Step into Battery Park City for a photography class that covers an extraordinary range of subjects and techniques within just a few blocks along the scenic Hudson River. In a single session, you will work on park landscapes, waterscapes, architectural compositions, and environmental portraits, all without traveling more than three blocks from your starting point.
If you have time to linger, Battery Park City faces west across the Hudson, offering the possibility of spectacular sunset photography depending on cloud conditions. At any point in the day, there are rich opportunities for city skyline photography along the waterfront.
The 92 acres of Battery Park City, roughly two-thirds of which is parkland, were actually created from excavated earth: material removed during the construction of the World Trade Center and the New York City Water Tunnel. This extraordinary history makes it a uniquely interesting environment to photograph, with photo opportunities at every turn.
The park's multilevel design introduces natural lessons in leading lines and the rule of thirds. Look for repeating elements, unexpected angles, and depth created by the layered terrain. There are also outstanding opportunities for macro photography: approximately 50 small, whimsical sculptures are attached to the ground, mounted on benches, and tucked among the trees. Your instructor will demonstrate how a focused composition on one of these figures produces a haunting, intimate portrait, while a slight step back and an adjusted angle incorporates the skyline into the frame for a completely different effect.
Light and shadow play throughout the space: filtering through fence openings, falling in long geometric lines from columns and gazebos, and catching beautifully on groups of people and their dogs resting on park benches.
Environmental portraits are plentiful: street artists at work, vendors selling produce and lunches to passersby, commuters, skateboarders, and pedestrians all contribute to the rich, dynamic visual character of this neighborhood.
For motion and action, pigeons in flight and dogs in the adjacent dog park provide ideal subjects for practicing shutter speed control, and passing yellow cabs open up opportunities for panning technique.
Please note: If a class must be cancelled due to weather or other circumstances outside our control, we will work with you to reschedule. If you need to cancel and require a new class date, please contact us. A $25 transfer fee applies to reschedule requests without 3 days' notice before the scheduled class.
