Amidst the outdoor industry, the Pacific Northwest is well known for its mountains, hiking, biking, and oceans. Home to brands like REI, Outdoor Research, Filson, Transition Bikes, and many others, the Northwest is at home outdoors.
However, there is a lesser-known region within the Northwest that offers unparalleled views and remains relatively undocumented by outdoor brands in their commercial photography and video production.
The San Juan Islands is an archipelago of 172 islands (at high tide) tucked between Washington State and Vancouver Island. This diverse and truly unique region rivals other coastal communities yet remains largely untapped for photo and production shoots.
Based in Bellingham, WA, we’re fortunate enough to be an hour away from being lost in the islands. It’s this proximity that helped inspire our business name, Port Side Productions. Spending time on the water is synonymous to us with stories and adventure - two things the San Juans have in spades and two things we help clients wrangle with each project.
Here’s why the San Juan Islands should be your next location for an outdoor commercial photo or video shoot.
1. Scenery
What’s that saying? Location, location, location. The San Juans have a unique look and feel to them. Rocky beaches, sandy beaches, tide pools, mountain vistas, open water, quiet coves, country roads, peaceful towns—the San Juans truly cover a diverse range of scenery all within a relatively short distance.
2. Access
The San Juans are accessed either by private boat or by ferry. The ferry leaves Anacortes, about an hour away from Seattle, which means you can be within 5 hours of a gear rental house from the most remote corner of the islands. The ferry stops at four of the largest islands, but if you have access to a boat, the islands truly open up. With 17 state parks in the islands, having a boat gives you access to the lesser-traveled corners.
3. Amenities
Every production needs stuff. From food to the odd run to the hardware store, no matter how well prepared we think we are, we inevitably need something to help bring a shoot together. Fortunately, the San Juans are home to Friday Harbor, Roche Harbor, and Eastsound. These three towns are the largest destinations and have grocery stores, hardware stores, restaurants, and lodging. If you prefer to camp, the islands have numerous campgrounds.
4. Activities
The San Juans have no shortage of activities that can be used in a shoot. Kayaking, hiking, freshwater swimming, saltwater swimming, crabbing, fishing, prawning, exploring tide pools, beach walks, picnics, camping, mountain biking, road cycling, bike packing, scuba diving, whale watching, bird watching, clamming—the list goes on. Because the islands are condensed in nature, it means that one island can provide a handful of activities within a 30-minute walking distance. Need to shoot kayaking, camping, hiking, and beachcombing in one day? Check.
5. Time of Year
May to September is the best time to be in the islands. The other times of the year are typically gray and rainy, but the odd clear winter day can lead to some vistas like you’ve never seen. The water keeps the air temperature relatively low, which means summertime shoots are manageable.
The San Juans have great potential for outdoor brands looking for a unique, diverse, yet accessible region. Photo shoots, product launches, and brand campaigns all thrive in this pocket of outdoor adventure. Need help producing a project in the area? Reach out and say hi.
Cole Heilborn
Producer & Director
