Great Maryland (and neighbors) Photo Expedition [Archive]

Scottes

12th of December 2005 (Mon), 12:30

G...but GCPE's already been taken. GMPE it is.
Close, but we never had enough people to qualify as an expedition, so it's always been the Great Canadian Photo Shoot. I think we just had GCPS 6, but out of the entire crew only PacAce can count that high and he's not telling.

But GMPE is probably better - Ian's easily confused, and GCPE might be close enough to have him show up at your door looking for Elk.

I'll have to debate about joining you. I was in DC once and I'm pretty sure that I could spend a month there if I had a camera. Just the thought of the possible panoramics makes me drool. And the Zoo.... And the Smithsonian...

hickory

12th of December 2005 (Mon), 12:53

I could get there in about 6 hours. I might be interested...

formula4speed

12th of December 2005 (Mon), 15:56

I'd be interested when you guys figure out when and where.

Todd Louis Green

12th of December 2005 (Mon), 16:17

I'm definitely in for anywhere in MD or VA; probably count me out if it's going to be in DC.

Jon

12th of December 2005 (Mon), 19:44

I'll also toss in Huntley Meadows in Alexandria (VA) and the Blackwater NWR on the Eastern Shore as possibles.

Could also think about Chestertown and/or St Michaels. They'd be winter possibilities.

C&O Canal/Potomac River or Sugarloaf?

CoolToolGuy

12th of December 2005 (Mon), 21:48

Winter will be cold, and I can do that, but how about the B&O Railroad Museum?

http://www.borail.org/

Just a thought.

Have Fun,

CoolToolGuy

13th of December 2005 (Tue), 07:22

Just to follow on with the B&O Museum idea:

Minus - no planned wildlife included. There may be the occasional duck or goose, and you might see a deer or fox or something on the (included) train ride.
Plus - inside displays as well as outside displays
Plus - big subjects to shoot (train cars, architecture) as well as small subjects (artifacts, people, train details)
Plus - lots of room so we won't be constantly bumping into one another
Plus - January may be their slow time after the big Christmas display - small crowds
Plus - side trips could include the Inner Harbor, the National Aquarium and their new Australian Outback exhibit, othersEnd of propaganda/coercion.

Have Fun,

Jon

13th of December 2005 (Tue), 08:24

CoolToolGuy

13th of December 2005 (Tue), 09:53

Now there's an idea - maybe we could lure Belmondo along for the occasion. There's also (about an hour between them) the Trolley Museum (http://www.dctrolley.org/) in Wheaton Regional Park. Or some of the other Baltimore attractions (Zoo, Aquarium, Constellation).

I read something recently in the Morning Fishwrap about the Trolley Museum and how they just recovered from a flood or something. Interesting. Not to take away from that, but Baltimore has one as well:

http://www.baltimorestreetcar.org/

The only concern is Wheaton to Baltimore is more like an all-day or weekend affair. The Baltimore Streetcar Museum is a little closer, but still requires a drive through town.

The Aquarium is making a big splash (sorry) about their new Australian 'Wild Extremes' wing that opens this week (Dec. 16). It is a permanent new exhibit that includes a 35-foot waterfall and some impressive stats:

http://www.aqua.org/australia.html

64,500 square feet
120 feet high at the tallest point
1 hand-knotted metal screen, measuring 15,000+ square feet, to keep the birds, bats and free-roaming lizards safely inside the exhibit
120+ pilings, driven 40 feet into the harbor, support the extra weight of the new building
150+ plants, all indigenous to Australia
1,000 gallons a minute will tumble over the 35-foot waterfall
1,800 Australian animals
6,000 cubic yards of concrete – more than the capacity of the Marine Mammal Pavilion’s dolphin pool
33,000 square feet of crystal clear, low-iron float glass in the walls and roof
60,000 gallons of freshwater will circulate in the seven Australian-themed exhibitsOur Aussie and Kiwi friends may be chuckling to themselves because they get to see this for real, but for some of us this may be as close as we get.

Even without the Australia exhibit, the Aquarium can be a good photo trip (as long as the crowds are thin). They have a Rainforest section with some intersting birds, reptiles, and such.

Let me come back to earth and say that there could be some good opportunities up here in Charm City.

Have Fun,

PacAce

13th of December 2005 (Tue), 12:43

Todd Louis Green

13th of December 2005 (Tue), 12:49

Australian Outback exhibit? Does that mean KANGAROOS? :D

I was hoping for steak ...

b16pwrdej1

13th of December 2005 (Tue), 14:09

I will definately be interested if it's during a time when I dont have college or can get away for a day or two.

CoolToolGuy

13th of December 2005 (Tue), 18:59

Australian Outback exhibit? Does that mean KANGAROOS? :D

I don't know - the building is big, but there is limited hopping and grazing room. It looks like they have one example of the smallest species of wallaby to take around to local schools, but it won't be on display in the exhibit. They say they have these animals:

http://www.aqua.org/animalencounters.html

But I'll bet they have a plush miniature of one in the gift shop!

Have Fun,

CoolToolGuy

13th of December 2005 (Tue), 19:03

I was hoping for steak ...

. . .and some coconut shrimp, perhaps? Or a Bloomin' Onion?

Have Fun,

Jon

14th of December 2005 (Wed), 11:45

I've added a poll, based on what's been proposed to date. Multiple votes allowed; I don't know if we'll be able to re-open it for voting if anyone proposeds other options. Please vote for anything you might be interested in, regardless of where it may be. Location and/or themes provided where not obvious.

CoolToolGuy

14th of December 2005 (Wed), 12:17

I did some research on the Aquarium/Train Museum:

Saturday - Both are open from 10-5
Sunday - The Train Museum is 11-4, the Aquarium is 10-5

Admission - both have group rates, but there may be restrictions.

Aquarium -$21.95 normal admission - Your group of 15 or more must reserve in advance to receive discounts and express entry into the building.Group Rates
Save money when you come as a group:
Adults: $16.00
Seniors (ages 60 and up): $13.25
Students (ages 12 to 18): $10.75
Children (ages 3 to 11): $8.75
Train Museum - $14.00 normal admission - Bring your group of 20 or more people to the Museum and receive discounted admission. Group boxed lunches and rental facilities are also available. All group reservations must be made two weeks in advance. Adult / Senior Groups
$10 per person
Discount is offered to groups of 20 or more adults or seniors. Bus driver receives complimentary admission.
No train rides at the Train Museum in January. :cry:

More as I get time.

Have Fun,

Formulated_One

17th of December 2005 (Sat), 12:43

I know I am still a newbie here, but lived between Baltimore and Washington for 30yrs..I wasn't really into photography back then, but I actually like Baltimore better than DC..

The good thing with Baltimore is if you are down at the Inner Harbor, you can go just about anyplace within 15-20mins..For people comming from out of town, there are plenty of hotels just off the Baltimore Beltway, withing 10-15mins from Baltimore..
The architecture is great, alot of old buildings mixed in with alot of newer stuff..Alot of urban scenery, and also alot of up-scale city areas too..

Here is a list of some of the things I know of in Baltimore, and surrounding areas:
1 - USS Constellation
2 - All of the Inner Harbor
3 - Baltimore Aquarium, and Science Center, B&0 Musuem
4 - Fort McHenry, and Fedral Hill
5 - South Baltimore, Little Italy, and the rest of Downtown Baltimore
6 - Oriole Park at Camden Yards, the Ravens Stadium, Babe Ruth House
7 - Baltimore Zoo
8 - The Red-Light District (although I wouldn't really recommend that)

And I am sure there are alot more that I have not listed..Maybe some other members can give some other good reasons for Baltimore..
In my opinion D.C. is just over-rated..Everything that is down there has been photographed over and over again..Also to go from place to place you would almost have to take the subway..For the people comming from out of town it is hard to find a decent hotel close enough to D.C, and if you do its expensive..

These are just my opinions, so I hope I didn't offend anyone from the D.C. area..Once again I lived between both, and both are very beautiful places to be, I just feel Baltimore has a lot more to offer..

I can also post more information on these attractions if needed..!!!

