Photographing Washington, D.C.: Digital Field Guide

Chapter 25. United States National Arboretum

Fall begins at the United States National Arboretum. Taken at ISO 100, f/4, 1/400 second with a 90mm lens.

Why It's Worth a Photograph

The United States National Arboretum is a living museum of some 400 acres filled with woodlands, meadows, unique plant collections, and research areas. The museum offers the largest designed herb garden in the U.S., and it houses the National Bonsai and Penjing Museum, a showcase of the Asian art of miniature trees.

The arboretum has one of the more unique sights in Washington, D.C.: the National Capitol Columns. These Corinthian columns were part of the Capitol's east portico prior to the installation of the massive dome. The dome was quite larger than the original designs had specified, and these columns appeared too small and out of balance with the structure. In 1958, the Capitol's east side received a makeover, and the columns were removed and marble reproductions were put in their place. Today, 22 of the 24 columns sit atop a meadow within the National Arboretum. It's a beautiful, tranquil place to both visit and photograph.

Figure 25.1. The best locations from which to photograph the United States National Arboretum: (A) the Capitol Columns from the southeast intersection of Ellipse Rd. NE and Beechwood ...