Finding Inspiration in New York City

“One belongs to New York instantly, one belongs to it as much in five minutes as in five years.”
― Tom Wolfe

Last month, I had the opportunity to spend a long weekend in New York City with my husband, Randy, son, Jeremy, and daughter-in-law, Abi.  We packed as much into our short stay as possible.

This was my second trip to New York City as an adult. I know I visited as a child, but I don’t remember much from that time.

My son was most interested in visiting the 911 Memorial, so we did that first.  During my trip to New York City about thirty years ago, my then-husband, Jeremy’s father, asked me to go to the top of the World Trade Center to take pictures for him.  I took those photos for him that day.  I will never forget how it felt to hear the news of what happened in NYC that morning in 2001.  The 911 Memorial and Museum thoughtfully educate the public and beautifully honor those who lost their lives on that day.

Since this was a family trip and not a photography trip, I carried very little gear.  I did not even pack a tripod for the trip and had only my camera body with one zoom lens attached while we were there.  Having less gear allowed me to see and experience more.  There were only a couple of times that I wished I had my tripod or other gear that I had left at home.

We shared wonderful experiences seeing the show Hamilton and eating amazing food.

Although not our favorite food of the trip, we had an enjoyable evening at Sardis, a restaurant I wanted to visit to reminisce about the last time I was in New York City with my mother and dear friend, Larry.

Of all the things we did, I most enjoyed the trips to the museums and galleries.

Prior to the trip, I was studying the works of Gustav Klimpt.  I was thrilled to see many of his paintings during our visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Neue Galerie New York.

While Abi was researching for our trip, she found and recommended Fotografiska, The Contemporary Museum of Photography, Art, and Culture.  She knew I would appreciate it.  I especially enjoyed the exhibit Vivian Maier’s Unseen Work.

Although Randy is not always as enthusiastic about all of the museums and galleries he visits, I am so incredibly grateful for his support.

Here are some of the images I took in our travels.

Although not a photography trip, it pays to always have your camera with you.  As we walked towards the Empire State Building for our time to go to the top, we found the road blocked.  After waiting about half an hour, we could view the President go through the intersection.

It was an incredible trip and time spent with family.  I feel so fortunate that my adult child and his wife spend so much time with us!  It certainly makes my heart full.

Although the trip was not designated a photography trip, the experiences will undoubtedly help shape the photographs I create going forward.

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I have a passion for both teaching and photography.  I would love the opportunity to share this passion with you through one of my upcoming learning experiences.  Below, please find some of my offerings:

Personal Projects Workshop, Online, October 2024

Creative Zoo Photography Workshop, Online and In Person, October and November 2024

Make Magic Using Digital Processing Tools, Online

Mentorship, Online, In Person, or a combination depending upon your location

Private Instruction, Online or In Person depending upon your location