Jon

20th of December 2005 (Tue), 14:51

Looks like Charm City's the current favourite. The only listed DC site is the NationalZoo - there's parking there. Most of the rest of the DC area locations are car friendly.

CyberDyneSystems

20th of December 2005 (Tue), 14:57

DC Monuments and Infra Red... hmmmm....

What time frame are you considering?

Jon

20th of December 2005 (Tue), 15:00

Sometime after the new year - sorta depends on when people are interested,and noone's yet really offered a "not . . . " date. I don't know how the locals would feel about around Cherry Blossom time with all the swarms of tourists that descend upon the Mall,Tidal Basin, and most other green,tree-covered areas then.

CoolToolGuy

20th of December 2005 (Tue), 16:58

Being a hometown boy makes me a bit biased to Baltimore, but one thing to point out is that the admission fees for most of the Baltimore attractions mentioned are a significant factor to consider.

Parking at the B&O Museum is free, but any parking in and around the Inner Harbor will be $10 or more per car. Walking from the B&O Museum to the Inner Harbor is possible (its on the same street), but it is almost a mile. Not trying to dissuade, just inform. I have some ideas how to minimize parking fees that we can discuss if it gets that far.

I like D.C. a lot, but outdoors in the winter is significant, too.

A 'Spring Photo Fling' sounds like a great idea for D.C. - Cherry blossoms, the Mall, Air & Space Museum, other Smithsonian venues, other ideas mentioned above.

I'm out for 1/14 through 1/22, but I can make it other weekends.

Another 2 cents worth.

Jon

21st of December 2005 (Wed), 14:29

Early March, maybe? We're about due for another March blizzard :{)#

arpi

27th of December 2005 (Tue), 20:22

CoolToolGuy

28th of December 2005 (Wed), 08:23

FYI: there is a dollar day weekend on January 7 and 8 (2006). the fees to get into the aquarium, B&O train museum are $1 each. you can usually find free parking on Little Italy and then walk to the aquarium. there is plenty of free parking around B&O.

http://www.bop.org/

cheers

Thanks for the link, arpi :)

This is a bit of short notice, but if there is enough interest, I can do a little leg work to try and organize something.

The good news - cost. This special would lower the cost quite a bit. Saturday would probably be the best day, as one of the attractions is open an hour later, which gives us more time.

More good news - The 3 special $1 offers each make for some interesting shots. The 'Top of The World' is best (obviously) with a slightly overcast, clear day. The B&O Museum and Aquarium are both on the short list, and make for great photography. The Aquarium and the observation deck are about 1 block from each other, and the B&O Museum is about 1 mile away, on the same street.

Potential good news - After dark, the Inner Harbor can be a nice place to be - dinner, some good night shots, whatever.

Potential bad news - If this offer is popular, the attractions could be crowded, and we all know what that means to photo opportunities.

I think I have a way to minimize the parking fees, too.

Any interested parties, post here or send me a PM.

Have Fun,

Wrench

28th of December 2005 (Wed), 13:50

Hi all, just found this thread....I'm a little late :(

If plans are made to go to the inner harbor, the best way to get there is to ride the light rail into the city to avoid parking fees and traffic. All of the attractions mentioned are within a couple blocks of a train stop. I think a day pass for the train is around $3.50 and parking is free at the stops. We could all meet at one station and ride in or we could all ride in and meet somewhere in the city.

There is a ferry from the inner harbor to Ft.Mchenry that is worth a trip. Federal hill is a great vantage point to take pictures of the skyline and it's reflection in the harbor. Edgar Allen Poes grave is a nice place to visit, it's under a building ( I believe it's his home) in a small cemetary in downtown and a chance for some neat pictures. Little italy is great for those urban type photos, but is kinda dead in the winter. Canton has lots of little hidden away bars and such that can be fun.

CoolToolGuy

28th of December 2005 (Wed), 14:13

For the out-of-towners (given that we decide on the B&O Museum) I was thinking that we meet there first thing (they open at 10:00) and park the cars there (free). About mid-day we take as many as we can in the fewest number of vehicles to the Inner Harbor and they leave their cars at B&O. Then go back to B&O just before they close (5:00 I think) and get the cars. Just a thought. . .Have Fun,

Jon

28th of December 2005 (Wed), 14:23

That dollar day sounds interesting - who else's up for it? Please post here so we can get a good handle on it.

Wrench

28th of December 2005 (Wed), 16:42

I'm game.

CoolToolGuy

28th of December 2005 (Wed), 17:50

I was nosing around a little, and I found some things to note:

B&O Museum - Photographs are permitted for personal use only and are not to be published anywhere (including personal web sites) without the expressed written consent of the Museum. Professional photography is strictly prohibited without the written permission of the Chief or Senior Curators.
If you're interested in ships and such, there is the Baltimore Maritime Museum: http://www.baltomaritimemuseum.org/index.html They have a WWII submarine, a Coast Guard Cutter, a Lightship, and a Lighthouse that you can tour. They each have some interesting facts: the Cutter is the last ship afloat from the Pearl Harbor invasion; the submarine sank the last 2 enemy ships of WWII; etc. These are all in the Inner Harbor, close to the Aquarium/World Trade Center.
I didn't see any photo restrictions for the Aquarium.
Between the B&O Museum and the Aquarium are Camden Yards and the Babe Ruth Birthplace & Museum: http://www.baberuthmuseum.com/ if you're into sports.
Fort McHenry can be reached from the Inner Harbor by Water Taxi: http://www.nps.gov/fomc
The Museum of Dentistry is only a short walk from the B&O Museum: http://www.dentalmuseum.org/ :lol:
The USS Constellation is in the Inner Harbor - it is the last Civil War era warship still afloat: http://www.constellation.org/All of the above would be too much for one day, but there is plenty to see and shoot.

The Inner Harbor has a lot of restaurants - good as well as mediocre: http://www.baltimore.org/visitors/v_eatdrink_rest_results.jsp?q=&scat=all&neighborhood=Inner%20Harbor&startListing=0

All of the choices led me to an idea - we all meet somewhere in the morning, and go from there. If we have a good turnout, we arrange to meet at one of the restaurants and shoot the breeze about what we shot, and review/critique them if possible. I'm not married to that idea, just throwing it out.

Hope I didn't get carried away. . .

Have Fun,

Wrench

28th of December 2005 (Wed), 17:58

Everyone could meet at a central location, say near the convention center or the amphitheater at the inner harbor, then split into two groups. One that wants to go in the way of the Railroad Museum, and the others to the aquarium. Then regroup to tour the harbor, Ft.Mchenry, then dinner.

arpi

28th of December 2005 (Wed), 18:35

I will be there.

Why don't we meet at the coffee shop of Barns&Nobles (starbucks) which is right in front of the aquarium? it is warm and there is coffee too. usually the parking fees are about $8 a day, which it may make sense on a crowded Saturday. I would recommend going first to the aquarium since it may get crowded. Is 9:30am a good time?

Wrench

28th of December 2005 (Wed), 19:28

Sounds like a good meeting place. The B&O museum is in walking distance too. Now we need a day.

CoolToolGuy

29th of December 2005 (Thu), 08:07

Sounds like a good meeting place. The B&O museum is in walking distance too. Now we need a day.

The B&O Museum is open until 5:00 on Saturday, but only until 4:00 on Sunday. It opens later on Sunday as well. I'm thinking Saturday, Jan. 7

My thoughts for the out-of-towners were that they can get free parking at the B&O Museum - but they would have to get back there by closing time. If they are not adverse to paying for parking (since the admission prices are reduced), meeting somewhere in the Inner Harbor is a great idea. If dinner is part of the schedule (a great idea in my mind), then it might be better to cough up the parking fee and forget about the shuttling back and forth.

The aquarium opens at 10:00, and early is better, but the crowds are so large that when you buy your ticket they give you a time when you can enter. If we figure out how many, and someone gets down there early to buy the tickets, it could be a win to get an early (before 10:30) entry time. Else, we will spend a lot of time waiting - in line or otherwise. That said, early morning at the Inner Harbor can produce some nice shots, with the marina, the Constellation, boats coming in & out (not too many in January though), and other morning sights.

