Reflecting Puddle 2010

Returning from errands in DC yesterday, I was passing the Reflecting Pool and noticed it was drained for leak repairs.  Having my camera (always, just in case!) with me, I parked near the Lincoln Memorial and walked into the reflecting pool.  All but a few large puddles attracted small waterfowl to feed on the algae.  These ducklings, only part of a huge flock of more than twenty, began to walk across the reflection of the Washington Monument.

Canon 5DmkII, 200mm 2.8L, ISO 400, 1/320@f14

Washington Monument, Tidal Basin Sunrise 2010

This image was made a few days ago, at the peak of the cherry tree blossoms.  The sunrise was not all that remarkable, but the glass-smooth basin and white cherry flowers jutting in from the left set the scene.  What this serene landscape does not convey - the dozens of shoulder-to-shoulder tourists and professional photographers vying for a couple square feet of tripod space on the bridge leading towards the Jefferson Memorial.  Despite the crowd, it was very quiet, save for the endless clicking and beeping of digital camera shutters.

Canon 5DmkII, ISO 160, various exposures at f22 (HDR).  38880320N 77040382W