Date/Time
Saturday, October 7th, 2023 | 6:00am - 9:00am
Where We Will Meet
Surfers Point at end of lot (See below for more details)
Where The Walk Will End
Meet at Beach House Tacos on the Pier
About This Walk
THE START
Start Time: 6AM (one hour before sunrise)
End Time: 9AM on the Pier
Our official starting point is at the North end of the paid parking area at Surfers Point. It’s the dirt parking area at the end of the lot. The entrance is located across from the fairgrounds. Once in the lot, keep going through the lot until the road surface changes from asphalt to dirt… continue to the end. The gate opens at 5:30AM. The official walk route starts at Surfers Point, runs along the promenade and ends on the pier at 9AM. Please explore this link for more information. https://www.californiabeaches.com/beach/surfers-point-beach/
About the starting point. I often get asked if it’s OK to start elsewhere on our official walk route rather than the official starting point as stated above. The answer is yes. You may start anywhere on the official route. The only stipulation would be that you end up on the pier at 9AM for the group shot and take the time to introduce yourself to either Joanne or myself and other walkers during the walk. We’re doing this not only to get great images, but also to meet and share our ideas with other creatives. So yes, it’s OK, but I do ask that you get involved with the walk.
EDIQUETTE and SAFETY
About Safety, I know, but it needs to be covered. I’ve never felt threatened in this area but it’s always prudent to be aware of your surroundings and belongings. Things can and will disappear if left unattended. Also, as photographers we instinctively know when we can or cannot approach someone to get their picture. If in doubt please smile and ask for permission (especially with children). Use your best judgment and honor their wishes and all will be fine. From my experience, people like friendly faces and are eager to give them back if they get one.
BE PREPARED
So, what can we expect to see and photograph during the walk. Lots of surfers, in and out of the water. You’ll be OK with 200mm for the actions shots especially if you’re willing to get a little wet… 300mm to 400mm is ideal. Lots of morning joggers on the promenade and shoreline. Wildlife, mostly birds near our starting point and along the shoreline. Fisherman on the pier should you want to venture out that far. As you get near the pier, it’s always fun to pull out the sticks and play with some long exposure stuff. I’ve seen some well crafted images taken in rather drab conditions so even if the weather doesn’t cooperate, it’s always worth a go. Might want to bring a 2 or 3 stop ND filter along for the ride just in case. Also, I love panning waves from the pier, looking down on them. It’s amazing what you can capture if you just stop and explore them. Might take a bit of time to dial in your exposure, bit it can be worth spending the time to do it. I start at 1/10 of a second, close down and go from there.
Do your homework. Get familiar with doing silhouettes, long exposures, lifestyle photography, nature and animal photography, panning and action shots. This walk has it all and then some. I truly believe this walk is done on one of the best locations on the California Coastline. Be prepared… you won’t regret it.
AFTER THE WALK
The walk officially ends at the pier gates located just past Eric Ericsson’s at 9AM for the group picture. Please be there on time. After the group shot, we’ll be meeting at Beach House Tacos which is located on the pier and opens at 8:30AM. Please try and be there… great people and fun. You won’t regret it.
That’s it for now. BE READY!!!! Going to have a great time.
Join WalkVentura Photowalk UpdateSeptember 4th, 2023
Due to recent storm activity the Ventura Pier from the shoreline to to the end of the pier is closed for repairs. The restaurants at the beginning of the pier remain open for business. That would include Beach House Tacos which is our end of walk meeting place. Any questions, let me know 🙂