So, back to the meet-up. I think meeting in the morning (9:00 or so) works. Meeting (and waiting for the meet-up) inside in January is a great idea. Barnes & Noble opens at 8:00. They are in the Power Plant (where the Hard Rock Cafe - Giant guitar on the smokestack - & ESPNZone are), so they are not hard to find.

I had this idea of finding a restaurant for dinner that has a room with one or more TVs that we can use to review/critique the day's shots. I have a Sandisk device that displays on a TV from a memory card. It might be a little late to arrange that, but its worth a try.

My latest 2 cents.

Have Fun,

SuzyView

29th of December 2005 (Thu), 08:13

I think I am in. I'm in Manassas, but will try my best. Can't wait. I haven't come into the talk about this because I'm just clueless about taking expeditions. Wow, I can't wait!

SuzyView
Sat. are okay, not Sun.

Wrench

29th of December 2005 (Thu), 11:01

I could get to the aquarium early to buy the tickets before they open if need be. Meeting at the bookstore inside the power plant sounds like a great idea.

spencer87

29th of December 2005 (Thu), 11:12

i would definitely be interested! please post when you finalize the details. I know I probably wouldnt be able to do Saturday the 7th because of work, but if the date changes I would loved to participate.

S

Jon

29th of December 2005 (Thu), 11:21

Either day works for me. Saturday sounds the better one from the operating hours on the train museum.

CoolToolGuy

29th of December 2005 (Thu), 11:58

I have emailed the aquarium and the B&O Museum to find out how to make this as smooth as it can be. I'll let y'all know when (and if) I hear anything.

The best I got so far from the aquarium is that the ticket office opens at 10:00. If you want an early ticket, stand in line. I'm trying to get some more details.

Have Fun,

CoolToolGuy

29th of December 2005 (Thu), 15:22

I just spoke with the curator of the B&O Museum, and broke the ice. It was very cordial and I think it helps us. What he (and I) said:

They are happy to have us, and they don't want to stifle us - but they don't want anyone making money from images taken at the Museum without their express written permission. More on that below.
They want us to be discrete, especially on a day they expect to be crowded (ouch, I was hoping this wouldn't be a big day, being in January). He did not rule out tripods and monopods, but mentioned that we are not to interfere with the general public's access and views. I noted that we are familiar with such policies and will certainly not get in the way.
He offered to meet with the group when we get there and go over the policies. I didn't commit to a time (since we don't know yet), but said we may contact them when we know.
Each photographer must get permission to post images anywhere, including the POTN Web site or your own hosting site. He mentioned that the permission is not hard to do, but it must be given. They have a form to fill out.
All posted images must include attribution to the Museum. You can get the details when you go for the permission.
Any commercial use requires a different sort of permission from them. Again, you'll have to contact them about that.
We have full roam of the public areas. I mentioned that we were not looking for special access.
Sounds reasonable to me.Stay tuned. . .

Have Fun,

Todd Louis Green

29th of December 2005 (Thu), 18:23

I'll be out of town next weekend so I can't make those dates. Sounds like you guys have some really great things lined up, though, which means there will no doubt be another Maryland meeting in the near future. :)

Have a great time and I look forward to seeing your pics. Stay safe!

SuzyView

29th of December 2005 (Thu), 18:30

Thanks for all the leg work. You are amazing CTG.

SuzyView

Wrench

29th of December 2005 (Thu), 21:11

Want to start a running list of who plans on coming?

CoolToolGuy

29th of December 2005 (Thu), 21:56

Want to start a running list of who plans on coming?

Count me in - I'm thinking I'll get down there early (7:30, maybe) to see if there are any great sunrise shots demanding to be taken.

Unless we get some tips from the Aquarium, we might need to have a place at the head of the line to get in early. Depending on how early we have to get in line, perhaps we can have some folks take turns so one poor slob doesn't freeze. The rest of us can stay warm in Starbucks and laugh at the place-keeper until its our turn to be the poor slob. :lol:

If we go to the B&O Museum later, I don't think we will have the same wait issue as the Aquarium. We may have a line to deal with, but its much more open there than at the Aquarium, so it can take more people.

There are boats to Fort McHenry, but its a little unclear whether they run in the winter. I'll give Fort McHenry a call to see what I can find out.

I think things are starting to come together - so let's see some participants!

Geez, just get on I-95 and get to Baltimore! (If you plan it, they will come)

Have Fun,

Jon

30th of December 2005 (Fri), 17:55

Unless there's 3 or more inches of snow on the ground, I'll be there. If there's snow, the cross-country skis come out. A blizzard is a terrible thing to waste, and with Rock Creek Park across the street, I must strike while the snow is pure, before all the walkers have stomped it all into a mess. Of course, the 10-day forecast, as of now, looks like that ain't gonna happen. Looks like sunny & 40 on Saturday. Cloudy on Sunday, though.

SuzyView

30th of December 2005 (Fri), 18:15

Decide where and when and I can see what I can do. I have a Hybrid, won't even cost me much to get there. ;) I just have to ask my husband to part with it, even though it's my car.

SuzyView

CoolToolGuy

30th of December 2005 (Fri), 19:18

Decide where and when and I can see what I can do. I have a Hybrid, won't even cost me much to get there. ;) I just have to ask my husband to part with it, even though it's my car.

SuzyView

So far, the most popular meeting place and time idea is between 9:00 & 9:30 in the Starbucks that is in Barnes & Noble at the Power Plant in the Inner Harbor. It is on E. Pratt St., and the building is an old power plant with tall smokestacks. On the side of the building is a giant guitar for the Hard Rock Cafe, and also in the building is the ESPNZone, with a giant sign to match. Here's a link to the Barnes & Noble store locator - it can give you driving directions:
http://storelocator.barnesandnoble.com/storedetail.do?store=2881

Unless someone comes up with a better place to meet, this is it - Speak Now or Forever Hold Your Peace!

There are several parking lots and garages in the immediate vicinity. My favorite option is in the Renaissance Harborplace Hotel. It is right across the street from Harborplace, and about one block from the Power Plant. This link will give you driving directions:
http://marriott.com/property/mapandnearbyairports/drivingdirections.mi?marshaCode=bwish&WT_Ref=mi_left

Have Fun,

CoolToolGuy

30th of December 2005 (Fri), 19:40

A new addition for the day - Canon promotional trinkets! I only have a few at this point, and they come to us from Cooper's Camera Mart: http://www.cameramart.com/ They also gave me some coupon books good for discounts at their two stores.

I tried to get some stuff from Penn Camera, but its not looking good. They handle that sort of thing from the corporate office in DC, and time is a little tight. If anyone closer to DC wants to give it a go, let me know and I'll give you the contact info.

So sign up, line up, and charge up your batteries!

Have Fun,

SuzyView

30th of December 2005 (Fri), 19:51

Did you decide a date. I looked above but didn't get a final.

SuzyView

CoolToolGuy

30th of December 2005 (Fri), 20:16

Did you decide a date. I looked above but didn't get a final.

SuzyView

Saturday, January 7.

We have been putting out information piecemeal, but I will put it all together in one post early next week. I will go ahead with what has been posted lately in this thread unless I hear major objections.

Have Fun,

Wrench

30th of December 2005 (Fri), 21:04

So are we planning on splitting the group to go to B&O and the Aquarium then meeting back up for a trip to the Fort, or are we going to try to do all three as one group? I think two of the three sub-trips would be do-able for a day, but not three.

I can be there a little early to pick up tickets. I don't think we'll have to wait in line, but someone needs to be there as soon as the windo opens.

Also, everyone please post up your real names so we're not asking strangers if their name is "SuzyView" or "CoolToolGuy" :p . I am Tony, can't miss me. I'm tall and very, very skinny. Probably will have a hat on......and a camera ;)

CoolToolGuy

30th of December 2005 (Fri), 21:38

My vote is that we meet at Starbucks and group up as desired. Like you, I don't think the Aquarium, Fort McHenry, and the B&O can be realistically done in one day. My personal choice would be to go through the Aquarium first, then decide on the Top of The World based on the weather, and then go to the B&O. Then return to the Inner Harbor for dinner. If some want to go to Fort McHenry, they will probably have enough time to do either of the others casually, or have a little extra time for something else.

