Let me know if there’s anything that represents America better than the diner. In the meantime, here’s an image taken last week while in Washington DC.
Stories that Tell Themselves.
Category: Travel Photography
The Empire Strikes a Chord.
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.
Finding Peace
While some find their peace blending into a crowd. I find mine in the few moments of solitude I’m able to steal. No questions, demands or expectations. Just me, my camera, and all the time I need to compose my thoughts and actions.
Things to come.
After ten-plus years, a small following, and virtually no feedback, the thought of bringing Photogeek to a merciful end has crossed my mind more than a dozen times. Though I still love sharing pictures with others. I get more feedback from friends and family there than I ever will here. Still, this blog was started and began with just that in mind. I want to share my images and stories with friends, family, and whoever might want to join. A few things bring me peace and calm, like photography and capturing a moment. Throughout my life, I’ve always been an explorer who enjoys documenting the moment. All things said. A recent inquiry from a follower interested in contributing an essay to the blog ballooned into the possible contributions from a poet, an expat, and a fellow photographer, which inspired me to keep this train running. So, who knows, perhaps these outside contributors will spark more creativity. It’s worth a shot. Hopefully, it won’t be long before these contributions get the love they deserve. Only time will tell. Any interested parties looking to contribute. Step forward.
Travel Light.
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.
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…
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.
My First Subway Ride to Washington DC.
Since moving to the Washington DC area in 2021. My desire to take a ride on the subway has grown faster than my ability to walk. Having a working vehicle and a wife who’s dependance on four wheels and an impressive engine. Any extensive walking is frowned upon. Due to some vehicular issues. The idea of taking the metro to DC quickly became a reality. Upon our arrival at U Street, I noticed the many murals in the area. Excited to take many photos, yet eager to enjoy my first taste of chili half-smoke, we headed inside. After enjoying what was easily the best chili dog in my life. We headed out to the adjacent alley and got to business. Considering what I’ve endured medically, losing and regaining my ability to walk. This trip to Washington DC was the most unassisted walking I’ve done in a few years.
Bring the Calm.
The majority of this weekend and every weekend is spent in Baltimore or Washington DC. With so much more to explore and enjoy anytime soon. Chances are we won’t run out of things to do anytime soon. While Belvedere, Maryland. Our Sunday had a calmer tone, as me spent much of the early afternoon on the relatively sleepy Potomac River. Despite the very hard sun, I manged to find some shade and get some nice shots. We finally agreed on what to eat on Thanksgiving and got most of our food shopping done. Happy Holidays.
Wherever I May Roam.
We spend so much time in the office and at home. What keeps me sane is that endless desire to find new places, travel roads I’ve never been and experience things for the first time. I may not always come home with the best pictures, stories, or experiences. But that’s life.
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