Washington DC
May 18, 2018 07:52:40 #
A note about museums: Most museums are free to the public. I've been so used to this that I was actually surprised when I traveled to other areas of the country and found that one had to pay admission to one! Please note that I said "most." There are private museums (e.g., Newseum) that charge admission.
May 18, 2018 07:57:00 #
fergmark wrote:
The museums alone are a handful all by them selves. Architectural subjects everywhere. Linda's thoughts went immediately to the heat and humidity. She is telling it like it is. For that reason alone I would want to limit wondering around a lot. Museum hopping is what I would do. And plan for a lot of opertunitys for interior shots. I wouldn't encumber myself with a monopod. Nor would I carry a bunch of lenses.
I agree.. Two of our trips were when the cherry trees were blooming and I got some great shots all over the area. As for cameras and lenses, I had a Nikon D7100 and the wife had a Nikon D70s. We had an 18-70mm Nikkor lens on her D70s and I had a Nikkor 70-300mm lens on the D7100. If necessary, we swapped lenses. I did carry a 10-24mm lens and a 50mm lens in my pocket. Heat and humidity are an issue there. I've spent a lot of time in hot humid environments and I typically wear my old Vietnam era fatigue shirt (long sleeve but moisture absorbing and designed for tropical wear). It has lots of pockets and is perfect for carrying a couple of extra lenses. Besides, as a photographer, you should be used to being part pack mule. lol.
May 18, 2018 08:19:52 #
Night tour of the monuments is definitely a don't miss. Hop on hop off tours are great. If you can do a Segway tour, they are a blast, maybe not for photos though!
May 18, 2018 08:38:12 #
May 18, 2018 08:49:18 #
May 18, 2018 09:06:22 #
From a photographer's POV, the Newseum is a must. Go there when the weather is too hot to be walking around outside.
May 18, 2018 09:17:20 #
ashriverguy wrote:
From a photographer's POV, the Newseum is a must. Go there when the weather is too hot to be walking around outside.
Also the International Spy Museum was a lot better than I thought it was going to be. Was near my hotel on one of the trips and I took a chance.
http://www.spymuseum.org/
but it is pricy.
May 18, 2018 10:01:29 #
I've been a seasonal tour guide, mainly 8th graders, in DC for the last 14 years. If I could only get into one building, it would be one of the most beautiful in the World. That would be the Library of Congress - The Jefferson Building. Twice a year, Presidents Day and Columbus Day and also Memorial Day this year, they have an Open House from 10-3. You may walk onto the Main Reading Room floor and take all the photos you care, even with a tripod. Normally one needs to have their Library of Congress card to get on the floor, with no cameras. Make sure that your socks are on good because what you are going to see will knock them off! Union Station is also another beautiful building to visit.
If you have any allergies to marble, make sue that you're up on your meds!
If you have any allergies to marble, make sue that you're up on your meds!
May 18, 2018 10:10:48 #
[quote=bob417]I've been a seasonal tour guide, mainly 8th graders, in DC for the last 14 years. If I could only get into one building, it would be one of the most beautiful in the World. That would be the Library of Congress -
Maybe you can answer a question. There are only several free standing oval spiral staircases in existence and I believe it was here where there are two?
Maybe you can answer a question. There are only several free standing oval spiral staircases in existence and I believe it was here where there are two?
May 18, 2018 11:02:29 #
RJWagons
Loc: Lake Ridge Virginia
Many options mentioned already but there are some rules involving tripods - especially around the monuments. Check on line before you go. We've had a lot of rain this spring so everything is beautiful.
May 18, 2018 12:09:23 #
I wish there was a like button on comments. There are so many comments I agree with
May 18, 2018 12:23:34 #
Thanks everyone for all the great information! I’m a disabled vet but have no problem getting around. The humidity couldn’t be any worse then Nam.
I have 26 fellow Spectre’s on the wall and 2 mass grave sites to pay honor to at Arlington.
Wish I had more then 5 days but will make the most of it.
Thanks again.📸
I have 26 fellow Spectre’s on the wall and 2 mass grave sites to pay honor to at Arlington.
Wish I had more then 5 days but will make the most of it.
Thanks again.📸
May 18, 2018 12:35:06 #
Spectre wrote:
I’m headed to Washington DC the end of this month. I have never been there before so looking for suggestions. Weather, safety and photo ops I shouldn’t miss. I’ll be using my Nikon P520 with a few filters and monopod.Thanks for any suggestions!📸
I found the botanical garden building near the Capitol to be very worth while and is not a cliche of your visit and you will likely have unique photos from the same tired ones you see of DC over and over.
I can't remember the exact location but there is a historical canal or part of it that is interesting as well. Stumbled across it while wandering off the tourist beaten path.
May 18, 2018 13:01:16 #
I'd also suggest the National Cathedral. It has a tremendous location on a hill and of course, is a cathedral with all the beauty and architecture that goes with that.
Also, probably some cool (albeit challenging due to low light) architectural opportunities in the Metro (subway).
College campuses, Georgetown and American U have some cool buildings.
Agree on al the previous ideas as well.
Also, probably some cool (albeit challenging due to low light) architectural opportunities in the Metro (subway).
College campuses, Georgetown and American U have some cool buildings.
Agree on al the previous ideas as well.
May 18, 2018 13:01:43 #
Hi Spectre. I lived near DC for many years, and still visit the city often. Unlike some European cities where you would be really out of place with a DSLR around your neck or on a sling, in DC, cameras are very common. I have not heard of any issues with people trying to grab them and run, or be offended by the fact that you have one. Others have already given you lots of suggestions on where to go and what to do. If it's not already recommended, you could consider Old Town Alexandria, as well as Mount Vernon, a reasonable drive south along the river. Enjoy your time there! JimR
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