I sent an email to Fort McHenry asking if the boats are running and if not, what transportation is available overland from the Inner Harbor. The phone call I made was useless, and I haven't yet got a reply to the email. I know how to get there by car, but out-of-towners might not find it as easily.

We can chat about itineraries at Starbucks, but I'd be glad to try and work them out here ahead of time so we don't get too bogged down at Starbucks. My thinking is if you want to do the Aquarium, your best bet at getting unobstructed views is to go in first thing in the morning. Once it gets going, it will probably be filled with people until it closes. I have some techniques to get some shots before the people get there - I'll put them in a separate post to reduce the confusion.

OBTW, I'm Rick, and I'll be wearing my POTN hat. I'm 5'10", chunky, caucasian, with a moustache.

Have Fun,

Wrench

30th of December 2005 (Fri), 21:53

Sounds good to me. So far we have:

Myself
CoolToolGuy
SuzyVies
Arpi
Jon
????

Meeting at 9:30 on the 7th at the Starbucks inside the Power Plant, then splitting up depending on who wants to go where.

CoolToolGuy

30th of December 2005 (Fri), 23:12

Aquarium Attack Planning :lol:

Note: All of the grayed- out information that was in this particular post is outdated :oops: - I will post the current info in a post below - Sorry for the confusion
There are 4 large areas to get open shots - most of the rest are tanks which you can only see from one perspective. If you want to get shots of the tanks, follow the recommended route up the ramps. If you want to get open shots, here are my best suggestions provided we get in early:

The shark tank - It is a ring tank, and in the normal routing you go up until you get to the rainforest, and then down ramps inside the ring (like a doughnut) from the top of the tank to the bottom. If you want to beat the crowds, go left as soon as you enter the aquarium, go past the gift shop, and you will go through the exit from the bottom of the ring tank. go up the ramps, and you will probably beat the crowds coming the other way. ;)
The Rainforest - It is at the top of the main building, and normally folks go up level by level until they get to the top floor. If you want unobstructed shots in there, follow the normal routing but don't stop and look at the displays on each level - just keep on truckin' straight to the entrance of the rainforest. You can always go back and look at the displays on a second pass.
Marine Mammal Pavillion - They only have shows, no continuing displays. There are plenty of seats, but if you want to pick your seat, get in the line early. Be aware that they have warning signs at the lowest rows about getting wet, and they aren't kidding - you are very likely to get wet in the lower front rows. There is a platform at the center of the seating area where the folks have the dolphins do some tricks, and I think there is another platform on either side. As I remember, there is a bridge or something across the middle of the tank where they do some tricks, and also at the far end, away from the seats - pick your seat and lenses accordingly. Australian Outback - This is the new exhibit that just opened this month. I haven't been there yet, so I can't say much. But you can probably expect it to be the most crowded exhibit there. Good luck with it.
In addition, there is a large 'tray' with sea rays and small sharks in the center of the display area. I haven't had much luck with the camera there, but shots from above might work - the moving ramps that go from level to level cross above the tray, and you might be able to look straight down at it.

Outside is the seal pool, and you don't need a ticket to see it. The seals can make some nice shots, but the pool is always packed with people, and you might not be able to get a vantage point easily.
Check the Web site for the displays and exhibits, and if you see something that interests you, post it and I'll answer the best I can.
http://www.aqua.org/index.html

Have Fun,

Jon

31st of December 2005 (Sat), 07:16

So far, the most popular meeting place and time idea is between 9:00 & 9:30 in the Starbucks that is in Barnes & Noble at the Power Plant in the Inner Harbor. It is on E. Pratt St., and the building is an old power plant with tall smokestacks. On the side of the building is a giant guitar for the Hard Rock Cafe, and also in the building is the ESPNZone, with a giant sign to match. Here's a link to the Barnes & Noble store locator - it can give you driving directions:
http://storelocator.barnesandnoble.com/storedetail.do?store=2881

Unless someone comes up with a better place to meet, this is it - Speak Now or Forever Hold Your Peace!

There are several parking lots and garages in the immediate vicinity. My favorite option is in the Renaissance Harborplace Hotel. It is right across the street from Harborplace, and about one block from the Power Plant. This link will give you driving directions:
http://marriott.com/property/mapandnearbyairports/drivingdirections.mi?marshaCode=bwish&WT_Ref=mi_left

Have Fun,
Quoting this so we can keep the active info all together rather than printing out the whole thread.
Jon (obviously), caucasian, moustache & goatee :{)# Grey Domke F-1x with likely a couple of POTN straps hanging out of it. http://photography-on-the.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=33957&d=1129653106 although sans ruff.

Formulated_One

31st of December 2005 (Sat), 09:59

Earlier in the thread I posted my opinion on either Baltimore, or D.C..I am glad you guys and gals have chose Baltimore..I regret to say that I will not be able to make this, it sucks that I have to miss photographing my old stomping grounds..

To everyone that is going, have fun..I think you will really enjoy it, Baltimore has alot to offer, and it will be interesting to see how everyone views it..Do Baltimore proud...:)

Just thought that I would let you know that you can walk from Starbucks to the Aquarium in about 10mins, then the Trade Center (Top of the world) is about another 10min walk away..On the way between those, is the Constillation..

Also around the corner from those is the "Market Place"...Very cool inside, kind-of like that old fish market feeling..On the second level you will be able to walk outside, I think this is a good place to get some pictures..You will be able to see most of the Harbor, and also able to get a good vantage point on all the main bulidings..

Just some suggestions, I am very interested in seeing what everyone captures..If anyone happens to get near Camden Yards, it would be awesome to see a picture or a variety of pictures of the Stadium..

Have a good time everyone..I can't wait to see the results..!

arpi

31st of December 2005 (Sat), 14:47

well, I am 5'11'', have black hair, Hispanic, and I'll be wearing, hmm... a brown crumpler shoulder bag and a tripod. I guess we will stand out from the rest by the bags and the equipment. I think Formulated_One is talking about a different starbucks in the previous post. If I am not mistaken, the starbucks in the powerplant is inside (top level) the Barns&Noble store and it is 30 seconds walking distance from the aquarium (not 10 mins.). But I guess there are lots of things to do in between, like take pictures. :p, which can make the walk 10 mins

Cheers

Edit: I forgot to mention my name: Rafael

CoolToolGuy

31st of December 2005 (Sat), 16:22

I did a recon mission at the Inner Harbor today, and I have some updated info:

Due to changes at the Aquarium, most of the 'attack planning' info is out-of-date. (What's the matter with them? Don't they know that once they set something up they're supposed to leave it that way forever? :lol: ), Anyway, I will prepare a new 'attack planning' post in the next day or so.
There are no boats to Fort McHenry at this time of year, nor is there a tourist shuttle. The 'only' ways to get there are transit bus (not recommended) or drive yourself. The drive is not long or difficult (easy for me to say, I'm a local boy), but you will have to deal with multiple parking stints. It is still doable, but a little more trouble.
I spoke with folks at the Aquarium, they said we have to wait in line to buy the tickets (no surprise there), but they might be able to take us in 'the back way' to help avoid the crowds. One guy took my cell phone number, and he said he will call me on Saturday morning to let me know if it can happen.
I spoke with folks at several restaurants about having dinner and using a TV to critique/review our shots from the day. I think this could be a great thing if we can make it happen. I'll put that info in a separate post.
I verified with Barnes & Noble that they will be open Saturday morning, and as mentioned above, the Starbucks is on the second level - You go in the door, straight back to the escalators, then turn right to go to the 'up' escalator. It is basically next door to the Aquarium, and you can look right over at the ticket area (where the 'poor slob' will be waiting in line for tickets :lol: )
I spoke with folks at the Top of The World and they don't think there will be a delay if we want to go up there. Purely optional, and the weather will be a factor.
I went to the tourist center, and I got a bunch of tourist brochures we can look over in Starbucks. I got multiple copies in case we break up and you have another interest. I also got several copies of the official MD road map (just another service provided by the CoolToolGuy)
Stay tuned. . .

Have Fun,

Jon

31st of December 2005 (Sat), 16:45

Thanks, Rick, for all you're doing for this. The event's success will be a direct result of your efforts. And I'm sure glad it's you, not me - I hate organizing things!

