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Beaufort  is one of those rare instances where the people, government and developers saw eye to eye and agreed with each other. That was in the preservation of nature. They knew it was the nature and scenery that brought its residents and visitors. This planning is evident though out the county, from Beaufort to Hilton Head. This makes an ideal situation just suited to the photographer. Shots can be found here that would be difficult, if not impossible, to get elsewhere. Even the amateur can get astonishing shots with just a little patience and thought.

There is more wildlife and nature here than in any other place I have ever been. And not only is it here, it's in plain sight. Everywhere you look, there is something flying, walking or crawling. Just look, it's there. Some times camouflaged, but if you watch, it will come to life.

Lizard catching a bug : copyright 1999 : R.J. Sorensen



Butterfly : copyright 1999 : R.J. Sorensen

It can be as simple as a butterfly, just notice the beauty, the simplicity. Photography is meant to show the world through your eyes. It doesn't matter what the subject is, it's how it is perceived. Color surrounds this area, and the weather causes some unique lighting possibilities.


One of the most popular nature shot is the bird life. The best times to catch marsh birds, such as the egret and heron, is in the morning and evening. Although they are out all day, the lighting of evening (3-8) or morning (6-10) can cause effects that are truly awesome looking, even for the amateur.

egret in the morning : copyright 1999 : R.J. Sorensen



pelican watching for a meal : copyright 1999 : R.J. Sorensen

Other great places to get that perfect shot are any of the tidal creeks. The marsh comes alive with color about 2 hours before sunset, and about 45 minutes before sun rise. Usually, if you go every morning for a week, you will get that beautiful shot.

Sunset on Coosaw Island : copyright 1999 : R.J. Sorensen


Sun rise on Lucy Creek : copyright 1999 : R.J. Sorensen

A great sun rise spot is Harbor Island and Hunting Island. Colors glow off the water. Try using a low ASA film, if you are using a 135 mm camera, try either Kodak Extar 25 or Gold 100. Use a longer shutter opening, and the colors will really take to the film, particularly violets and reds. There are photo shops in Beaufort that will work with you to help bring out the desired exposure and color balance of your prints.
The biggest secret in shooting Beaufort is to always have a camera with you. Too much happens here, it's always happening if you just look, show the world how you see it, after all,
  you're on one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

Weather Index

Sunrise / set Index

Tide Index

Take me back home Mr Sea Gull
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All Photography was done by R.J. Sorensen
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