Painted Hills of Oregon | Peace and Solitude
A few years ago, I tried to do only enough research on the Painted Hills to find my way there without much trouble. One goal was to not see photographs of this landscape so I could make my own choices about what and how I'd photograph this area. I had a preconceived notion of what I'd find. After all, it's near central Oregon known for its high desert and sage brush. I was pleasantly surprised. Yes, it was desert and there was plenty of sagebrush, but the clay-stone offered up some beautifully colored hues in those hills.
Painted Hills Peace and Solitude
When I arrived well before sunrise, the light was pretty flat and the colors were dull, while the silence was palpable. I didn't hear birds or other noises from nature. I didn't hear cars or people. Not even a plane. I felt as if I could inhale the peace and solitude. So, as I waited for the light, that is exactly what I did.As I set up my tripod and began searching for a composition, the morning light began to wash over the hills and fill the valley illuminating it with the most beautiful haze. I'm sure that haze was created by the dust stirred up in the distance by a passing car. But, whatever it was, a most lovely haze hung in the morning light as the colors of the hills began to pop and reveal themselves.
Enriching Landscape of the Painted Hills
"Our landscapes connect us to our history; they are the source of our character as a people, as well as our health, our safety, and our prosperity. Natural resources enrich us economically, yes. But they also enrich us aesthetically and recreationally and culturally and spiritually."
~ Robert Kennedy, Jr.
Painted Hills and valleys of clay-stone seem to change color depending on light and moisture.
Painted Hills and valleys of clay-stone seem to change color depending on light and moisture.
Painted Hills of clay-stone seem to change color depending on light and moisture.
Painted Hills of clay-stone seem to change color depending on light and moisture.
Hills of clay-stone seem to change color depending on light and moisture.
Painted Hills layers of clay-stone seem to change color depending on light and moisture.
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All landscape, fine art, and still life images are available for purchase.
Please CONTACT ME at nadeen@nadeenflynn.com with any questions or to schedule your learning session.
As a published, featured northern California fine art photographer living in the greater Sacramento area, I specialize in fine art landscape and still life photography. My style is authentic, fresh and personality-driven. I offer in-person workshops, hourly lessons, and mentoring. While currently living in rural northern California with my husband and a couple thousand walnut trees, I post regularly to Instagram.
Serving Yuba City/Marysville, East Nicolaus, Wheatland, Lincoln, Woodland, Davis, Roseville, Rocklin, and the greater Sacramento area.
(530) 633-7575
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