
There are all sorts of tutorials on how to do night shots of cities. Most recommend long exposures, which leads to tripods, vibration, and problems. I did this one from the Franklin Avenue bridge over Interstate 35W, a slightly dodgy spot where you don’t want to hang around with expensive photo gear. And I wanted something different from the typical smooth river of headlights.
To get a sharp skyline and a sense of motion in the traffic, I layered a whole bunch of shorter, handheld shots – and it was a bit of work. But I like the end result – I think the traffic looks like sparks flying, sort of “industrial”.

A late winter storm puts a twinkle in the eye of this Nuthatch.
“Dead Tree Dancing”
Some trickery was needed to get close to this Pileated woodpecker. I love that eye.
Art Deco: the Baker Center building in Minneapolis
Minneapolis and Interstate 94 as it’s getting dark
A stoic Cardinal hangs tough in a Minnesota snowstorm

Trees after an ice storm: ten thousand glass branches.

Chiaroscuro: the interplay of light and shadow.