” credit, I did think to check the tide tables upon trying to figure out which day might be best to venture down here. I at least had enough sense to think that I wanted to be around for low tide and sunset. After all, it was quite a hike from Eureka, CA down to Point Arena, CA (as in a 4-hour drive one way!). What I learned the hard way, however, is that the correct question is not only “what day?” but “what month?” The tide conditions for making this spot accessible with visible “bowling balls” is quite specific. How specific I really didn’t know, until we actually took the drive down there to find a coast socked in with fog and tides low, but not low enough for boulders. Ah well, another time of year, another time perhaps.
The second instance is related to my earlier post on Houda Point. We arrived here in the evening, the beach looked quite open as far as “sandiness.” We walked down the cliff and started exploring the rocky caves and beach. We ran into some people and made remarks about how beautiful of a spot this was. A lady chimed back – “It is, just be careful of the tides!” Those damn tides again! Curses! Would another spot be soaked in by tides?! Worse yet, would we get trapped by staying here too long? Would a couple of Michigan tourists become dinner for the local shark population?
My lack of forethought was remedied by a quick check of the tide tables on my iPhone. The tide was going out. The sharks will not have any midwesterners for dinner tonight.
After exploring the beach for a couple of hours, I settled on this spot as where I would want to be if there was any chance for a last-minute break in the clouds for some sunlight and color. The tide was quickly going out as sunset approached. It left exposed sea stars and shallow puddles along the entire beach. The puddles would be great for color reflections should there be any if the sun broke through at the horizon. I ended up making a more quiet, contemplative image that reminded me of the slight chill and mist in the air, the calm mood as if this area of the coast was going to sleep. The colorful sea stars on the rocks are reminders of the dynamic process taking place here.
These two events served as a great reminder to me about the very dynamic nature of our planet and our oceans. I probably could have saved some time (and concern about washing out to sea) with a little more upfront knowledge of the tides. As with everything about the ocean, the more you get to know her, the most she will reveal and share.
Very beautiful, Mark. I love the starfish. I wish we had them here.
Sharon
This “… quiet, contemplative image” is awesome! As my demented mind wanders, the unusual image would be if you could get the elk, the dogs and the sharks all at the right place at the right tide. May have to make another trip back there for that image. But, now you know.
I so enjoy your stories of how images take shape, with or without checking the tide tables. Thanks, Mark!
Thank you Monte. I think I could retire early if I got elk, dogs, and sharks all in one shot. 🙂
I think Earl may have nailed it, but I am relieved that his theory wasn’t tested. This picture is a great lesson in why we should remain open to what we are given. Had you been locked into what you had in mind before you got there, we would never have been treated to this beautiful and haunting image. This stays with you.
I hope you are much better by now.
Thanks Anita, yes, much better. Earl wasn’t too far off. 🙂 I would have at least grabbed one final shot before I was swallowed.
Thanks everyone. I am feeling a bit under the weather the past 2 days, sorry for the “bulk reply.”
I think than this picture is just beautifull. Great shoot !
Amicalement,
David
Mark, knowing you, you would of had those sharks posing for some spectacular close-ups with an interesting story about the adventure to post here. Oh well, if it was easy to get shots like the one by Gary Crabbe they wouldn’t be so special would they — live and learn, next time. Still your posted image is a beautiful shot — lovely little tidal pools around the rocks.
This is a very good shot Mark, I like the mood given by light and the composition.
lovely shot Mark. I’m glad the sharks didnt get you 🙂
A beautiful photograph and intriguing story.
Too bad for the sharks, they missed a talented photographer for dinner! This location was worth the effort in seeking out, it’s just beautiful. This is not a lucky shot, just one that takes a lot of skill and organization.