Late last year, a thick foggy morning motivated me to get out of the house. Landscape or nature photography is not my forte. However, a foggy Great Falls has been on my list to shoot for a while. Unlike other areas, we generally do not have very foggy days often. On this occasion, the warm morning temperature created a thick inversion over the entire northern Virginia area. So, I got in my car and looked for a place to make some photos.
When I arrived at Great Falls Park, I knew that this would be a perfect morning for photos. Walking through the parking lot, and the park trails, the fog was still hanging in the air. I was excited about getting to the edge of the falls however, the walk through the park was just as inspiring.
Finally arriving at the edge of the falls, I propped my camera on a tripod. Though it was not very bright with the thick fog and early morning light, I put on an ND filter. This smoothed out the motion of the water, and made for some nice prints later!
When the season start to change from Summer to Fall in northern Virginia, we are so lucky to have some beautiful light outside to make photos. These two asked me to make some engagement photos prior to their wedding next summer. With the sun going down earlier in the day, and the weather being a little milder, it was a perfect time to have a nice portrait session. Green Spring Park in Annandale, VA is a beautiful backdrop for photos. There is a lots of green areas, flowers, as well as structures that are perfect settings for all kinds of photos.
The 18th century historic home has beautiful red bricks and green shutters that are looks like printed backgrounds that photographers roll out in studios. Having the real thing to work with is much better! Although I was disappointed that a very large tree at the back of the house did not survive the last winter. But even the stump makes a great seat!
If you have any reason to get some family or other portraits, please let me know! It is very close to the holidays, a great time to update family photos. I know I will be making a lot of new ones this year.
Theodore Roosevelt Island is a serene spot right in the middle of everything. Just a footbridge across from Arlington, Virginia, this island sits in the Potomac River making it a part of Washington, DC. From the island, you can get views over the river to the tall office buildings in Rosslyn, Virginia. As can be seen people are in these tall buildings have a great view of the capital city. Obviously, This area does not have the same height restrictions as DC!
The parking lot is just off the George Washington Memorial Parkway, and the bike trail which follows it. In that case, it makes it a popular spot for visitors to rest and explore along the way. Many college students attending the nearby universities can be seen on the trails. Moreover, they are in the water enjoying paddle boarding, and boating in the busy waterways surrounding the island.
There were a few markers along the trails marking where a 19th century mansion once stood. Additionally, there are a few describing some of the history and nature that are present there. In the middle, is a memorial to the 26th President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt. There are canals, two large fountains, and a 17-foot statue of the president at the center. Along the edges are monolithic cement blocks with some of his more famous and profound quotes inscribed.
It is a nice place to rest as you traverse the island trails. The lower trails will follow the river into a marshy, swampy area. Other trails will take you a little higher in elevation. In almost every section, you can have views of the surrounding areas of Georgetown, and Rosslyn. It is not too challenging, and will give you some unique views of the city that are not as popular, but still accessible and beautiful!
