Monday, February 8, 2010

The Lights of Lexington

I love the city of Lexington. I've spent most of my life here. I grew up in Eastern Kentucky, in a little po-dunk town along the Mountain Parkway, but ever since leaving for college in 2001, Lexington has been my home.

It was scary at first, and a bit daunting. I went from a county that was famous for only having one stop light for most of my life to a town where you have lights every block. The noises, the lights, it was an entirely different world. But soon I settled in, and now I don't know if I could leave it.

Looking at my work, it's evident. I've spent so many afternoons just wandering around the city throughout the day. I've taken pictures of the farmer's market, festivals, gatherings, wedding parties, prom gatherings. Not prompted, not paid for. I was just there, to see the city alive.

So much goes unnoticed by most of the people that work in/commute through/go to school in the city. Graffiti takes on the role of the mouth of the city, decrying city leaders for their lack of action. I've seen the city love, bringing forth all types to celebrate life, freedom, and choices. I've seen the city grow, as businesses and shops spring up out of nowhere. And I've seen the city in pain, with a giant scar in the middle of it's downtown.

Recently I took to the streets again, this time to record the city after the sun went down. I have walked through Lexington at night several times before. It's an interesting energy. I've only attempted to shoot it at night twice. Once was right after a storm, and created beautiful skies. The second was recently, and my first attempt at long exposure photography.

I learned alot. Places I thought would make for amazing pictures turned out disappointing. And I was able to find some great spots where I didn't expect much interest to show up.

Below are shots from my recent trip out. I hope you enjoy.

This is my favorite of the bunch. I love the Kentucky, and I think the shot turned out extremely well.

Got alot of comments regarding this picture, so I thought I would throw it in. I want to improve on it, but that's for another shoot.


Shot on the corner of Limestone and Main.

Vine street and the new neon on the new Hilton. The only dislike I have about this picture is the angle. Something I need to work on.


Taking a picture of "A La Lucie" on Limestone, when a Lextran bus decided to drive in front of the frame. Interesting results.