CoolToolGuy

31st of December 2005 (Sat), 18:32

Dinner/Critique Session Info

To take it from the top, here's the idea: At the end of the day, we have dinner at a restaurant. They have a TV available for us. I have a Sandisk Photo Album display device that accepts memory cards (CF, SmartMedia, xD, Memory Stick, SD & MMC), and displays the images on a TV as a slide show. So we show off all the shots we took during the day, and critique them. Of course, the crowd will build if the other restaurant patrons notice all the outstanding artwork being displayed. :lol:

Below are the options. All of them are in the immediate vicinity of the Inner Harbor. Check the Web link for the menu if that makes a difference. One thing they all mentioned is that we should do this before the crowd comes on Saturday night. I mentioned 6:00 or so, and they all thought that would work.

Uno Chicago Grill - http://www.unos.com/great.html This is a chain. The guy I talked to was very friendly, and he said they can set us up with a TV that they have there.
ESPNZone - http://espnzone.com/menu/fullmenu.shtml This is the first ESPNZone in the chain. If you don't know of it, imagine a Sports Bar on Steroids :lol: Huge, multi-floor, they occasionally do national broadcasts from there. The guy I talked to said they could put us in the 'Private Box' and they would have all we need for TV, etc, but the room would only hold 15 max. At the current rate, that won't be a problem. The want us to be in the private room because they don't want non-sports stuff to be shown in the open area.
Tir Na Nog - http://www.tirnanogbaltimore.com/menu-dinner.php This is one of a small chain - an Irish Bar & Grill. They were very friendly, and they have several TVs mounted around the restaurant. We would not have a separate room, but I didn't ask them for that.
Phillips Harborplace - http://www.phillipsseafood.com/pdfs/PHP_menu.pdf - Part of a chain - the classic MD seafood restaurant. They told me they have a private room they might be able to set up for us, but I need to call them next week to arrange it.
Any of them look like a good choice. The Tim Allen in me got a little pumped about getting the 'private box' in the ESPNZone, I'll never turn down an opportunity to go to Phillips, Tir Na Nog has an interesting menu, and the view of the Inner Harbor I saw from the one area we discussed was outstanding, and Uno has good basic food and they seemed very accommodating.

What I would like to do is have a first and second choice by Sunday night or Monday, so I can call and arrange it by Tuesday at the latest. They all sounded good when I talked to them today, but I want to verify the TV with inputs and such. None of them want a fee for what we want to do. My suggestion for us is to make sure we give them a decent tip - as appreciation, and in case we do this again. Not outrageous, just a decent one.

So chew this over :rolleyes: and we will make a choice. Menu prices don't matter to me, but I think Uno might be the lowest.

Starting to come together. .

Have Fun,

Wrench

31st of December 2005 (Sat), 18:51

My vote is for ESPN Zone. I love that place.

SuzyView

31st of December 2005 (Sat), 20:29

I won't be able to make dinner, but I'll be there in the morning. Sounds like fun.

SuzyView

CoolToolGuy

31st of December 2005 (Sat), 21:13

I won't be able to make dinner, but I'll be there in the morning. Sounds like fun.

SuzyView

What a shame - any chance you'll change your mind?

Have Fun,

Wrench

1st of January 2006 (Sun), 12:04

I won't be able to make dinner, but I'll be there in the morning. Sounds like fun.

SuzyView

:(

Jon

1st of January 2006 (Sun), 17:01

I'd favour Tir Na n'Og, with ESPN as a second choice.
Rick - does the SanDisk unit handle RAW or just JPEG? Also, my PPC does WiFi; we might even be able to post from on site.

Wrench

4th of January 2006 (Wed), 19:40

Any updates? Where we eatin'? I'm ready to go!

CoolToolGuy

4th of January 2006 (Wed), 19:53

Aquarium Attack Planning :lol:
(Release 1.1)

I got an email from the Aquarium (actually, someone that works there :lol: ), and here's the info:

All cameras must be hand-held. No tripods, no monopods. (I have a chain-pod that I'm taking, but if they say anything it goes right in my bag).
On-camera flashes are okay - but no additional lighting.
Tickets are for sale online with an entrance time. It is unclear to me what is the earliest entry time available, as the email was confusing. The first entry time is 10 AM. More on tickets below
I have the name of one guy who has my cell phone number, and he said he would call me with info about whether we can go in the back door. Stay tuned.
The entrance is near the new Australian Outback exhibit, and that will likely be packed all day. If you want unobstructed shots there, early may be your best chance.
The Rainforest and Shark Tank offer an opportunity to get shots without people in the way if you go directly to the Rainforest as soon as you get inside. Follow the ramps up and don't stop to look at any other exhibits. If we get in early, there's a good chance you'll get there before the crowd. You can always go back and see the other exhibits in a second pass if you want.
Shark Tank - The routinng is new, you cannot go up from the bottom as I posted previously. Go to and through the Rainforest, and when you exit you will go down an escalator to the Shark Tank (PS there's more there besides sharks). They told me that when you reach the bottom you have to go up on an escalator to get out.
Marine Mammal Pavilion - They do not have 'shows' but they have 'demonstrations' at 11:00 and 1:00. With the new entrance, I'm not sure how you get to the ramps that lead to the pavilion, but there will be signs. Make sure you get there and get in line early enough to pick the seat you want. As I mentioned before, if you sit in the lower rows of seats, you will get wet, so carry a '1' series with weather sealing, :lol: or sit higher.
The seal pool is permanently gone. :(
Tickets - I will order them if you want. I'd like to get a count by Thursday noon. So far, it looks like 5 for the Aquarium. If you want to get them on your own, go for it, but we won't necessarily all have the same entry time. I asked whether we can buy the tickets for the Dollar Day online, and they said yes. Online tickets have a $1.75 service charge per ticket, so that raises the price to $2.75 each.
I think those are the major high points for the Aquarium. Any questions, let me know - I'm no expert, but I'll try to find the answer.

More posts about the day coming soon.

Have Fun,

CoolToolGuy

4th of January 2006 (Wed), 19:57

Any updates? Where we eatin'? I'm ready to go!

I have a nice bag with all the stuff for the day - at home :rolleyes: I will bring it with me tomorrow, and make the contacts. It looks like its between ESPNZone and Tir Na N'og. I'll update as soon as I know.

Have Fun,

CoolToolGuy

4th of January 2006 (Wed), 20:02

I forgot to mention my name: Rafael

I noted your userid - Do you play Baseball? :lol: :lol:

That's okay, I just won't accept any vitamins from you. . . :lol: :lol:

Have Fun,

SuzyView

4th of January 2006 (Wed), 20:20

Still planning to be there and with my 20D. It's a keeper! I'm having so much fun playing with the self-timer, we're taking a family portrait tonight and my 17 year old has a piano lesson until 9:30. I should have done this on day 1 of my son's visit home. How we always wait until the last moment. . . .

Please tell me final details by Friday. Can't wait. My husband and boys think I'm crazy, but I'm really excited.

SuzyView

Wrench

4th of January 2006 (Wed), 20:23

CoolToolGuy

4th of January 2006 (Wed), 20:26

Can't wait. My husband and boys think I'm crazy, but I'm really excited.

SuzyView

The family went out to dinner the other night (ironically, to Outback Steakhouse), and we got to discussing it, and my wife and older daughter were falling out of their chairs laughing over some of the details (they just don't understand :confused: ) Luckily, the younger daughter has a level head on her shoulders, :rolleyes: and didn't think it was all that funny.

I'm getting psyched.

Have Fun,

CoolToolGuy

4th of January 2006 (Wed), 20:29

Hoo rah. All sounds good to me. What time does the aquarium open? Since it doesn't look like many people are coming, I could get there uber-early and get the tickets. That way we can be in the door as soon as they open. Did they give you a time when the ticket booth opens? How about the aquarium itslef, 10?

Tickets are already selling online, and 10:00 entry times will probably be gone by Saturday morning. That's why I'd like to buy them tomorrow (Thursday).

If the guy calls me on my cell phone, we might get a break to get in early, but that's not a lock.

