Tag: Service

The Joy of Printing

Art, Beauty, Comparison, Digital Printing, Enlargements, Industrial Photography, Landscape Photography

After a long day of MRIs and X-rays at Baltimore’s John Hopkins University, some lackluster service at a local restaurant, and worse, the unusual bumper to bumper traffic while returning to Virginia. I stopped at New Arlington’s District Camera to pick up several images I had sent in for printing. During the three or so years I’ve been in VA. I’ve depended almost entirely on the camera stores service for all my photography needs. The attention to customer service, detail and quality has been unrivaled since day one.

Upon arriving home, I more carefully, then usual, opened the envelope to view my prints. Thus returning me to the joy associated printing my images. The difference between seeing something on a computer screen and the absolute thrill of holding something in your hands. It’s magic. The colors, detail and depth in Black and white prints . It returns you to the lost beauty that photography always offered. So going forward, I urge you and myself to find a reliable lab, darkroom and/or printer to print your favorite images. I also suggest finding a place to display and share them with others.

Always Tip Your Waitress

Anecdote, Storytelling, Street Photography, Travel

I fully admit to being a self deprecating prick lately. With my journey being one with it’s share of bumps. I sometimes wonder if overcoming these challenges make me strong or just some sort of punching bag for the Gods. Last weekend we visited Annapolis for the first time in a year and the second overall. It was a busy day in the downtown area as a boat show had the tourists arriving in droves.

Our goal was simple. Return to the landmark diner Chick and Ruths at 165 Main St, Annapolis, MD 21401As to experience that New York City diner atmosphere ad further explore the incredible menu. After a timely wait near the crowded door, we wer seated. As our waitress approached us with her pen and pad…..She welcomed us, saying “Wow. It’s been a long time.” “The last time you were here you had a walker. This time you’ve got that heavy camera bag. Look at you.”
Both my wife and me were shocked. We’d only been to the diner once and it was a year ago. Yet she remembered us as if we were regulars. Aside from being impressed with the womans memory and great service. My wife noted how far I’ve come. It was an incredibly rewarding exchange and one that should help me break out of this self depricating dick malaise. In the end, I’m kind of saying, “Don’t be me.” Give yourself a break. Cut yourself some slack, and plan a trip to Annapolis to experience Chick an Ruths.