This is a fitting way to honor the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing-and-return. The life-size, 363-foot image of a Saturn rocket is projected onto the 555-foot Washington Monument. What a brilliant way to commemorate this remarkable event! Image #08405, by Weetie and Wayne Hill.

In this image by artist Wayne Hill, you can appreciate the alignment of the Capitol, Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial.  Enjoy this view as the calm of evening visits our Nation's Capital.  Image # 05753.

Artist Wayne Hill realized that few people get to see the Jefferson Memorial from above.  It is a rare visual treat!  Image # 36271.

One of the newest memorials in Washington, DC is the World War II Memorial, beautifully situated between the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument.  Honoring the Atlantic and Pacific theaters of that war, as well as each of the fifty states, it is a powerful tribute to the profound struggle that engaged the United States on two fronts for five years.  Image # 06205.

The skyline of our Nation's Capital is spectacular from this vantage point high above the Iwo Jima memorial in Virginia.  Artist  Wayne Hill returned to this spot numerous times to record just the right light to match the importance of this powerful perspective.  Image # 05748.

it is easy to get caught up in the activities and preparations around Christmas.  The wreaths placed on each panel at the Vietnam Memorial are silent reminders of the service and sacrifice many thousands of service men and women made on our behalf.  This image was made at dawn on Christmas Eve.  Image # 07179.

A visit to the Vietnam Memorial has impact at any time.  Try coming at dawn on Christmas Eve, to be joined only by the arriving sunrise and dozens of wreaths placed in honor of the fallen.  This setting is particularly powerful without any other people here.   Image # 07180.

The Cemetery stretches over more than 600 acres of rolling tribute to our fallen military heroes.  Image # 07969.

The calm that surrounds these fields of the fallen stands in marked contrast to the violence that most of those encountered to defend our precious freedom.  Image # 07970.

These miniature American flags are carefully placed in front of every one of the many thousands of tombstones, to remind us of the true meaning of Memorial Day.  Image # 07971.

Any visit to Arlington National Cemetery invites dignity and respect.  In May of 2014, the cemetery celebrated 150 years of honoring fallen military soldiers, sailors and later airmen.  Image # 07972.

The Jefferson Memorial is surrounded by 26 Ionic columns symbolizing the 26 states in the Union at the end of Jefferson's term as President.  Artist Wayne Hill portrays the character and strength of this leader as symbolized by this classical monument.  Image # 35323.

Jefferson as president projected both strength and classic elegance in his style as leader.  These qualities also apply to each of the Ionic columns surrounding the Jefferson Memorial.  Image # 35324.

This elegant sculpture anchors Lady Bird Johnson park on the bank of the Potomac River, honoring the often-overlooked members of the Merchant Marines.  Image # 36716.

This is one of the most-loved (and most-photographed) places in the Nation's Capital, captured in peak bloom by artist Wayne Hill. The main reason this image is so good is that six feet away, Willard Scott was supervising Wayne, before his Today Show weather feature that morning.   Image # 36966.

This image projects the power and classic orientation of our third president, the author of the Declaration of Independence. Artist Wayne Hill made this photograph at 2:30 am to avoid other visitors. Image # 37050.

There are few statues that project more dignity and power than this one.  Image # 37066.

Few places in Washington offer more beauty, more tranquility, or a more timeless perspective than the Tidal Basin at dawn. Even though the cherry blossoms were the main reason for artist Wayne Hill to visit this morning, he loved the serenity and importance of this place as the sun prepared to rise behind the Jefferson Memorial.  Image # 37217.

Vietnam.  It is a powerful name relating to a place, and to poignant memories for many who served in this war.  Artist Wayne Hill created this image to honor those who served (as he did during this time).  Image # 38121.

The Jefferson Memorial anchors the Tidal Basin, and both are beautiful from above.  The artist created this image from a helicopter well after the cherry blossoms and crowds had departed.  Image # 01025.

The perfect alignment of the Lincoln Memorial, Reflecting Pool, Washington Monument, Mall and the Capitol are evident from this image the artist made from a helicopter.  Image # 01032.

Artist Wayne Hill made this striking photograph from a helicopter five years before 9/11/01, not knowing how powerful it would be today. It is fitting to locate one of the world's most powerful buildings in view of the beautiful skyline of our nation's capitol. When the Pentagon was built, it was the largest building in the world, and remains a symbol of the gift of freedom provided by our magnificent men and women serving in the Armed Forces.  Image # 01074.

This statue of Abraham Lincoln is one of the most impressive of any in Washington, DC.  His presence is felt by every visitor after climbing the steps.  Each of us is torn between standing in awe at this statue, or turning the opposite direction to the powerful view across the Reflecting Pool to the Washington Monument and on to the Capitol.  Image # 01157.

