Bixby Bridge
Bixby Bridge is one of the most iconic spans on the California coast, arching dramatically over a deep canyon where Bixby Creek meets the Pacific. The classic composition frames the bridge from the north pullout on Highway 1, where you can shoot the full arch with the ocean and coastal cliffs filling the background. Golden hour is ideal here, with warm light wrapping around the concrete structure in the late afternoon, though overcast days give you even, soft light that works well for longer exposures of the creek below. A wide angle lens in the 16-35mm range helps capture the full scale of the bridge and its surroundings, while a telephoto lets you compress the layers of headlands behind it. The north pullout is the most popular vantage point and fills up quickly, so arrive early. You can also walk down toward the creek bed for a lower perspective looking up at the arch. (Big Sur, California, United States)
