I was looking for different view for the fireworks on the Mall this year. I’ve done the Netherlands Carillon several times, and frankly didn’t want to sit out in the heat and rain for the five hours needed to hold a spot. I looked to Capitol Hill for a different view that would make it dramatically easier to get to and from the fireworks. It makes it just so much easier to get the shot in your own neighborhood.

I really wasn’t sure exactly where I needed to be to catch the right angle for the fireworks to be high enough in the sky. I spent a good chunk of the fireworks moving around as my initial spot was way off. Finally finding a spot standing in the middle of East Capitol Street. After that, I shifted over near Folger Shakespeare Library where a break in the trees revealed the Washington Monument in frame with the Capitol Dome.

I walked away thinking I had pretty much skunked the effort. I could see the photos on the back of the camera, but seeing them bigger let me feel a bit better about my efforts.

I hope you all enjoy the rest of your holiday weekend!