Revisiting the Sutherland Dam

Last week a photography coaching session took me out to Ramona, Ca. I had a great time working with my newest client and helping out with a few camera questions as she prepares for a trip to Africa, as well as answering a few Lightroom questions. Afterward, I decided to take a drive out to the Sutherland Dam, about 20 minutes east of Ramona. The last time I was there was in 2015.

I was glad I took the time to do a bit of exploring. I haven’t been out with my big camera much lately and it felt really good to flex my creative muscles.

The water level was lower than I expected, but still higher than the last time I visited, which was in the middle of California’s big drought. Hopefully we’ll get some more rain this winter – California always needs rain.

I find the unique architecture of the Sutherland Dam fascinating. On the back there are tall arches with gates for releasing water. The front reminds me of a scalloped seashell. Construction of this impressive structure was started in 1927, and wasn’t completed until 1954. Sutherland is one of 24 reservoirs that provide drinking water for the city of San Diego.

On my way home I pulled off the side of the road to visit with a few of the horses grazing in their pastures. Three of them were quite curious about me, but only one was particularly friendly. He was quite happy to let me love on him a bit.

I hope you enjoyed reliving this little excursion with me! It was so nice to get out for a bit and explore with my camera.

If you’d like to visit the Sutherland Dam, it is worth noting that lake access is typically closed from October through February, but there is a great view of the lake from the road above year-round. Click here for official info on the reservoir.

Images in this article were processed with Lightroom, Aurora HDR 2019, and Luminar 4