Category: Exploring

The Unimpressive Decline of Street Fairs.

Commentary, Exploring, Festivals

Below are a couple of pictures from our weekend trip to Snacktown, PA. You would think Snacktown would be governed by someone like Guy Fieri and would foster bad nutrition and dietary choices. Imagine finding a cover bands version of that over played Nu- Metal standard. As the years go by, I am convinced that all street fairs are alike. Needless to say. I might be done. Still, I enjoy finding interesting things and unique aspects of each town I visit. This particular theatre had plenty of character and bring home a cool shot made it all worth while. So, as they say. Never say never.

A Bad Day Gone Good

abstract, Exploring, Roadside Attractions, Street Photography, Travel, Travel Photography

Getting my wife out of bed and out the door early on a Saturday was worth all the sausage in Baconvile. A good start before realizing my balance and coordination was shit. with the only options of stay home and call it a day and get going and see what’s happens. Naturally, I chose the latter. After a short drive to Catonsville Maryland’s Atwater’s for a hearty breakfast. We filled our day with hitting up all the worthy bakery’s and a favorite record store. Though my balance seemed lackluster most of the day. It didn’t keep me down. The picture below was taken while returning to our car in Catonsville. The highly reflective mirrors and what looked like burnt edges caught the attention of both me and my wife.It made for a cool shot.

Going Underground… Again.

abstract, Canon R6 Mark II Mirrorless, Damion Photo, Exploring, Travel, Travel Photography

Another weekend and another trip to Washington, DC. This time to the Smithsonian Museum for two exhibitions within The Natural Museum of American History. Both “Food” Transforming the American Family and “America on the Move”. Examining how transportation—from 1876 to 1999—has shaped our American identity.Were both entertaing and educational. I continually enjoy the beauty of the architecture of the areas subway stations. The shapes and contrast creating moody and textured moments that I can live over and over. Cool beans.

Choosey Choosers

Blogging, Canon R6 Mark II Mirrorless, Exploring, Finding your Zen, Travel Photography

Choosing my favorite photos from my first experience taking the local transit from Fairfax, Virginia to Washington DC. While, by all means, my objective in bringing my camera along with me, lay ahead on the streets of DC. It was the transfer and the few minutes I waited for the connecting train to arrive that created the images that gave me a rush. Though many of the best shots taken focused on similar ideas and techniques. There were some that stood out more than others. The photo below is one of those photos. Having taken my first train ride at the age of seven and acknowledging it as my introduction and long time vehicle for freedom and exploration. I’ll forever credit it for it’s lasting contributions to my life. Growing up in New York City. The stories and dangers related to a ride on the subway were epic. Becoming an adult and experiencing transit in different cities, countries and continents continue to impact my life.

The Empire Strikes a Chord.

Art, Exploring, Street Photography, Travel, Travel Photography

After finishing a hefty brunch at Washington DC’s Union Market, we took a much-needed walk and explored the surrounding area. On the tail end of our journey, we found ourselves navigating a somewhat edgy alleyway that featured some exciting art and murals. I came across this Stormtrooper launching a mushroom into an awaiting group of teammates or an unsuspecting crown. Throughout my travels, I’ve encountered countless odes to Star Wars characters. However, my interest in the rapidly widening franchise has waned considerably. I still hold a special place in my heart for the original trilogy.

Travel Light.

Commentary, Downtown, Exploring, Finding Solutions, Location Shooting, Street Photography, Travel, Travel Photography

Partially due to my wives complaining, I’ve been trying to lighten the load in my camera bag when we go out. While this definitely took a while to adjust to. I’m beginning to open up to the idea of leaving all the surplus gear home and heading out with the basics. For a recent trip to Fredrick, MA. I left the extra lens, flash and usual bag of tricks behind and concentrated on just enjoying the trip. The few images I took, including this one. Received positive feedback from both my mentors and interested friends. So, unless, and even if you’re planning a serious photo trip. My advice is to bring the essentials. The weight you left behind will thank you.

The Streets of Frederick, Maryland.

Art, Exploring, Travel, Travel Photography

Whereas, more and more cities and towns of the U.S. are beginning to purposely look the same with each one being fitted with fimiliar franchises, box stores and corporations who seem to frown on individualism. As a photographer, I try to seek out the quickly vanishing personality of small cities and their still unique downtowns. There’s no fun in taking pictures of a Starbucks or McDonalds. They seem to take up space in every town, city or throughway, all look and serve the same purpose.

Ongoing Project Continues…

Downtown, Exploring, Photo Project, Travel, Travel Photography

Another ride to Washington DC on the Metro and another opportunity to explore the architectural beauty of the areas transit system. Saturday offered a bit more patience from my wife. Giving me the opportunity to spend a little more time composing my images. I’m looking forward to future solo trips that will allow me even more time to set up images. Until then.

Living in Shadow.

Exploring, Finding your Zen

The key to living is to never allow yourself to stop learning. It’s an essential part of growth and navigating lives challenges. When I think of some of the most important lessons I’ve learned as a photographer. I often think of an exchange with a friend and fellow photographer. Shortly after our friendship began , our passions were shared. We met up to talk photography, amongst other things, while sharing our work. His critique “What did a shadow ever do to you?” regarding the rather flat nature of some of my studio images. Made me think and ultimately, start a journey that turned my fear of failing to a love of shadows.