Percival Landing Boardwalk
Percival Landing is home to a boardwalk that runs along the eastern shore of Budd Inlet in the heart of Olympia,. The view from the boardwalk looks out across the Port of Olympia marina, and on a clear day the Olympic Mountains line the horizon behind the moored boats. The layering of masts, water, cargo ships and snow capped peaks is the shot here, and it really delivers during golden hour as the sun drops. The boardwalk itself is a clean, open structure with wooden railings that work well as leading lines. A three story timber viewing tower near the north end offers a 360 degree elevated perspective that takes in the marina, the inlet, and the Washington State Capitol dome to the south. It is worth climbing for wider compositions or for scouting the light before committing to a spot at water level. Sunset is the main event, but early morning can be equally good when the water is calm and the reflections are sharp. The boardwalk is open at all times, so blue hour and night shooting are easy to manage. Parking is free for two hours in nearby lots, and the whole area is flat and easily accessible. (Olympia, Washington, USA)
