Why Ann Arbor needs a photowalk?

Thu, 05/21/2009 - 1:55pm by mayankgarg

... and Why you should be there?

Since this is my first post on the AADL blog, I contemplated on what would be the best way to catch your attention. And that was all I came up with. Instead, lets talk about the idea of a photowalk.

Describing the photowalk is as simple as breaking the words apart. Walking is a part of our daily routines. And for some, photography is too. The simple act of walking brings us in contact with what we see around us. Try and carry a camera, the next time you're taking a coffee break and see if you end up capturing a city about its way.

Capturing the place I am in gives me the feeling of a visual connection with it. I stop slightly longer to observe it but the wait is all but a drop in the ocean. I'm now slightly more aware of the intricacies of the city, I've come to love. Walk down East Liberty Street, venture down the Alley of Art and ponder at the verse by Carl Sandburg. See if you can make any sense of it or just enjoy the pure reasoning of having a beautiful verse hidden from sight.

Photowalking is not just about walking and taking photos. Its about connecting with the environment. Now, if you could imagine a collective group of photowalkers discovering, conversing and sharing a city in the social element - my idea would be complete.

For those of you who are afraid to stand up against the heavyweights in the audience, be the least afraid. The best camera you need is the one you have. There was a recent story about the photographer Chase Jarvis who struck home this philosophy by releasing an iPhone photo gallery. Do check out his work here. Chase Jarvis' iPhone Photography

The AADL is planning to organize a city photowalk on June 27th, 2009. I think they couldn't have picked a better time of the year. The weather over the past few weeks has been tumultuous. However, it has been an absolute treat. I had a full hour to try and capture the lightning on Friday night. The cloud formations and the cycles of rain have left a vibrant glow to the city.

So do join us in making this endeavor a success. Ann Arbor needs a photowalk. More people need to see what this city truly has to offer. Everyday I discover something different in the city. To some it may seem banal information but to me its the trinkets of the city as it has evolved.

About Me: My name is Mayank Garg. I'm a photographer and designer in Ann Arbor. I am currently designing interfaces for a local startup - Mobil33t. I write a photography blog at munkybizness. Follow Mayank on Twitter!