Photographing the Palouse

by Bill Foster

A visit to the Palouse is a must for photographers. The Palouse is a region that encompasses southeastern Washington and parts of western Idaho north of Moscow. The best time of year for your photographic visit is from around June 5th to June 30th. The shot I took of the red barn in the distance is from the top of a hill called Steptoe Butte in Steptoe Butte State Park (located near Colfax,WA) looking east into Idaho. Since the distances from on top Steptoe Butte are great (up to 10 miles) a tripod and a telephoto lens are essential. I shot this photo at sunrise with a 70-200mm f2.8 lens set with a 2x extender at f 11. A delayed shutter release built into the camera or a remote trigger release will help reduce vibrations and help produce a sharper picture. If you have a longer telephoto lens even better. I stayed in the Best Western Wheatland Inn in Colfax,WA which is very close to Steptoe Butte. You can contact the Pullman Chamber of Commerce in Pullman WA for a free map of places to photograph in the Palouse.There is another motel in Colfax,WA but I don’t remember it’s name. I am sure Trip Advisor will have it. If you really want that bright green look you should go in June. Book early because that is when everyone goes for the photography.