Dodge City Days
When: July 28—August 6
Where: Dodge City, KS
What: It’s country, country, country in this festival celebrating Dodge City’s heritage. The highlight is the Roundup Rodeo, held by the elite Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), which last year attracted nearly 800 of the best cowboys and cowgirls in the business.
Tip: Rodeo finals are held at night, so bring the on-camera flash (short recycle times are a must!) and a fast tele. Or, go early in the morning during the qualifying rounds to practice in broad daylight.
For info: 620-227-3119; www.dodgecitydays.com.
Elvis Week
When: August 8—16
Where: Memphis, TN
What: Each year, thousands of Elvis Presley fans gather in Memphis for a week-long celebration of all things about the King. Elvis impersonators in costume and the candlelight vigil ceremony make for great, dramatic shots.
Tip: Candid moments (photo, above) are priceless.
See www.chrishamiltonphotography.com for more inspiration.
For info: 800-238-2000; www.elvis.com.
Perseid Meteor Shower
When: Peaks on August 12
Where: Rural areas in North America
What: Get yourself away from city lights and (preferably) up into the mountains to watch the annual Perseid meteor shower, which rains up to 100 meteors an hour from July 23 through August 22.
Tip: The nearly full moon this year will add light to the night sky, so experiment with shorter exposure times (5 to 10 minutes). Cable release, tripod, you know the drill. For info: www.space.com/spacewatch.
Killer Whale Watching
When: Late August through early September
Where: San Juan Islands, WA
What: A pod of almost 90 orcas frequents the waters of these islands in late summer, sometimes coming within 10 feet of shore in search for food.
Tip: Lime Kiln Point (a.k.a. “Whale Watch Park”) is one of the best places to view whales from shore. The seas tend to be calmer early in the morning, so it’s easier to spot the sprays.
For info: 888-468-3701; www.visitsanjuans.com.
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