Scotts Run Nature Preserve

Location: Scott’s Run Nature Preserve in McLean, VA

Date: Sunday, January 25th at 8:00AM

Our itinerary: Photography of water, ice and fog (if we're lucky).

Baby its cold outside! What a perfect time to launch my first Meetup gathering. My name is Jim and Ken was gracious enough to accept me as an assistant organizer. I come from a background of 20 years in the photofinishing industry. I was never good enough to be a working pro, but just have the knowledge. I hope to share and to learn from this group.

Instead of a gathering where we take pictures of what’s available, I would like to focus (pun) on a theme. If the creek isn’t frozen, then we’ll try to concentrate on slow shutter speed to blur the water. If it is frozen, then abstracts of the ice/rocks/leaves. This won’t be a techy festival so come and have fun. Here is a link to some photographs from November.

[Sunday morning at 8? Are you nuts?!] Actually 8 is probably a little late. Photographing water and ice in flat lighting yield the best results. Too much sun will give a high contrast ratio [techy talk].

What to wear: It will be cold. Please wear layers, hat and gloves. A pair of waterproof hiking boots would be a bonus. Since we’re going to be in the vicinity of water (or ice), bring some dry socks/shoes and a towel to leave in the car (just in case).

What food to bring: Water, light finger food and a hot beverage in a small leak proof thermos.

Camera equipment: We will be doing some light hiking so don’t plan on packing the entire arsenal. Body with a wide, telephoto and maybe a macro lens. A polarizer and a neutral density filter would be to your benefit. Tripod? If you want to schlep it. Point & shoot cameras? Always welcomed!

Directions: Beltway exit 44 towards Great Falls. Travel .7 miles on Georgetown Pike and turn right in to the main parking lot.

Please email me if you have any questions. We will promptly start at 8:00 AM. Maybe a gathering at a local coffee house or lunch afterwards to preview the fantastic images. I will see you on the trail!