Location: America's Back Roads

Some of my most successful and rewarding photo trips have been those down the back roads of America. I don't mean just getting off the Interstate and taking the US highway, but taking state, county, or other local roads. They may be paved, gravel, or simply a dirt.

Of course don't take 4WD (four wheel drive) trail or road unless you have a 4WD vehicle, or a high-clearance vehicle that you've had successful experience with on 4WD trails and roads, and even then be very cautious.

However, most dirt and gravel roads across America can be navigated by normal two-wheel drive vehicles, especially if they have a high clearance ability and will keep you from "bottoming out" when driving over rocks, pot holes, or other possible hazards common to normal vehcles.

Going out and taking that paved, gravel, or dirt country road off the beaten path can bring a wealth of photo opportunities. Rural America makes for great photography. Photos of old barns, deserted farms or homes, charming villages, picturesque churches, farmers and ranchers at work, fields of crops, scenic streams, covered bridges, dusty windmills, lonely silos, wildflowers, and storm clouds over a field of golden wheat are just some of the great opportunities you can find. Such trips make for great day long or even weekend excursions. Even trips or vacations to distant locations can be enriched by taking some time to travel the back roads in the area or along the way. But don't get discouraged if you travel a few without finding photo opportunites to your liking. The next one might be filled with real gems. It's very much well worth the effort.

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