Exploring Washington’s Autumn: Photography, Adventure, and Life on a Boat with Lisa Mize

Exploring Washington: Autumn Photography, Iconic Landscapes, and Life on a Boat

Washington State is a photographer's paradise, offering a rich diversity of landscapes—from the North Cascades to the waters of Puget Sound. Photographer Lisa Mize captures this beauty while living full-time on a boat. In a recent Exploring Washington State Podcast episode, Lisa shared her photography journey and unique lifestyle.

From Film to Digital

Lisa's passion for photography began with family photos during the "film days," capturing memories of her children. As she started hiking Washington's trails, her focus shifted to landscapes. She transitioned from film to digital with a Pentax camera, later embracing Nikon's mirrorless cameras for their efficiency and advanced features. Despite her professional gear, Lisa often uses her iPhone, saying, "The camera you have with you is better than no camera."

Capturing Autumn in Washington

Autumn is Lisa's favorite season for photography, and her work has been featured on Explore Washington State. Lisa captures stunning fall road trip scenes from Mount Baker's Artist Point to the North Cascades Highway. One standout shot is of a Japanese maple tree at Kubota Garden, a photo that has captivated her audience. Her secret? Patience, persistence, and finding the right light.

Sharing Knowledge

Lisa is passionate about teaching others, offering workshops that take photographers to some of Washington's most scenic spots. Her workshops focus on helping participants find their unique compositions. She emphasizes that great shots take time and practice. Only two out of 30 photos of the Kubota Garden tree stood out as exceptional. Her advice for beginners: Don't be discouraged by the numbers.

Life on a Boat

Lisa has lived on a 42-foot powerboat in Puget Sound for the past four years. While boat life presents challenges like cold winters and small hot water tanks, the breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and sunsets make it worthwhile. Lisa cherishes her lifestyle, which complements her passion for capturing Washington's natural beauty.

Looking Forward

As Lisa continues to explore and photograph Washington's landscapes, she remains dedicated to sharing her experiences through her workshops and personal work. Her advice? "Just go and see." Whether you're an aspiring photographer or a seasoned traveler, Washington's beauty awaits you.

With her camera and adventurous spirit, Lisa reminds us to appreciate the beauty around us—whether on a hike through the Cascades or from the deck of a boat in Puget Sound.