Perhaps the most impressive military memorial in the Capital Region is this sculpture depicting the heroic raising of our flag during a battle on Iwo Jima more than 75 years ago.  Artist Wayne Hill loves the quiet of dawn, just before sunrise, when the power of this sculptural statement is enormous.  Image # 01189. 

If you want a jump-start of American patriotism, there may be no better place to be  than Iwo Jima before sunrise.  Image # 1189-R.

This is one of the most-loved (and most-photographed) places in the Nation's Capital, captured in peak bloom by artist Wayne Hill. The main reason this image is so good is that six feet away, Willard Scott was supervising Wayne, before his Today Show weather feature that morning.   Image #002182.

President Franklin Roosevelt mastered the medium of radio, in his weekly fireside chats with millions of Americans who relied on him and his New Deal government to restore financial stability and progress during the Great Depression.  This stirring sculpture is one small part of the impressive FDR Memorial in Washington, D.C.  Image # 02347.

Few places in metro Washington, DC are as impressive as the Amphitheater in Arlington National Cemetery during the Easter sunrise service.  You will sense a dignified patriotism that supports the phrase, "In God We Trust".  Image # 03697.

This is an elegant perspective to view the Washington Monument and Capitol.  It took nine visits before sunrise before artist Wayne Hill was able to record the quiet power of this special place.  Image # 05415.

This complex memorial is filled with strong symbolism and is very thought-provoking.  There are 19 stainless steel statues advancing across a field.  Behind it is a complex mural wall of many personnel who supported the foot soldiers.  Image # 06226.

Here is an almost-abstract view of the tip of the Washington Monument trapped between the two buildings of the National Gallery of Art.  Image # 36350.

When this remarkable building was built before 1900, it was the largest brick building in the world. It was known for its first hundred years as "the Pension Building", and now houses The National Building Museum. It is one of the most impressive interiors in America.  I first saw this interior early in the evening as I arrived to photograph an Inaugural Ball.  I was more impressed with this amazing atrium than with all the VIPs.  Image # 01098.

All is calm and quiet on Capitol Hill, which is rather rare. This view from the west is one of my favorite perspectives on the U. S. Capitol. Who would imagine that a busy highway passes underneath this reflecting pool?  Image # 01119.

This impressive statue projects the strength and vision of our first president, George Washington. Where do you think it is? Image #36964.

Few places in Washington project more dignity than the Supreme Court. Completed in 1935, it features classic Corinthian columns and projects importance.  The wonderful detail travels all the way around the building. It was completed under its budget of $10M (I doubt that would happen today).  Image # 01136.

I created this portrait of America's most famous residence, which is a diverse symbol to most Americans depending on their view of the current occupant.  This is the ultimate "home office."  Image # 01148.

This is a dramatic view of the huge American flags that hang on the west front of the U. S. Capitol one day every four years, as the perfect backdrop for the Presidential Inaugural ceremony.  Ask me to tell you the story behind this photograph...   Image # 04858.

The National Archives is an important stop when visiting Washington, D.C.  Before entering, enjoy the ornate carving above the main entrance. I know that they don't build 'em like this today!  This gem was built long before "value engineering"!  Image # 04917.

This magnificent Capitol rotunda presides above ornate sculptures, 8 historic paintings each 12' wide, and key statues of American leaders.  This rotunda is the symbolic heart of the Capitol.  Image # 07248.

When the President enters the chamber to address Congress, we who watch on TV always see his entrance from the side with Congress.  Here is the corridor leading to that entrance door.  Image # 07250.

This higher-altitude aerial image contains a lot of information about architectural Washington, and reveals fascinating detail about the plan for the mall and monuments. I used to see old D.C. Transit buses bearing the destination "Federal Triangle" and wondered what it meant. The infamous "triangle" is much more obvious from a helicopter than from the ground. Image # 36162.

Most visitors are drawn to the overall perspective of the majestic interior of the National Building Museum.  I was intrigued by these columns, located on the long sides of the upper floors.  He has used this image in innovative mirror combinations in corners of offices.  Image # 37022.

I was inspired by the classic look of this crisp American flag flying above the east front of the U. S. Capitol.  Image # 36272.

Peeking between the two buildings of the National Gallery of Art in Washington is the Washington Monument.  Image # 36350.

There is calm on Capitol Hill.  The hot air that so often tarnishes what we learned in civics class has been cleansed by the fresh snow, seen in this dawn image # 36484.  We are left to admire one very beautiful and impressive building.

Azaleas at their peak add a colorful foreground to this May portrait of the U S. Capitol.  Image # 36698.

