Kickk Spott

In many cases times serves to improve a product, but as far as Jordan Brand and Nike are concerned as the years have passed the quality of their sneakers has plummeted; for the most part. For those who are interested in sneakers for reasons of quality over hype specialty sneaker stores are a haven to find a product that is worth their cash. Sadly, the greater DC area does not have many stores that meet such a demand. However, one such store, Kickk Spott, is located in the White Flint Mall. Kickk Spott serves as a destination for those who are looking for sneakers from the past and present. Having a diverse inventory, and a knowledgeable staff it is well worth checking out.

Nike SB High selection.

Air Jordan XIII selection.

The Trunk Series - #FridayThe13

Despite the superstitiously bad date that The Trunk Series happened to open for it's first installment the only problem that seemed to manifest was a missing sound cord. Showcasing some of DC's best in art and fashion, The Trunk Series displayed a largely overlooked side of the greater DC area. Music was provided by Gianni Lee and great vegan food provided by Dffrnt Wrld Deli. Fashion vendors including Universal Madness, Flagship DC, Kings Rule Together, Babylon Cartel, and The Gold Diggers had many great offerings for all those in attendance. There was also two live paintings being done by Camille Safiya and Marc Bryant. It was wonderful to see so much creativity under one roof. Gianni Lee and William VaJohn took a chance to introduce a new concept to the greater DC area, and it appeared that it filled a void that DC has sadly been hosting for quality artistic events. If you missed out on this months Trunk Series be on the lookout for next months installment.

Gianni Lee on the ones and twos.

Universal Madness brought out a great selection of their classic bucket hats, hooded sweaters, and socks.

Part of the lovely Gold Digger's collection of touched up vintage pieces.

Marc Bryant working on one of his creations.

DC Monuments

Fifty degree weather in the middle of January? On days such as this it would be a shame not to be out enjoying the pollution inspired warm weather. Viewing some of the various monuments that DC has to offer I tasked myself with looking for various opportunities for great shots. As a confession, despite the time I spend in The Nation's Capital, I tend to not view much of the historical merit it has to offer. However, this New Year will present change in that area.

Korean War Memorial. ("The Endless March")

Lincoln Memorial. ("Hey, Mr. Lincoln")

New Year's Eve

In with the old, out with the new. Looking past the mass alcohol consumption, and the border line insane behavior, New Year's Eve is another instance that people slow down and celebrate their existence. The forward progression of years also offers people a new beginning; a chance to correct the flaws that they have recognized over the year. However, don't limit yourself to only making positive change once a year. Just as everyday should be a celebration, everyday is also a time for self improvement. I would like to thank all of those who have enjoyed my blog over the last few months, and I wish you and your families a blessed and safe new year. As for the above photograph, it was taken this evening at a firework display in Howard County; I enjoy the faint silhouette of the trees at the bottom of the shot.

Sugarloaf Mountain Day Hike

The weather in the greater DC area was nothing less than beautiful today, espicaly for December, so it was only right that I got out to enjoy it. Returning to a place I have many childhood memories of I decided to hike Sugarloaf Mountain for a different enviorment to photograph. I find the beauty in nature in how the elements are so rawly simple, while at the same time deeply complex. It is amazing to see things that just are; things that were not produced by any human means. Taking time to enjoy nature truly liberates the soul, and helps one come closer to understanding themselves.

FlagshipDC X DURKL Pop-Up Shop

DURKL, easily my favorite street wear company out of DC, partnered with FlagshipDC to hold the opening party of the pop-up shop that FlagshipDC will be having at DURKL for the majority of the rest of this month. First off, the space that Flagship DC worked to create was beautiful with great prints, products, and accessories. As for the products Flagship DC is one of the seldom companies on the East Coast who have contracts with brands like Fuct and Tantum LA; clothing companies which both had products at last evenings event. To top it off, Vex Ruffin of Stones Throw Records provided music and cool vibes for the event; I had the pleasure of speaking with the West Coast representer and he was a really nice guy. The event was great with dope products, architecture, and music. If you missed the opening party be sure to stop by the EYE Street store to enjoy the pop-up shop for the majority of this month.

Fuct mug, and FlagshipDC bracelets and candles.

Tantum LA's custom stitched pocket-tees.

