Smithsonian Air & Space Museum Annex visit

Nikon AF DC Nikkor 135mm f/2.0D

01/31/2004 11:58:28 PM · #1

I finally got around to visiting the Udvar-Hazy Center in Dulles, VA (it took me long enough seing that I live about 5 miles away from it). I came to the conclusion that the exhibit is extremely non-photogenic. I took several shots but combining the numerous spot lights, the sky lights, the otherwise darkness, and the crowding of the aircrafts, it was very hard to get any memorable photos. Nonetheless, I had my camera with me, so I snapped a few shots and figured I'd share in case someone else is thinking about visiting.

DJLuba

Nikon D2Xs

02/01/2004 12:28:19 AM · #2

Yup. I went there too the 2nd day it open. The lighting was absolutely horrible. I cannot believe they spent millions of dollars and they haven't the slightest idea how to light the place.

I did take this .

pic there though.

I hope they get some consultants to bring in some lamps

Message edited by author 2004-02-01 00:29:23.

Canon PowerShot Pro 90 IS

02/01/2004 12:32:28 AM · #3

Wow. Bad lighting, but good enough for a 4th place finish. Congrats.

EDIT: The bad lighting was in reference to the museum, not your photo. Sorry.

Message edited by author 2004-02-01 00:32:55.

coolhar

02/01/2004 01:21:31 AM · #4

Originally posted by Trinch:

the exhibit is extremely non-photogenic

My sentiments exactly Trinch. Except I wouldn't have been so polite about it. I was there on Dec 16, the second day that it was open to the public and was disappointed, to say the least. That's where I shot my Vehicles challenge entry

I had been eagerly awaiting this place for literally years and it was such a let down.
The Concorde,

the Blackbird,

the Enola Gay,

and of course the Enterprise, are visually impressive as you walk among them, or look down on them from the catwalks. But the place is so cluttered and crowded that it is impossible to get a well composed, quality photo of them. And the lighting couldn't possibly be any worse, it's as if they set it up to discourage photographers.
And $12 to park. Bummer.

Message edited by author 2004-02-01 01:24:44.

Canon PowerShot Pro 90 IS

02/01/2004 02:14:26 AM · #5

So I guess it's fairly unanimous that the lighting sucked. At least it wasn't just me. However, your pictures look very impressive despite the situation. Then again, there is always photoshop....

LOL

coolhar

02/01/2004 11:10:58 AM · #6

I guess great minds think alike Trinch. I've got a shot like that too.

Concorde over Virginia

MinAlex

Minolta DiMAGE A1

02/01/2004 06:59:06 PM · #7

Very neat shots you guys, thanx for posting them. My girlfriend has been lobbying for a trip to the Air & Space Annex since it opened. We will have to get around to it soon. I have a couple of questions. Will they allow you to take a tripod in there? I was not allowed to bring mine into the main A & S on the mall last summer. And secondly, if they have sky lights as Trinch mentioned, what is the best time of day for photography lighting?