The San Diego area had a taste of summer in early April. A few days were in the upper 70s and was a good reminder to head inland for some photography before the temperatures soar into triple digits. On a clear sky day, I took a drive through Ramona, California, and visited Sutherland Lake. I suppose it’s strictly a reservoir, a dam at its western edge. I chose this location because I’d not visited it before and it offered a mix of nature and architecture. I also knew the drive itself would be pleasant. I’d driven past the turnoff for this area many times. Today, I’d travel that turnoff.

I enjoyed photographing the dam, its rippling patterns of textured concrete holding back the drainage of the lake. The afternoon light gave added to the ruddy tones of the dam and the land behind it. The lake itself is peaceful and photogenic, too. The gentle slopes of the hills approaching the water's edge… I can’t get enough of those types of photos. Several trees along the winding roadway along the lake were interesting subjects, too.

I’m glad I brought my infrared camera with me! With the empty sky, the lake looked more interesting in infrared to me. If you’re curious about infrared photography, I converted one of my cameras to infrared with LifePixel. If you have an older camera you’re not using, repurpose it for infrared. I chose a deep black & white conversion. That’s the type of look I like.

As the afternoon pressed on, the western side of the lake retreated into shadow. I continued exploring the area, shifting my attention to scouting future photo opportunities. I scouted several places I’d like to return and capture at sunrise. Lots of opportunities, and I didn’t even make it to the eastern side of the lake. Leaving the area, I stopped for a few photos of a ranch and some farmland. A surprisingly promising sunset was taking shape. Today would not be the day for me to capture that with the camera - I was on the wrong side of the hills. Yet I could enjoy some golden light before the ranch succumbed to shadow.