A striking view of an impressive building that is not usually this tranquil.  Image # 36824.

In front of the Air & Space Museum sits this very contemporary sculpture.  It is elegant and provocative, and hardly appreciated.  Image # 36849.

Few places in Washington display more dignity than the Supreme Court. Completed in 1935, it features classic Corinthian columns and projects importance. It was completed under its budget of $10M (that would not happen today).  I was amused at the discoloration of the center steps, clearly a sign of too many lawyers.  Image # 01137.

The room beneath the Capitol dome and rotunda is ornate and definitely projects "character".  Image # 07249.

It is hard to grasp the scope of this remarkable room.  It would be very easy to get a sore neck staring straight up for as long as you'd like to admire this magnificent "ceiling" in the Capitol!  The dome rises 180' in the air, and the rotunda is 180' in diameter.  Image # 07247.

The gardens at Dumbarton Oaks are my very favorite place in Washington, D.C. They provide an oasis of calm and natural beauty in the midst of a very busy city. Designed by renowned landscape architect Beatrice Ferrand over seventy years ago, she laid out the sloping site in a series of "rooms" - this image shows a part of the English Country Garden.  These formal gardens are a hidden gem in Georgetown. Whenever you want to go, I will be delighted to go with you!  Image # 01084.

This large-format panoramic image conveys the power of the Potomac River as it descends through Great Falls at dawn.  Virginia is on your left and Maryland is on your right.  Many people consider Great Falls National Park to be the most spectacular natural landmark in the Capital Region.  Here the Potomac builds up speed and force as it cascades down several 20-foot waterfalls before it flows through the narrow Mather Gorge enroute to the city of Washington.  Image # 02283.

Rock Creek Park is truly a gem in our Nation's Capital. It offers visitors an opportunity to reflect and soothe their spirits through the beauty of nature. Fresh air, majestic trees, wild animals, the ebb and flow of the Rock Creek, and thousands of years of human history are collectively working so we can enjoy the delicate aura of the forest in the midst of a vibrant city. Image # 07591.

In Rock Creek Park in Washington, D.C., there are a dozen bridges that cross the Rock Creek, and the Boulder Bridge is among the oldest. It was built in 1902 at a cost of only $17,600. It is beautiful and was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Image # 07592.

Artist Wayne Hill grew up near Rock Creek Park, and took the creek itself for granted.  Later in life, his eye was trained to find beauty in nature, and here is one result that you can see and hear.  Listen...   Image # 35954.

This is my favorite tree in the Nation's Capital. It is located in Dumbarton Oaks, near the Orangery, and is magnificent in the fall.  Ironically, it is not an oak tree, but an American Beech with impressive roots. Image # 36087.

Lafayette Park sits just in front of the White House in Washington, D.C., and is a beautiful place when not filled with protesters. The White House and these gardens maintain their dignity regardless of the day's headlines.  Now, security barriers and high fencing had replaced the look of approachability this Image suggests.  # 36334.

The dramatic statue of Marquis de Lafayette presides over the park bearing his name in Washington, D.C.  On this snowy winter morning, I made this photograph just before the sun and the city came to life.  There really is a beautiful garden and flower beds somewhere underneath the white stuff.   Image # 36630.

Every visitor to Washington knows the Smithsonian "castle" facing the mall.  Few wander behind it, where these lovely gardens are located. They occupy over four acres, and are actually developed on a rooftop for other Smithsonian galleries, and are called the Enid A. Haupt gardens, endowed by the noted horticultural philanthropist.  Image # 36778.

Dumbarton Oaks is my favorite place in the Nation's Capital.  I have lingered at at this table a dozen times, enjoyed the Italian water gardens just beyond, and soak up the timeless classical character of this oasis with every visit.  Image # 37002.

Fireworks are always fun to watch, and one of the best vantage points to watch the annual display over the mall is from the Virginia shore.  I found this subject to be very difficult to photograph (due to the extremes of light from the firework blossoms and firework strobes), yet it showcases a patriotic view of our Nations Capital.  Image # 01002.

I made this photograph from a helicopter to show Georgetown University presiding over the Potomac River from the high ground above.  There are often interesting activities at the historic boathouse on the shore.  Image # 01050.

I made this photograph from a helicopter, with Georgetown University presiding over the Potomac River from the high ground above. Some people find this very relaxing and a unique way to enjoy the Potomac.  Several kayakers actively waved at the artist - not to be friendly, but to suggest he take his downdraft somewhere else!   Image # 01051.

The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has become an icon for culture in Washington, hosting more than 2,000 performances each year.  Enjoy the counterpoint of the massive building confronted by the tiny sunfish in the foreground.  Image # 01059.

