I first experienced the Outer Banks many years ago in the late 70’s. We had very little money so the only affordable way to stay on the Outer Banks was to tent camp at Oregon Inlet. At that time there was no hot showers, or hook ups, you spent the first 15 minutes after retiring for the evening in the tent mashing mosquitoes so large that they would carry you away! But in exchange for shivering while you showered and multiple mosquito bites, was the most incredible sound of the waves breaking on the beach just on the other side of the dunes. You cannot experience the intensity inside a building as you do lying in a tent nestled among the sandy dunes. From my first visit, I knew this is where I wanted to be. I have not had the opportunity to be a regular, but the stories from each journey back last a life time.
Now to the image of Avalon Pier. I have always loved the pier, and have been amazed with how she has withstood so many storms while others have been taken. Maybe it is the fascination that there is not a straight line on the pier, that it gently sways with the surf, on a calm day. Whatever it is the pier is always a common subject and my images. On this day storm clouds were building and a light rain fell. Not the destructive Nor’easter storms, just a nice gentle rain. The clouds were beautiful. As nice as it looked in color, in Black and White with a boost in the contrast it just popped!
We will be back next year, even if I have to find a third job to pay for it!!! I long for the beauty, the wonder of the Outer Banks. I will be thinking of all of you there with the Nor’easter approaching. Be safe and see you next year!
