Let yourself be transported to the dreamy world of sakura, the flowering cherry tree, as you embark on a photographic journey to one of the most iconic sights in the world.
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My first ever e-magazine includes 80 pages of photos that span more than a decade photography adventures here in Washington, DC.
From well-known Tidal Basin icons like the Jefferson Memorial, to little-known memorials and statues tucked away and shaded by the pink and white blooms, the photos I’ve selected will take you on a stunning tour of the heart of the festival, sprinkled with history and haiku.
Interested in a print copy? Send me an email! RL (at) RLincoln (dot) com
Our day begins with a pre-dawn promenade meandering through darkened cherry blossom trees toward the Tidal Basin. The creamy marble monuments glow against the night sky. Everything is quiet but for the soft click as my long exposure comes to an end. As we reach the heart of the blossoms, the sky is turning purple. The western bank of the Tidal Basin is unencumbered with railings and roadblocks, perfect for hanami, the Japanese tradition of enjoying the transient beauty of flowers.
The rising sun peeks over distant buildings, illuminating the pillowy clusters one by one, a subtle prelude to the golden light soon to flood the twisted branches reaching out over the water. The Tidal Basin at this hour mirrors the blue sky, a perfect coming together of Earth with the heavens.
The mid-day sun takes us around the basin, birds and squirrels showing us the way to iconic landmarks. A sudden breeze creates a rain shower of pale pink petals. In this bright light we can easily see the tiny clusters of blossoms sprouting from the tree roots and trunks, providing a little display of their own.
At dusk, we’ll watch the last orange clouds fade away as the street lamps begin to light up. Brilliant pink blossoms now become creamy white against the twilight sky. The bustling crowds of late afternoon have all gone home. The Tidal Basin is quiet once again.
I’m thrilled to share the best cherry blossom photographs I’ve taken over the past 12 years. I hope you enjoy viewing these images as much as I enjoyed making them!
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