Tag: Black & White

Once Upon a Time in Hell’s Kitchen.

Anecdote, Hell's Kitchen, Narrative, NYC, Storytelling, Street Photography

Living in Hell’s Kitchen was nine years of growth in countless ways. It was where I became a photographer and sharpened my writing and storytelling skills. I met and befriended a wide array of people from diverse backgrounds and I got married in the community garden directly across the street from my apartment on 48th Street. With all the rolls of film I shot. I wish I had spent more time photographing the character and character of my neighborhood. Accurately depicted in movies such as Sleepers, State of Grace, Gangs of New York, and countless others. As a kid, my Father would share his stories about his encounters with James Coonan and the Hell’s Kitchen gang, The Westies. When I look back, it’s surreal.

July 4th Antics

Beach People, Travel, Travel Photography

About a week ago. My wife suggested spending our July 4th on the beach. Not that it was a bad idea or anything. However, the fact that we’ve been experiencing record heat, and the day we picked would tear the skin right off ya. Still, she insisted. A three-day plan followed, involving three beaches. That sunny morning included a ninety-minute drive. Forty eight-dollar breakfast.Twenty dollar park entry. Twenty minutes from the car trunk to the sandy spot. Ten minutes on the beach before my wife decides it’s too hot and we should go home. Well planned.

Abstract Moments

abstract, Finding your Zen, Motion Blur

We were on our second hour at the car dealership when boredom quickly took over. I had gotten pretty deep into my copy of Slaughterhouse Five… and had enjoyed my share of free coffee, when I decided to grab my camera to see what I could find. It wasn’t long before the heat had me return and melt into a chair adjacent to the door. It was then that I realized the shot that I was looking for was right in front of me. The reflections and flecks of light coming off the Mini Countryman gave me a shot of inspiration. Light, shadows, and a sense of abstract weirdness. helped me get over my boredom and into a creative mindspace.

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.

Street Photography in Washington, DC

Street Photography, Travel, Travel Photography

It was our first visit to Washington, DC, via train, which was a great idea considering finding a parking spot is nearly impossible. Being that tourists and locals make for a steady crowd of people looking to spend any and all disposable income while feeding themselves with countless unhealthy spirits. Any food truck looking to profit from such weaknesses are wise to provide. Unfirtunately, for this photographer. The only opportunity to capture the hardworking self-made entrepreneurs is when they’re setting up, closing or extending their arm to deliver the goods. On this day, I honor this hard working man as he took a break to enjoy the view and enjoy the fresh air.

Time is Not on Our Side.

abstract, Finding your Zen, Mental Health

This image reminds me of how fragile time is. Life goes by so fast, and we rarely stop to appreciate the countless moments that have enhanced how we approached things. How we choose to treat people. Today, a brief encounter with a family at the hospital reminded me that intimate moments can remind you of the person you are and choose to be. Seize those moments and place them in a memory bank to be recalled when needed. Simply put, every now and then, we all need reminders of who we really are.

It’s in the Eyes

Expression, Portraiture, Studio Photography

While popping into my local camera store to pick up a print, I asked one of the salesmen what he thought made a great portrait. For whatever reason, he shared it with the rest of the staff. In what seemed to be a choreographed answer, they replied, “The eyes,” in unison. Here’s an image I feel represents their unanimous answer.

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.

Bring the Calm.

Finding your Zen, Landscape Photography, Mental Health, Natural Beauty, Travel, Travel Photography

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.