Have Fun,

Wrench

4th of January 2006 (Wed), 21:27

Oops, forgot that you said you were getting them tomorrow. Sorry

CoolToolGuy

4th of January 2006 (Wed), 22:14

I'd like to get a confirm from arpi, I'll send him a PM.

Last call for Aquarium tickets with the group - if you don't get them with us you can still get in, it will just be a different entry time. We are trying to get in as early as possible (9:00).

Have Fun,

Wrench

4th of January 2006 (Wed), 22:16

Found this link, for those of us that may need a little inspiration

http://www.baltimoreentrepreneur.com/baltimore_photos.htm

SuzyView

5th of January 2006 (Thu), 06:12

Yeah. Don't worry about me, guys with the tickets. I will get there when I can. I have 3 other people to negotiate and I am hoping to get there early, but you never know. :( My kids are a little unpredictable. But 10:00 should be okay. It will take me around 1 1/2 hours to get there.

SuzyView

CoolToolGuy

5th of January 2006 (Thu), 11:36

New Info on Aquarium Tickets

I couldn't buy tickets online, so I fired off an email to the lady I emailed with the other day, and got this reply:

I just learned that we are not doing advanced ticket sales for this weekend due to the anticipated incredibly high volume and that we will have expanded hours this weekend. (I don't believe the early times are announced publicly, but since the lines generally start about an hour before opening on dollar day weekends - I told you they are insane days to visit! - we have decided to let people in out of the cold as soon as possible.) Timed ticketing will still be in effect, and I'd suggest arriving perhaps a little before 9 a.m. to try to get in as early as possible. We plan to open our doors to the public at 9 a.m.

So this is more like we originally thought (get there early, wait in line) but they will be opening at 9:00 instead of 10:00.

I still plan to get there before that in case I need to take a turn as the poor slob in line, but adjust your schedules if you can.

They will be using the timed tickets. SuzyView, you mentioned that time was tight for you, so I don't know whether to get a 9:00 ticket for you or not.

Stay tuned. . .

Have Fun,

SuzyView

5th of January 2006 (Thu), 13:50

Oh, you know, it will take me about 1 1/2 just to drive there. Don't worry about me then. It is going to be a cold day, around 35 and I can't even tell you the final decision until tomorrow evening. My family is a little unpredictable.

SuzyView - thanks for working so hard on this. I appreciate it.

Wrench

5th of January 2006 (Thu), 18:01

Rick, what time will you be getting there?

CoolToolGuy

5th of January 2006 (Thu), 18:05

Rick, what time will you be getting there?

I'm hoping for 7:30, to see if there are any good sunrise shots. Unless there are already people in line I will probably zip around the water's edge looking for shots. If the line has already started, I'll jump right into it.

Have Fun,

Wrench

5th of January 2006 (Thu), 18:20

Cool, I'll be shooting for around 8:00 then. I'll be hanging around the ticket sales booth with a black lowepro shoulder bag or a tamrac backpack. Havent decided yet.

CoolToolGuy

5th of January 2006 (Thu), 18:46

I'll have a Tamrac Cyber Pro Express. It looks like a rolling briefcase. I'll also be (proudly!) wearing my POTN baseball cap.

Have Fun,

SuzyView

5th of January 2006 (Thu), 20:29

CoolToolGuy

5th of January 2006 (Thu), 20:42

Two more days.

Talked to my husband tonight. He says that 7:30 start was a little early, and to let him think about it. I told him I wouldn't mind taking my 2 little guys if he didn't want to come, but I think he wants to come along. He'll just take a nap later. He's really nice to me.

SuzyView

Let hubby nap on the way up if it works for you ;)

Kids - if they have never been to the Aquarium, they are in for a great trip. And, if they even remotely like trains, the B&O Museum is another great visit. They get to get onto many of the cars and engines, and there is a large-scale model train layout outside (a little cold, but worth a look).

Have Fun,

SuzyView

6th of January 2006 (Fri), 06:10

They really are excited and they love fish and trains.

I was a kid in NYC and every weekend was an adventure. I think I went to the Statue of Liberty every year at least once for 12 years.

SuzyView

FScott

6th of January 2006 (Fri), 15:51

Hi all. Somehow I missed this thread! Oh well. I won't make it due to a prior commitment and a new baby at home. But I want to go to the next one!

-- Scott.

Jon

6th of January 2006 (Fri), 17:00

Hacven't decided whether to take "Old Reliable", the grey Domke F-1x, or the new kid on the block - the tan F-7AF. Probably Old Reliable. Too much else to get done tonight to repack stuff. I'll shoot for 8:30-9:00; will check in with Rick as soon as I've parked.

SuzyView

7th of January 2006 (Sat), 05:24

Hey, for anyone checking, it's still a go for me, but everyone is still asleep. I will call you, Jon, at 8:30 no matter what. Stay warm, it's cold out there!

SuzyView

Jon

7th of January 2006 (Sat), 06:35

And we're OFF! See ya all around the Aquarium or thereabouts.

pixelgrunt

7th of January 2006 (Sat), 11:25

D'oh! I just found this thread and read though it with my jaw on my desk.

I live in Overlea- downtown is about 20 minutes away for me. I would have LOVED to have gotten together with some of the regulars to this forum for an expedition in my home town. I do have a social committment this afternoon with my family, but could have probably attended the morning activities.

I'm new to DSLR photography and would have loved to have gotten together with some regulars from this forum to gain as much knowlege/tips/critiques/KNOWLEDGE as possible in my home town.

I hope everyone has an outstanding time and I'm looking forward to seeing the results posted here(!). I'll have to keep my eyes out for a future expedition to one of the other optional destinations in the poll.

SuzyView

7th of January 2006 (Sat), 14:53

Just got back from meeting 3 of the guys. Thanks for waiting for me. I brought my family. It was $1 general admission to day. It would have cost the 4 of us $75 otherwise.

Jon, Rick, Tony - you guys are so great. My offer still goes for another get together. Sorry to those that didn't make it or just found out about it too late. I got there just in time to meet the guys by the entrance. We talked for a little bit. I am embarrassed at the level of expertise of these men. Jon, you have great stuff and know how to use it all. And Rick let me hold his 1D. It was so heavy and wonderful. I wish I could have seen the shots you all had.

I brought my 20D with 50 1.4 with lens kit in the bag. I was amazed at the low light in the aquarium, but every shot came out nice and sharp. That 20D is truly a low light champ. Sorry, Tony. :( I hope your shots came out. It was hard not to get reflections with all the other light in the room on the glass. It was a fun day. Hope you had a good time at the B&O and at dinner. Next time I'll have to do better.

SuzyView

arpi

7th of January 2006 (Sat), 19:28

yeah, it was lots of fun. I'll be the first to put some pics even though I have to go. I'll put more tomorrow evening :)

cheers

http://www.ensimismado.org/other/img_7968.jpg

http://www.ensimismado.org/other/img_7986.jpg

http://www.ensimismado.org/other/img_8038.jpg

http://www.ensimismado.org/other/img_8151.jpg

SuzyView

7th of January 2006 (Sat), 20:11

Here are 2 of mine. I did just minimal adjustments as well.

48369

48370

SuzyView

Wrench

7th of January 2006 (Sat), 21:52

It was great meeting everyone. Sorry I had to skip dinner, I left just in time. I ended up getting real sick. O well, I got a few keepers but nothing spectacular (big surprise there).

Rafael, sorry I didn't get a chance to meet up with you. It looks like you kept busy ;). NIce shots BTW!

U too SuzyView (:))

Wrench

7th of January 2006 (Sat), 22:20

Going to try to post one. This is right out of the camera, as you all now know, I don't PP anything b/c I"m computer stupid :)

http://image60.webshots.com/60/1/44/31/538914431QVpMEA_ph.jpg

CoolToolGuy

7th of January 2006 (Sat), 22:38

It was a great day - Jon, Arpi, and I were about fifteenth in line when the Aquarium doors opened at 9:00. We had a head start on pictures without crowds :cool: - But two of the best areas are enclosed because they need to have high humidity. Guess what happened to our lenses? Fog :( Some had it easier than others. I tried to clean them off, but until they warmed up, the condensation returned. Meanwhile the crowds were building :( But there were still a lot of shots to be had.

