Skip to Main Content
Photographing Washington, D.C.: Digital Field Guide
book

Photographing Washington, D.C.: Digital Field Guide

by John Healey
March 2010
Intermediate to advanced content levelIntermediate to advanced
318 pages
6h 29m
English
Wiley
Content preview from Photographing Washington, D.C.: Digital Field Guide

Chapter 16. Smithsonian Institution Castle

Smithsonian Institution Castle

The Smithsonian Institution Castle seen from the National Mall in the morning. Taken at ISO 100, f/8, 1/320 second with a 70mm lens.

Why It's Worth a Photograph

A standout even on the National Mall, the Smithsonian Institution Building — known simply as The Castle — was the first building of what is now a research institute and museum campus. Near the building's north entrance is the crypt of James Smithson, the English scientist whose name the Institution bears.

The red sandstone and design of the building makes it particularly photogenic, along with the immaculately tended gardens that surround it.

Where Can I Get the Best Shot?

The Castle has many good angles, as well as much to see within its gardens. It's definitely a rare opportunity to have access to such a unique building.

The best locations from which to photograph the Smithsonian Institution Castle: (A) the south-side garden and (B) the north side of the castle. Nearby photo ops: (9)National Air and Space Museum, (10) National Archives, (11) National Mall, (14) OldPost Office, and (27) Washington Monument.

Figure 16.1. The best locations from which to photograph the Smithsonian Institution Castle: (A) the south-side garden and (B) the north side of the castle. Nearby photo ops: (9)National Air and Space Museum, (10) National Archives, (11) National Mall, (14) OldPost Office, and (27) Washington Monument.

The southside garden

A lovely view of a gorgeous building, this is definitely the side to spend your time photographing. The north side of the building is attractive, but this ...

Become an O’Reilly member and get unlimited access to this title plus top books and audiobooks from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers, thousands of courses curated by job role, 150+ live events each month,
and much more.
Start your free trial

You might also like

Photographing New York City: Digital Field Guide

Photographing New York City: Digital Field Guide

Jeremy Pollack, Andy Williams
The iPad Project Book: Stuff you can do with your iPad

The iPad Project Book: Stuff you can do with your iPad

Michael E. Cohen, Dennis R. Cohen, Lisa L. Spangenberg

Publisher Resources

ISBN: 9780470586877Purchase book