A selection of beautiful pieces from Fuct and Tantum LA.

Vex Ruffin doing his thing, and creating dope vibes in the process.

ZooLights

Tonight I had the pleasure of enjoying a brisk evening at The National Zoo to experience their holiday light display. I found that the contrast of the lights to the night sky, throughout the Zoo, created some great photographic subjects; especially when I would focus out slightly making the lights appear as enlarged pixels. All photographs, as usual, have minimal post editing and all of the colors are true to life; enjoy.

Occupy Jail

Visiting Occupy DC is always an interesting experience. I personally credit all of the occupants with forming a small scale version of America; the diversity and culture of those who stand up to the wrath of the weather to bring their problems to the government are inspiring. Today, during my time at McPherson Square, I had the pleasure of playing a game of chess with one of the occupants, but just as we ended news of one of the occupants being arrested was announced. As far as I could grasp no one knew why the arrest was taking place and the police refused to inform any of the other occupants. The occupants told me that this is one of the key problems they have with police; arrest without justification. At this point all that can be hoped for is that our countries legal system will do its job, and justice will be served.

Tea Anyone?

Rushing here, rushing there, our generation and those that exist on Earth as a whole seem to be in such a hurry as of late. If one does not take time to enjoy the means of getting to their idealized ends they will reach their "goals" are feel unfulfilled because so much of the beauty of everyday life is in the journey to any destination. By capturing a simple tea cup, my hope was to grasp an image of warmth, and relaxation; bringing people to a peaceful place in a world which moves by so fast. Actually, I just took the picture for the sake of taking the picture, but upon reflection on the image I though it spoke of a deeper truth the the Earth at large.

Today's Photo Shoot: Fall Beauty and Beyond

Today I had the opportunity to work with two great clients; Ornell and Ebony. Working with clients who specialize in dance was a new experience, and challenge for me. However, without any challenges their is no room for growth. Through working with make up artists, wardrobe specialists, and romping around on a crisp fall day the shoot was a great experience for all in attendance. I was able to leave the shoot with a new perspective on my freelance photography work, feeling that I had taken a big step in the progression of my photography journey.

Ebony posing in a outfit mixing modern style with that of the early 1900's.

One of Ornell's headshots; the sweater vest combo was great for the crisp fall weather.

Behind the scenes: having a good shoot is truly a group effort. Through pulling resources, and feeding off creativity great products come into existence.

One Month Anniversary

As of yesterday, Capture The CAPITAL has been taking up cyberspace for a month's time. I would like to take this opportunity to give my thanks to all the readers who enjoy virtually sharing interests with me. In just a month, I have been able to hit over 800 page views both in and out of the United States; which is pretty dope in my opinion. Through my photography, I hope you enjoy seeing the world through my eyes. Stay blessed.

photo credit: Jada

Secret Shogun

On most Saturday evenings, if for some reason you are trying to locate me, you can find me at Everlasting Life Cafe off Georgia Ave. Last night, while I was enjoying an open mic. at the venue during the starting cypher a unique face showed. I have no idea where this man came from, but he decided to make a memorable presence. With his anime inspired overcoat he preformed various "hard-core" poems,  verbally assaulted the host, and preformed some unique dance moves; all said and done he was one of the highlights on the evening in accordance with iconicness. 

Fresh Noodle

View on Flickr: Here
While taking one of my weekly photo walks with a fellow creative, Erik, I stumbled upon this Chinese Restaurant, and was astounded by the photo value that it possessed. Seeing the noodle chef in the window beside the entrance with the neon "open" sign it was a great street shot. However, I sadly did not take down the name of the restaurant. If you want to check it out the location is right at the intersection of H and 6 Street, near Gallery. 

Judiciary Square: The Watching Lion

View on Flickr: Here
I found myself looking for a new place to take a walk, attempting to enjoy the last few warm days of 2011. I made the decision to check out Judiciary Square. I had ridden past the metro stop countless times, but never had any business to stop. This day was no different in the fact that I had no business to visit Judiciary Square, but I decided to take a detour in making my way to DURKL for DTMD's album release party. While I was scouting out Judiciary Square I found this magnificent lion sculpture; which is part of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. I found the accompanying quote equally captivating: "The wicked flee when no man pursueth, but the righteous are as bold as a lion." (Proverbs 28:1)