First Bummer of the day - At the end of the day, I looked at the 20D and noticed that it was still set for fluorescent WB from the other day:shock: I haven't looked at the shots yet, I guess I'll have a little extra Photoshopping to do :o

Second bummer of the day - We got to the restaurant, and they were happy to see us. They had a table reserved for us with a wide-screen flat panel TV right there. But we couldn't find the video input to hook up the viewer, so no review session :(

But all in all it was a great day for me, and it was great to meet some of the great members of this board. I'm looking forward to the next one :D

Have Fun,

SuzyView

8th of January 2006 (Sun), 06:31

Hey, Rick, don't feel bad. I avoided changing the ISO on the camera and shot without flash. Most of the pictures came out blurry, but some were keepers. I think the one with my son and the penguin is just wonderful, if I do say so myself. :o :) I just love those kind of shots, you know, tell a story. But it was crowded and I got too much reflection that I can't PS out for anything. :cry:

Tony, I am really tempted to take the PS Elements 3 class for stupid people like me here at NOVA Woodbridge for 3 sessions on SAT starting in March. It costs around $100. If anyone is interested, the class is supposed to be very informative. I keep thinking I know what I'm doing, but a class would really help me. I can sacrifice 3 SAT mornings for that. Go onto the NOVA link for continuing education. I took the framing class 2 years ago and it has saved me a ton of money on matting. I can do all that kind of stuff now by myself. So, if you or Rick or Jon need something done (photos only) I have tons (and I mean tons) of large mats that have never been used, and I have glass too.

Sorry about the t.v. problem and getting sick guys. We went to the Mexican place next to Hard Rock and had the best burrito fajita with guacamole. And then we drove home and took down the Christmas decorations, watched the Redskins win (badly) and then the other game on our 57 inch HDTV. Life is good. :lol:

SuzyView

Wrench

8th of January 2006 (Sun), 12:09

Sorry about the t.v. problem and getting sick guys. We went to the Mexican place next to Hard Rock and had the best burrito fajita with guacamole. And then we drove home and took down the Christmas decorations, watched the Redskins win (badly) and then the other game on our 57 inch HDTV. Life is good. :lol:

SuzyView

Ahhhhh, Chipotle'. Good stuff! I love that place. I must say I enjoyed the 'skins victory, even though they played a sloppy game with horrible play calling. Hopefully good 'ole Gibbs doesn't play so conservative next weekend.

BTW, I downloaded InfraView and figured out how to use it, but I need a host. I tried to remote link to it in my last post here last night but it didn't show up. I have it up on Webshots but they suck for linking. :(

arpi

8th of January 2006 (Sun), 17:47

SuzyView and Wrench, sorry I didn't meet you but I am sure there will be other POTNs to hang around. most of the pictures I took yesterday were of fish and frogs and I post a couple.

Wake up Baltimore, POTNers are here!

http://ensimismado.org/other/IMG_7940.JPG

there was all kind of animals and I think we all got pics of the same ones but hey, lets start. these fellows were chilling sticking the heads out

http://www.ensimismado.org/other/IMG_7975.JPG

I got tons of pics of fish of all types of color and sizes

http://ensimismado.org/other/IMG_8001.JPG

http://www.ensimismado.org/other/IMG_8017.JPG

http://www.ensimismado.org/other/IMG_8096.JPG

http://www.ensimismado.org/other/IMG_8114.JPG

http://www.ensimismado.org/other/IMG_8050.JPG

after the aquarium we went to the B&O museum. this is a picture of the aquarium when it was getting dark

http://www.ensimismado.org/other/IMG_8203.JPG

http://www.ensimismado.org/other/IMG_8156.JPG

SuzyView

8th of January 2006 (Sun), 18:09

FScott

8th of January 2006 (Sun), 18:37

Hey, ARPI, I didn't get to meet you yesterday. Did you have to leave earlier? Your pictures are amazing. I hope Jon posts a few.

I'm thinking the Dulles Air & Space in the spring. What do you think? I haven't been and I am taking my 3rd grade Space Explorers soon and will scout out the museum for good shots. It's really good in warmer weather, so I figure around late March or April. What do you guys think? And there are some good eating places in Dulles.

SuzyView

Excellent! Can we start a mailing/PM list in case we don't see the thread go by? Also in the spring, the national arboretum is fantastic. They have something like 100,000 Azalea bushes and when they are in bloom one entire hill looks like it is on fire. The national aquatic gardens are also incredible when the lilly pads bloom. As a bonus, it is almost always empty of people. Cherry blossums are also good but you have to go at dawn because otherwise it is just a mob scene. The lighting at dawn however is excellent.

-- Scott.

arpi

8th of January 2006 (Sun), 19:45

Hey, ARPI, I didn't get to meet you yesterday. Did you have to leave earlier? Your pictures are amazing. I hope Jon posts a few.

I'm thinking the Dulles Air & Space in the spring. What do you think? I haven't been and I am taking my 3rd grade Space Explorers soon and will scout out the museum for good shots. It's really good in warmer weather, so I figure around late March or April. What do you guys think? And there are some good eating places in Dulles.

SuzyView

well, I got a ticket for a friend and she came at about 10:20. Then, I spent all the time in the caffeteria talking till 12 noon :o. And when I came out I saw nobody so I went to have something to eat and went to the B&O museum where I later saw Rick and Jon again. Thanks for the good words about the pics and I am sorry I didn't get the chance to meet you and Tony. I am sure we will find many places to go in the spring. I am not familiar with Dulles but I am for it :). We could make another poll for next time. I hope I'll meet all the other people that for whatever reason did not have a chance to attend. Rick ,Jon and I went to have dinner to an Irish restaurant and we had a good time talking about many things like photography and computer stuff.

SuzyView

8th of January 2006 (Sun), 20:45

Yes, we need to do a poll and set some kind of schedule. I take my kids out of school during the week to take pictures during the cherry blossoms. You have to because it is so crowded on the weekends. That is a must-see. I'm game for the other suggestion, too.

Maybe we should start a thread in the spring on the best cherry blossom picture? :)

SuzyView

NauticaX

8th of January 2006 (Sun), 21:09

Here are 2 of mine. I did just minimal adjustments as well.

48369

48370

SuzyView

I like the one with the girl looking at the penguin.

Oh yea I found this link from somebody posting it on FM. I don't own a Canon but I joined anyway since its hard to find people from the Wash DC area that goes out and meet :) I ended up going to Balt Aquarium today thanks to finding out about Dollar Day weekend from this link too! Boy was it packed! Hopefully nobody minds a Nikonian to tag along in a future outing :)

Jon

8th of January 2006 (Sun), 21:15

Just got finished downloading & captioning my haul. Should get a chance to post something tomorrow evening.

CoolToolGuy

8th of January 2006 (Sun), 21:59

I'm hosting-site challenged, but I do have some slide show software that I got free from Comcast. The link should kick off the slide show.

These are straight out of the 1D2N - no adjustments.

http://photoshow.comcast.net/watch/mk8Am7qY

Have Fun,

NauticaX

8th of January 2006 (Sun), 22:06

Ahhhhh, Chipotle'. Good stuff! I love that place. I must say I enjoyed the 'skins victory, even though they played a sloppy game with horrible play calling. Hopefully good 'ole Gibbs doesn't play so conservative next weekend.

BTW, I downloaded InfraView and figured out how to use it, but I need a host. I tried to remote link to it in my last post here last night but it didn't show up. I have it up on Webshots but they suck for linking. :(

If you only have a few pics you want to up and post feel free to use my image host at http://focushd.com

SuzyView

9th of January 2006 (Mon), 04:24

Welcome to the FORUM, NauticaX. We are a friendly bunch in the DC area.

Rick, your album was WOW, need I say more? I love what you did with the wide angle lens, especially at the B&O. Those shots are fantastic. Looks like it was low light in the dolphin area, but we can fix that later. Other than that, you have a fantastic eye for composition.

And I can't wait to see Jon's pictures.

I have to run. Teaching in 30 minutes.

