Tree Shadow Entrance

4/2/13 -123-

These photos were taken on December 18, 2012 at 10 am.

The location was at a side entrance to the museum of the American Indian, located on the National Mall in Washington DC.

The "Take It!" came when driving by this wonderful building at a time of day when the sun was just right to produce this ever so distinctive shadow effect. I drive by this location many times a month and never had I seen this shadow placement so well put before. It was one of those moments where I drove by it, took in the view and had to take a moment for it to register as to what I was seeing. All of this took a moment and actually called for me to stop and back up to find a parking place. Fortunately it was early enough to have a spot for my car available.

I took one set of shots from the sidewalk, placing the shadow producing tree on the left, and another with it on the right. It is rather amazing to me how different each location shows up in the photos.

The After Take: All of those who have viewed these shots like them. It never ceases to amaze me how frequently the first question asked is, "Where was this taken?" Somehow, having established the where allows one to go on to accomodating more details. I asked which view they liked best and found it was almost a tie.

This building has a strong attraction for me. It took a long time to be built, and with it we honor this very important part of our population and their heritage.

The photo adds a new impact to this entrance. Call it organic overlay or supplement if you will. I do not know the type of tree that is casting this shadow, but one could easily be tempted to use this to name the entrance. For example, "The Oak Entrance," and all who entered it when the shadow was in place would know exactly why it was called that.

Time of day means so much when taking pictures. There are quotes about the "Golden Hour" just after sun rise and just before sun set. While these times offer a certain sun light intensity, I have found every time of day can offer something special. It all depends on what and how you look at the subject.

Here is hoping you are lucky enough to see something in a new way just because you look at it at a different time.

All my very best,

Bruce