Tag: Washington DC

Ongoing Project and Unexpected Opportunities

Travel, Travel Photography

After hitting a pothole sure to earn it credits to eventually rise to the ranks of sinkhole. My flat tire and damage to the car’s steering column. My wife and I have been forced into utilizing the nearby metro train. Located just a half mile down the road. It’s done wonders getting us to and fro without incident. As I’ve previously mentioned my ongoing project photographing trains and many of the artful architecture of the stations here. Over the weekend, we took the train to DC. It was then that I took the opportunity to take my project inside to focus of the travellers. Of the images taken along the ride. This one resonated with me the most. As the subject looked out towards the trains map to see how many stops there were before reaching her destination. As I become more comfortable capturing strangers. This image stands out more than the rest.

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.

Along the Way.

Downtown, Street Photography, Travel, Travel Photography

While heading to Georgetown Waterfront Park on the Potomac River. I stopped to take this image, as I imagined the potential for moody shadows and depth. There were two birds, one on each side of the columns, that divided the pathway. While I managed to take several images that captured the mood I was going for. The one below, with the bird stood out to me.

Dog Tag Bakery. Georgetown, DC

Uncategorized

After giving up on finding parking near the Smithsonian in Washington, DC. We went to plan B and headed to nearby Georgetown. Stopping in at Dog Tag Bakery for some ice coffee and a remarkable frittata. As we chilled out and took our time cooling off. We noticed an impreesive display of dog tags hanging above our adjacent table. I quickly grabbed my camera and found a good angle that would best highlight its importance. The overall experience at Dog Tag was great. A warm and relaxed vibe with above and beyond service, food, and support for veterans. Personally, I can’t wait to get back. Below is an image I captured while wondering if anyone counted how many dog tags were on display.

Travel, Travel Photography. DC, Washington DC, Georgetown, Dog Tag Bakery, Dog Tags, Black & White,

A Trip Through History

Art, Canon R6 Mark II Mirrorless, Finding your Zen, Travel, Travel Photography

As the weather gets warmer and Spring continues to develop. I hope to take full advantage of the history, culture and museums of the Washington DC area. Last week signaled somewhat of a start to this as we experienced the somewhat heartbreaking exhibits within the Smithsonian Museum of African History and Culture. As someone who became addicted to history at a very young age. I was always aware that our teachers and history books were lying to us, or at the very least, telling us less than half truths. We learned more in out two plus hours there than we were taught our entire life. I did my best ro be respectful and keep my piture taking to a minimum. I took the image on the right as we headed downstairs the the eventual exit. I tend to appreciate the images that fall on the dramatic side when it comes to shade and lighting.

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.

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.

Why We Print.

Digital Printing, Finding your Zen, Marketing, Promotional, Sailing

After picking up my 11X14 print from the camera store/lab we use in Arlington. My wife asked if I would frame it and where I wanted to hang it. I replied “I don’t plan on framing or hanging it.” Puzzled, she looked at me and asked, “Then why did you print it?” That is a good question. One that I gave numerous reasons for. One that I asked myself. Having grown up in the film camera age and developed every role we ever shot, countless and often terrible images ended up in photo albums or crowded boxes in bedroom closets. I look back and wonder. Was any of it worth the money spent or space occupied?

These days, I take thousands of pictures but rarely print any. But when I do, I’m rewarded as I see the differences or the details between the image I see on the computer and the print I can touch and avoid getting my fingerprints on. Today was one of those days when I immediately saw the vast difference in the quality of a quality printed image. It both inspires me and gives me hope that someday I’ll get my shit together and sell my work at a more consistent rate.

My First Subway Ride to Washington DC.

Street Photography, Travel, Travel Photography, Uncategorized

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.