SuzyView

Wrench

9th of January 2006 (Mon), 19:46

Thanks Rick!!!!!!!! I have comcast too ;). I'll upload some pics tonight and link here. How come you didn't load more? I got quite a few of "Tommy Buckets", I see him every time I go up there.

I met up with a group of skaters while you guys were at B&O and managed a couple good shots of them until we were "Detained" by the City's finest :(

Wrench

9th of January 2006 (Mon), 21:29

I'm uploading some shots now. They're all right out of the camera, just resized. Any and all C&C is welcomed and invited!

http://images.snapfish.com/3459%3A9963%7Ffp338%3Enu%3D3249%3E%3A82%3E936%3EWS NRCG%3D32334577%3A%3A537nu0mrj

CoolToolGuy

9th of January 2006 (Mon), 21:30

Thanks Rick!!!!!!!! I have comcast too ;). I'll upload some pics tonight and link here. How come you didn't load more?

Tony, the 20D was set for fluorescent WB, so those shots need some photoshopping. I just posted some from the 1D to get a sample out there.

Have Fun,

SuzyView

9th of January 2006 (Mon), 21:33

Rick, where did you post?

SuzyView

CoolToolGuy

9th of January 2006 (Mon), 21:37

Rick, where did you post?

SuzyView

So far, just the slide show that you saw. No time to photoshop yet.

Have Fun,

Wrench

9th of January 2006 (Mon), 21:45

http://images.snapfish.com/3459%3A9%3A49%7Ffp337%3Enu%3D3249%3E%3A82%3E936%3E WSNRCG%3D32334577%3A%3B%3B86nu0mrj

http://images.snapfish.com/3459%3A9%3A49%7Ffp336%3Enu%3D3249%3E%3A82%3E936%3E WSNRCG%3D32334577%3A%3A%3A97nu0mrj

http://images.snapfish.com/3459%3A9%3A49%7Ffp336%3Enu%3D3249%3E%3A82%3E936%3E WSNRCG%3D32334577%3A%3B%3B88nu0mrj

http://images.snapfish.com/3459%3A9%3A49%7Ffp336%3Enu%3D3249%3E%3A82%3E936%3E WSNRCG%3D32334577%3A%3A%3C34nu0mrj

http://images.snapfish.com/3459%3A9%3A49%7Ffp336%3Enu%3D3249%3E%3A82%3E936%3E WSNRCG%3D32334577%3A%3B885nu0mrj

http://images.snapfish.com/3459%3A9%3A%3B%3B%7Ffp336%3Enu%3D3249%3E%3A82%3E93 6%3EWSNRCG%3D32334577%3A33%3A3nu0mrj
http://images.snapfish.com/3459%3A9%3A49%7Ffp338%3Enu%3D3249%3E%3A82%3E936%3E WSNRCG%3D32334577%3A%3A%3A94nu0mrj

CoolToolGuy

9th of January 2006 (Mon), 22:11

NauticaX

9th of January 2006 (Mon), 22:20

I kind of like this one I took. Wish I stopped the apeture down a bit more to get the mouth and nose more in focus.

http://focushd.com/uploads/_AWS1038.jpg

NauticaX

9th of January 2006 (Mon), 22:20

Welcome to the FORUM, NauticaX. We are a friendly bunch in the DC area.

SuzyView

Thanks for the welcome. Hopefully I can make your next outings.

Wrench

9th of January 2006 (Mon), 22:23

Tony, your shots are great. My shots in the Rainforest are mostly foggy. I have some that are clear, I need to do the photoshop thing and put some up.

I especially like the one through the rigging of the Constellation!

Have Fun,

Thanks for the kind words Rick! I was surprised how they turned out when I uploaded them from my CF card. I now know what a difference good glass makes. Wish I had invested a long time ago thats for sure.

NauticaX: Welcome, sorry you couldn't make it this weekend. I love that shot although I agree about the DOF issue. Good colors though.

arpi

9th of January 2006 (Mon), 23:13

nice pics everybody. I'll put a few more :)

http://ensimismado.org/other/IMG_7993.jpg

http://ensimismado.org/other/IMG_8045.jpg

http://ensimismado.org/other/IMG_8054.jpg

http://ensimismado.org/other/IMG_8101.jpg

CoolToolGuy

10th of January 2006 (Tue), 06:04

Good stuff, Rafael - I also liked what you did from the observation deck.

NauticaX - welcome, sorry we missed you but glad you got to go.

Since this originally was Jon's idea, I think the next one should be a nature trip in the Spring - when it warms up a bit.

Have Fun,

SuzyView

10th of January 2006 (Tue), 07:17

Tony, Rafael - WOW. I didn't get nearly as good shots. I feel like I'm the little kid around you guys. Well, it would have helped if I could have gotten closer to the front of the crowds, but I did okay for a first outing. There were some really great ones outside. Tony, mid-jump. Nice one!

We should put everything together for our next outing. :)

SuzyView

Wrench

10th of January 2006 (Tue), 10:16

Suzy, thanks for the comments! No need to feel like a little kid, I'm sure if you had taken as many shots as we did, you'd have more keepers than I do ;) I'm just starting out too.

I agree, time to start planning the next trip!!!

Jon

10th of January 2006 (Tue), 14:12

Here's all I've gotten to so far.
49166
Central Bearded Skink
and
49167
Sun Bittern

Funky light balances are where RAW helps. I used the white eyerings on the Conures, the white stripes on the Sun Bittern and one of the Skinks to get a colour temperature to use on the shots. Raw Shooter Pro, pretty much taking defaults except for the colour temperature.

Jon

10th of January 2006 (Tue), 14:14

Oh, yeah, the obligatory, for POTN, ducks:
49168
at dusk by the Clipper City.

SuzyView

10th of January 2006 (Tue), 14:52

Wow, Jon, those RAW shots are amazing. You've got me convinced. I'm going to shoot RAW this weekend and see what I get.

Keep posting.

SuzyView

arpi

10th of January 2006 (Tue), 16:48

OK folks. this is my load of 65 images :o if you use modem it will take a lot of time to load the page:

Great Maryland Photo Expedition (http://www.ensimismado.org/other/potn.html)

cheers to eveybody

Jon

10th of January 2006 (Tue), 17:31

Wow, Jon, those RAW shots are amazing. You've got me convinced. I'm going to shoot RAW this weekend and see what I get.

Keep posting.

SuzyView
Part of it's the lenses - 70-200 f/2.8 and 100-400 (EXIF and IPTC data are in the pics). RAW helped here mainly in colour balance.

SuzyView

10th of January 2006 (Tue), 17:59

Rafael, those pictures are fantastic! I have Comcast, thank heavens! Those came up just perfect. You must have great lenses! Those are keepers.

Let's go meet at another place soon! I'm getting eager to watch you all in action. :)

And Jon, it's the shooter. ;)

Suzie

Wrench

10th of January 2006 (Tue), 21:27

Nice shots Jon. Were you having fog troubles in the rain forest?

Here are a couple shots of the street performers I came across while you were at the B&O

Suzy, I'm ready !!!!

http://images.snapfish.com/3459%3B8537%7Ffp338%3Enu%3D3249%3E%3A82%3E936%3EWS NRCG%3D32334579%3B8568nu0mrj

http://images.snapfish.com/3459%3B8537%7Ffp338%3Enu%3D3249%3E%3A82%3E936%3EWS NRCG%3D32334579%3C8887nu0mrj

http://images.snapfish.com/3459%3B8537%7Ffp336%3Enu%3D3249%3E%3A82%3E936%3EWS NRCG%3D32334579%3C8889nu0mrj
[im]

Jon

11th of January 2006 (Wed), 14:39

Nice shots Jon. Were you having fog troubles in the rain forest?

Here are a couple shots of the street performers I came across while you were at the B&O

Suzy, I'm ready !!!!

The 100-400 had a bit at first, but it seemed to be under control by the time I shot the Sun Bittern. The air seemed a bit thick, though. Didn't see any problems with the 70-200, so there might have still been some, or it could have been the lighting - I didn't play with the curves on anything. The A80's the one that really fogged up when I pulled it out!

Nice shots. The drummer was still there when we got back from the B&O but I didn't take any of him - it was starting to get a little dim when I got down that far.