Explore Washington D.C. Through Dynamic Mural and Abstract Street Photography
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Light walking on mostly flat urban pavement requires basic fitness level.
Overview
Discover Washington D.C.’s vibrant street art and hidden urban patterns on a guided 2-hour photo safari with expert photographer Kent Lewis. Capture murals, abstract details, and historic neighborhoods in a unique visual exploration.
Mural and Abstract Street Photography: Murals to the Mundane
2 Hr. Safari | $109
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Join a vibrant photo safari through Washington, D.C., led by expert photographer Kent Lewis. Capture stunning murals, historic landmarks, and unique abstract images while exploring the city’s rich cultural tapestry. This immersive experience combines art, history, and photography, making it a memorable adventure for both digital camera and smartphone users.
Rates
Photographer: $109
Duration
2 hours
About
This safari is designed for digital camera and smartphone users alike! The photo safari begins at 8th Street and Florida Avenue Northwest and we make our way slowly through the streets, photographing all of the colorful mural art that greets us along the way. Instructor Kent Lewis will provide instruction on how one can extract abstract images from colorful murals and the mundane as well as how to photograph the colorful murals around you.
We will find, for example, a memorial to Duke Ellington, the famous jazz pianist who was born in a house in Shaw, we will find colorful swaths of paint on many of the building walls and alleys. Many of the pictures have been done by DC’s premier mural artist, Aneikan Udofia, who has been commissioned by the city to decorate its walls.
Our photo Safari also takes us to the iconic Howard Theater, the Lincoln Theater, and to the famous Ben’s Chili Bowl, the black owned business that survived the 1968 riots and has been a favorite stomping ground for Barack and Michelle Obama.
To give you an idea of the types of abstracts you can make, visit Kent's website at: https://kentlewisphoto.com/p942616139
Here are samples of the colorful images you will get on this safari
Along the way we will also photograph the unique African American Civil War Memorial, dedicated to the Black soldiers who fought in the Union Army in order to help defeat the cause of slavery.
Our Safari ends at 16th and U where you will find a huge portrait of one of the most popular women in the country, the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
What to Bring
- Camera or Smartphone
- Lenses
- Extra memory cards
- Extra charged battery
- Accessories such as filters
- Weather appropriate clothing
Where to Meet
Meet at southwest corner of 8th Street and Florida Ave NW (put 800 Florida Avenue NW in your GPS), some parking available on nearby streets, closest METRO is Shaw/Howard University at 1701 8th St NW]. Safari ends at 16th and U St. NW.
Your Instructor
N. Kent Lewis is a DC- based abstract, landscape and street photographer who has for decades photographed the streets and people of Europe, Asia, and the Western Hemisphere from Alaska to Argentina. Trained in the arts since early childhood, Kent’s images have appeared in several publications, juried and solo exhibitions. Kent has received accolades as an exceptional abstract photographer exploring the concept of aleatoric or “found” art in an amongst the mundane and detritus in our everyday world. Kent's brings to light a unique compositional perspective with emphasis on form and texture when incorporating elements from nature or man-made infrastructure.
Mr. Lewis recently retired after 33 years as a career executive in the US Federal Government. Mr. Lewis is a graduate of George Washington University and the American High School in Mexico City and US Army veteran with native fluency in Spanish.
@Kent_Lewis_Perezcano
Kentlewisphoto.com
Adventure Tips
Carry a versatile camera
Bring a camera that handles various lighting conditions well to capture both bright murals and shadowed details.
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be walking city streets and sidewalks—comfortable footwear will keep you focused on shooting.
Scout light conditions
Morning and late afternoon provide soft, directional light that enhances texture and color in photos.
Stay aware of traffic
Urban environments require attentiveness to vehicles and pedestrians when composing shots near roads.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Pigeons
- Squirrels
History
Many murals reflect local political and social movements unique to Washington D.C.'s urban communities.
Conservation
The tour encourages respectful engagement with public art and pedestrian-friendly urban sustainability.
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Adventure Hotspots in Washington
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Camera or smartphone
Essential for capturing the street murals and abstract city details.
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for navigating urban streets comfortably during the tour.
Light jacket or layers
Spring weather can be unpredictable; layers keep you comfortable.
spring specific
Portable battery charger
Ensures your device stays powered for extended shooting sessions.