Arlington National Cemetery

On Saturday, I went to Arlington National Cemetery and participated in the Wreaths Across America project. It was a humbling experience to pay respect to our deceased warfighters and their families, reflect on their contributions to our country, and remember them through the laying of evergreen wreaths on their gravesites. The speeches given at the opening ceremony were incredibly touching, especially one by a Gold Star Mother who described the pain of losing her son to the current war and her efforts to do all she can so that he will never be forgotten.

Copyright (C) 2009 Mary Weiland

I brought both my Nikon D90 and infrared-converted Nikon D80 to the event. I didn’t take pictures during the laying of wreaths, but took pictures after the three truckloads of wreaths had been distributed. My intention was to take both color and infrared pictures, but I ended up only taking infrareds. I may go back this Saturday with my D90 and get some color shots – the red bows on the evergreen wreaths were beautiful and should be captured. It just so happened that by the time the wreath-laying was over, it was late morning and the sun was strong.

Copyright (C) 2009 Mary Weiland

Some of the pictures in this post didn’t have to be shot using infrared. Part of me was experimenting since this was only my second time using the converted camera and I’m getting an idea for what I like and don’t like. And, in all honesty, some things happened so quickly (like the changing of the guards), that trying to use both cameras was more of an ordeal than I wanted. I have easy access to the cemetery, and knew in the back of my mind that I could come back anytime for another photo shoot.

Copyright (C) 2009 Mary Weiland

Copyright (C) 2009 Mary Weiland

Some conclusions from the day's shoot: I think the tombstones, grass and leafless trees in winter look especially cold and eerie with infrared. I do not think people look much different in infrared than regular black and white. This is okay to me – I think it still makes for a nice documentary shot, but the specialty of infrared really lies with foliage. I like the look of the street signs against the dark sky, but think this could be replicated with regular black and white and a red filter. I'm still learning and most definitely having fun – but this Saturday was really about giving time to a worthy cause and I'm thankful I was able to help and be a witness to it.

Copyright (C) 2009 Mary Weiland