I had the door removed from a helicopter so I could make this image of shells moving up river near Georgetown University on a summer morning.  Yes, it's a job.  Image # 01066.

Professor Albert Einstein was indeed the original nerd.  Perhaps the most popular statue in Washington, DC is this lovable likeness of the Professor. Crafted by sculptor Robert Berks using a palette technique, the professor is sitting there larger than life, and apparently spent his entire life having a bad hair day.  In this portrait, I take you to visit with my favorite professor - who does not even care if you show up for class.  Image # 01165.

Just like gardens in Paris, you can have the Mall to yourself to enjoy if you go very early. This is my favorite time to be in the city, before Starbucks arouses the power people.  Walk or jog around the monuments and museums, with the Capitol at one end and the Washington Monument at the other - you will be reminded that this indeed is a special place.  Image # 01177.

This panoramic image conveys the power of the Potomac River as it descends through Great Falls at dawn.  Virginia is on your left and Maryland is on your right.  Many people consider Great Falls National Park to be the most spectacular natural landmark in the Capital Region.  Here the Potomac builds up speed and force as it cascades down several 20-foot waterfalls before it flows through the narrow Mather Gorge enroute to the city of Washington.  Image # 02283.

This looks like a very close race, and it looks a lot easier than it really is.  These shells are skimming over the Potomac near Georgetown as lazy artist Wayne Hill observed from the Key Bridge.  Image # 02295.

The C&O Canal is a holdover from 175 years ago, when barge freighters drawn by mules carried cargo from the Potomac all the way to the Ohio River.  Now we enjoy it for recreation.  Walk or jog along the towpath, or rent a boat or canoe and travel in the slow lane on the canal.  It's waiting for you.  Image # 02341.

 If you happen upon the Virginia shore of the Potomac River before sunrise, you will often see shells practicing for crew races. I know they are sleek and graceful from a distance, although they extract serious effort if you are in one!  Image # 05412.

Valentine's Day creates interesting options for couples.  These two chose to circumnavigate the Tidal Basin on their bikes soon after a snowfall.  I made this photograph while I was still in grad school, and it was chosen by Hallmark for a greeting card.  I've never seen the card, but their royalty check to me did clear the bank.  Image # 35341.

One of the most respected races in America is the Marine Corps Marathon.  Here is the winner crossing the finish line on the top of the hill at Iwo Jima. in amazing time.  To runners approaching the end of a grueling race, that final hill is a mountain.  Image # 36276.

This reflection is nearly an abstract, and caught the artist's eye early one morning, as he walked around the Reflecting Pool. He was testing a telephoto lens, which compressed the elements into a compelling composition.  Image # 36331.

Up, up and away!    This was a one-hour summer attempt by U.S. Senate staffers to earn a place in the Guinness Book for the most Frisbees in the air at one place at one time. This took place on a field where the American Indian Museum now sits, and It was successful:  your tax dollars work hard!   Image # 36518.

The Revolutionary War hero Marquis de Lafayette presides over his square, and seems to be wishing each occupant of the White House the best of luck in moving our great country forward.  Image # 36630.

There are wonderful town homes (in the true sense of the word) along the C&O Canal in Georgetown, with excellent restaurants nearby.  Take a stroll and imagine what this area must have looked like when the canal was actually in operation 150 years ago.  Image # 36671.

Few gatherings of people are more impressive than Marines in dress uniforms.  These musicians were playing near the finish line for the Marine Marathon.  The weekly "parades" that the Marines perform at Iwo Jima and at the Navy Yard are memorable.  The Marines indeed are the few and the proud.  Image # 36700.

This may well be the most imposing eagle in the Nation's Capital, surveying Constitution Avenue from atop the Federal Reserve headquarters.  Artist Wayne Hill believes this is the only eagle free from protective wires on other buildings that are used to deter pigeons.  Image # 36704.

Spectacular, patriotic, memorable.  Enough said.  Image # 36979.

The pulse of the Metro system in Washington, DC is the two-level Metro Center.  It is tolerated by many commuters and loved by many visitors, and after millions of passenger miles still retains a clean, contemporary look.  Image # 37063.

This is a whimsical example of the spontaneous fun you can have in Washington, D.C.  When the snow arrives, leave your car in your driveway, make the best of the weather by strapping on your boards - and making lemonade.  Image # 36513.

This whimsical sculpture was crafted in 1999 by Oldenburg and van Bruggen.  Made of stainless steel and fiberglass, nearly 7 feet high, it is located in the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden.  Sorry to say I actually used one of these (normal size) when making corrections on a manual typewriter.  Image # 04926.