Down the stairs

French Journal Day 164 (Travel Diary Day 244)

With the snow subsiding and the promise of a beautiful sunset, Rachel and I scaled the steps of the Arch de Triumph with a friend of ours, Wendy.

Earlier we’d visited the grave of Jim Morrison. Although a tiny, unassuming grave amongst huge structures, this was clearly the most visited spot, with people all around looking in, some laying flowers.

It was odd to think that princes and princesses lie in this graveyard, yet a 27-year-old musician draws the most attention. I understood, however, why it had that allure. Everything about the grave, including the iconic black and white photo of him topless, seemed somehow fitting and at the same time very real. On the other hand, the hundreds of graves around us had names inscribed that conjoured up nothing despite their obvious wealth and power.

Standing on the top of the Arch de Triumph, we braved the biting wind and watched the beautiful sunset. I was asked twice to put my tripod away. I didn’t want be asked a third time – I thought I might be pushing my luck. A blue hour, long exposure shot, therefore, will have to wait until a later date.

Today’s Photo – the main steps of Opera Garnier

Just after being kicked out of Opera Garnier for closing time, I stood and waited at the bottom of the stairs for the last of the tourists to clear out before I fired off a few hand-held shots.

See my tutorial for the workflow I used here – http://www.hdrone.com/beginners-hdr-photography-course-art-of-hdr/