For our anniversary, Roni and I spent a week on North Carolina’s Outer Banks. We found a little condo through the Armed Forces Vacation Club, loaded the SUV with my camera gear and her crafting supplies, and headed south. Somewhere on the drive I came down with the flu. A 103 fever slowed me down, but it didn’t stop me. Sunrise, sunset, lighthouses, and one big surprise.
Jockey’s Ridge State Park, Nags Head
I’d never heard of it. A friend I’ve known since high school messaged me and said I had to see it, so we drove over that afternoon. Midday sun, a fever matching the heat coming off the sand, hang gliders overhead. Brown sand, blue sky, and almost nothing else but the occasional plant.
I made it back to the car and drank a bottle of water. Then another. Maybe a third. Then I went back that same evening, and the sunset was unbelievable. I chased the light all over those dunes until I stopped and wondered: where am I, and where is my car?
More Jockey’s Ridge photographs are coming soon. In the meantime, browse the Seascape Collection.
Lighthouses
The black-and-white lighthouse is Bodie Island, just south of Nags Head. I also climbed to the top of one and shot straight down the spiral stairs, five flights of them.
More from the Outer Banks, including sunrises, sunsets and piers, is on the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring to Jockey’s Ridge?
Water, sunscreen, and a charged cell phone. It’s a lot of open sand, and it’s easy to lose track of where you left the car.
What time of day is best at Jockey’s Ridge?
I went at midday and again at sunset. Midday was hot, bright and empty. Sunset was the one I’d go back for.
Where can I buy fine art prints of the Outer Banks?
Outer Banks photographs are being added to the store as the collection grows. If one of these is on your list, reach out and I’ll let you know when it’s ready, or check the Seascape Collection for available prints in paper or metal, sizes 9×12 to 40×60.