The Space Shuttle Enterprise

The Space Shuttle Enterprise, originally uploaded by big_pixel_pusher.

I was amazed when Kathy and I first entered the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center near Washington Dulles International Airport. Directly before us was the incredible SR-71 Blackbird and in the distance beyond was the Space Shuttle Enterprise. Being a big fan of space flight, I just couldn't believe I was actually standing in front of this incredible (and huge) piece of American history.

This was the first Space Shuttle orbiter vehicle. It was built for flight test in the atmosphere and never flew in space. It was carried to a launch altitude on the back of a specially modified 747 where it was released and then it glided down to land at Edwards Air Force Base.

The Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery

The Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery, originally uploaded by big_pixel_pusher.

The Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va., was dedicated on May 15, 1920. While many ceremonies are conducted throughout the country, many consider the services at Arlington's Memorial Amphitheater to be the nation's official ceremonies to honor all American service members who serve to keep the United States free.

B-29 Enola Gay

B-29 Enola Gay, originally uploaded by big_pixel_pusher.

This aircraft dropped the first of two atomic bombs that were used against the Empire of Japan and is credited with helping to end World War II. The bomb from this aircraft was dropped on the City of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. The Japanese government unconditionally surrendered 8 days later. Between 90,000 to 140,000 people are estimated to have been killed in the aftermath of the Hiroshima attack.

Ex Nihilo

Ex Nihilo, originally uploaded by big_pixel_pusher.

American master sculptor Frederick Hart's "Ex Nihilo" (Out of Nothing) tympana from the National Cathedral in Washington DC.

Luxor Exhibits Floor

Luxor Exhibits Floor, originally uploaded by big_pixel_pusher.

The Luxor Hotel's exhibits and attractions floor is being upgraded. It currently houses the "Titanic Artifacts" and "Bodies" exhibits. The old motion simulation ride and IMAX theater have been removed.

Hallway

Hallway, originally uploaded by big_pixel_pusher.

Brightly lit hallway leading to the gift shop in the Smithsonian Natural History Museum in Washington DC.

Ethereal Light

Ethereal Light, originally uploaded by big_pixel_pusher.

Amazing morning light in the National Cathedral in Washington DC. Kathy led me on a 2 mile, uphill death march from our hotel but wow was it worth it. There were very few people there, the light was amazing and best of all they allow tripods to be used inside!

Luxor Pool Vertorama

Luxor Pool Vertorama, originally uploaded by big_pixel_pusher.

The pool at the Luxor way after closing time. The wind was really blowing those palm trees around. Not the best conditions for shooting HDR's. I love how you can see the top of the pyramid and the light beam in the building on the upper right.

Chicago Rain

Chicago Rain, originally uploaded by big_pixel_pusher.

I was shooting HDR sequences at Millineum Park in Chicago wishing it would actually start raining instead of just looking like it might. Right about then I heard a thunderclap. 30 seconds later, huddled under my umbrella I was framing my shot and watching the reflections start to appear. Once in a while, very rarely - things like this actually happen.

This is my playground

This is my playground, originally uploaded by big_pixel_pusher.

Golden Gate Park's Carousel in San Francisco