Shadow Framing

4/30/14

This photo was taken on Saturday April 19, 2014 at 9:32 AM
 
The  location was in Old Towne Alexandria, Virginia.
 
The "Take It!" was and easy decision to make.  We had passed by this enhanced image as we drove past the church upon which it is located on the street that is on the left.  At a speed of 35 or more  mph - it took a moment for my brain to catch up to what it was that I had seen and make the evaluation of its worth to warrant making the U turn to go back and make the attempt to photograph the coincidence that had made such an impression upon me.  
 
The After Take: I only had the chance to show this to a few people who shared with me the marvel of how the sun had cast a shadow from the light pole to bring a near perfect framing of the electric power meter on the side of this beautiful old church.  While the framing is only on the top and one side - it is striking in how strong the contrast is on the deep red color on the building.  
 
Every building has its history and thus much like people it all goes into making up its character.  It is not looks alone - but the composite.  To me - Houses of Worship have the most powerful of personalities for they have been witness and offered the atmosphere for us to let out our many emotions, through music, prayer, and shared voice.  Harmony comes in numerous forms for those who enter these hallowed places.
 
This church while being small, still has a powerful presence.  No matter what the season - it always seems to catch my eye and transmits an invitation that I believe is meant for everyone regardless of their faith, to come and visit for a while.  I plan to take up this invitation at some time soon.
 
Here is the hope you too have a second glance at a shadow placed almost perfectly by the wonder of nature.
 
Bruce

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Comments: 11
  • #1

    Gabe (Thursday, 01 May 2014 18:22)

    I looked at this one without really paying attention to the title and thought "wow that looks like it framed the electrical unit." Then I noticed the title hahaha.

  • #2

    Teri (Thursday, 01 May 2014 18:22)

    What a deep red. Bet that made it a bit easier to notice. Cool shot!

  • #3

    Sf1967 (Thursday, 01 May 2014 18:23)

    Great town, been there a couple times. So much history in that area

  • #4

    Jeff (Thursday, 01 May 2014 18:25)

    The fusebox is getting its moment in the sun. In all seriousness great photo, i envy your ability to catch these things.

  • #5

    Livin4love (Friday, 02 May 2014 17:27)

    I like the way the brain can process stuff after it has left your field of vision. What a great catch even if it took a moment to mentally process.

  • #6

    Jim (Friday, 02 May 2014 17:28)

    I wonder if it used to be a little red schoolhouse.

  • #7

    Sally (Friday, 02 May 2014 17:30)

    These are the things I have trouble noticing. I guess I get so focused on getting from a to b that I just zoom by things. Great picture and in a way a great message to stop and smell the roses from time to time.

  • #8

    Yuppie7 (Friday, 02 May 2014 17:34)

    I remember my mother had a book on old churches and I remember a few being from Alexandria. I really wonder if this was in there.

  • #9

    whutzzat (Saturday, 03 May 2014 00:17)

    Many thanks to everyone for your comments. This church is one of my favorite buildings for tree shadow overlays in the winter. Next winter when the now arriving leaves have departed - I will take a series of shadow shots at various times of day and share them on the site. In the meantime it is nice to see the shade arriving which adds a whole new texture to this welcoming structure. Best wishes to you all.

  • #10

    Yuppie7 (Wednesday, 07 May 2014)

    I will look forward to seeing those shots next year!

  • #11

    Teri (Wednesday, 07 May 2014 14:48)

    Best wishes to you too Bruce! Always a pleasure to see your next shot at capturing life.