Arriving on Whidbey, ©Kim TinuvielArriving on Whidbey, ©Kim Tinuviel Why do I choose to live and make art on Whidbey Island? People ask me this all the time. It would be more convenient in Seattle, more dynamic to in New York City, and more culturally diverse in San Francisco. I live and work on Whidbey Island for many of the same reasons that USA Today's recent Ten Best poll chose Whidbey as the third-best island in the US. It is a place of extreme beauty and inspiration. Each day I am surrounded by one of the most beautiful environments and comfortable climates in the world. Nearly 365 days each year, I can get outside and photograph this beauty and the animals and humans that occupy it. The landscapes are stunning, and the weather adds interest to everything.

07_MWhidby_Heron-at-KeystoneHeron at Keystone, ©Moira Whidby Another thing to note is that the USA Today poll recommends nine other wonderful islands, but none (besides Whidbey) are anywhere near the western United States. The closest competitors for visual beauty are Kauai (Hawaii) and Mackinac (Michigan). So if you are in the western US and haven't yet seen Whidbey Island, GET OVER HERE!

16_DWelton_20140525_0112Kim Tinuviel leads a Whidbey Photo Adventure tour. Photo ©David Welton And since you're considering a visit to Whidbey, won't you also consider enjoying a guided photography tour of the island? Whidbey Photo Adventures will take you out for a full or half day to see the best of Whidbey. Photographers of any skill level, with any camera will benefit. You'll get my individual attention to help you up your photography skills. Imagine coming home with a magazine-worthy photograph of Whidbey beauty! In fact, I'll even help you get your masterpiece printed as a high quality poster and shipped directly to your home.

SLucero_KimKim Tinuviel, owner and guide of Whidbey Photo Adventures. Photo ©Sandy Lucero. Check out the USA Today story and then call me at 360-639-4299 or email to register for your tour. I can also help you find some great accommodations while you're on Whidbey. See you soon!

Thanks to tour guests David Welton, Moira Whidby and Sandy Lucero for the use of their fantastic photos, all of which were made on a recent Whidbey Photo Adventure!