Good morning, evening and possibly night in some places. Im being optimistic and guessing I have a few viewers in different time zones. Possibly Japan, Jamaica, Europe or even Australia. Who knows, but there’s no reason to make anyone feel left out. If not that’s ok their page is still buffering or their likely still typing in the web address. But, for all of you here, I decided to continue the London picture detour with a few images from my home town. Although nowhere near as historic, Charlotte NC makes up for its young age with spacious parks and gorgeous sky lines. I figured why not show not only where I have gone but also where I come from. So, let’s get to it. 
For starters charlotte NC offers several attractions. Attractions ranging from Carowinds amusement park which boasts the largest giga coaster in the world (Fury 325) to the various museums including Discover place Children’s Museum. Charlott is also home to the Panthers football team and the Hornets basketball team.
This is all fine and dandy but what happens to charlotte after hours? When everyone heads home and the city sleeps, one can’t help but wonder what is going on in all of those parks and skyscrapers. I decided to head out and see for myself what downtown charlotte looks like once the daily commuters vacate.
To my surprise, the city is just as if not more spectacular at night than during the day. The temperature has significantly dropped providing a comfortable setting for some night photography. I headed over to a few locations to capture images of the sky line and recreational parks contained in charlottes uptown. The Bank of America corporate building along with duke power energy building are the two most notable structures gracing charlotte. Specifically, the Duke power building gradually shifts between various colors providing a persistent visual refreshment for charlotte natives. Capturing images of this structure is always exciting because you never know which color will present itself next.
Following capturing the skyline, I also decided to head towards Romare Bearden Park. This park is relatively new in comparison to the larger parks along the outskirts of charlotte. This park sports several modern designs including a wide assortment of flowers and the highlight of the park, a waterfall. Every few minutes the water is illuminated with various colors which is accented by several LED lights placed throughout the waterfalls base.
This park sites and sounds after hours creates a very romantic environment which is commonly taken full advantage of by charlotte residents. Several people were out the night I chose to shoot but few seemed to even notice the camera flashes and tripods now littering the parks grounds.
Hopefully I will get around to returning to this park to photograph a few other ideas I have for night photography. Maybe something involving light painting or fireworks will fit the scene. That is of course of the police do not shut my operation down before it even begins.
If you plan to visit Charlotte make sure you return to uptown following sunset. The city certainly shows a more elegant and peaceful side compared to its bustling afternoon and morning counterpart. I guarantee you will not be disappointed.
After Hours Gallery
