New York completely overwhelmed me from the very first moment. It was my first trip to the city and at the same time my first stay in the United States. I wanted to take in as much as possible instead of constantly looking through the viewfinder. Even so, a number of photos were taken during those days, many of them in square format and black and white.
Day 1: overwhelmed by everything
After arriving, which felt like it consisted mostly of waiting, the route went straight from the hotel in Brooklyn to Manhattan. That first attempt to somehow grasp this incredible city was overwhelming. The first photos were taken along the way. And yes, like a proper tourist, a bus ride was part of the day too.
Day 2: Brooklyn and a lot of walking
On the second day, there was a lot of walking, including a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge.
Day 3: the highlight of the day, the helicopter flight
My personal highlight was the helicopter flight, which had been a birthday present. In the evening, the route continued towards Brooklyn Bridge Park, where a number of photos of the New York skyline at night were taken.
During the flight, I was sitting by the window and shortly before landing I was finally able to take the skyline photo I had been hoping for.
Day 4: a lot experienced, very little photographed
Day four included a visit to B & H Photo. Their logistics concept is incredible and definitely worth seeing.
Day 5: New York Fashion Week, Pharrell Williams, and Jimmy Fallon
On the fifth day, it rained a little for the first time. The days before had been full sunshine with temperatures above 30 degrees. So the morning started a little more quietly before it was time to head to New York Fashion Week. One of the shows on the schedule was by Desigual. The seats were more or less directly opposite Lena Meyer Landrut and Laverne Cox from Orange Is the New Black.
In the evening, there was also the chance to follow a recording of Jimmy Fallon’s “Tonight Show” from the street. His guest was none other than Pharrell Williams. Awesome.
Day 6: shaped by 9/11
It was 9/11, and that could already be felt at the beginning of the day. First came the free ferry to Staten Island, including another view of the skyline. After returning, there was a short stop at the WTC Memorial. Even on the way there, the heavy police presence was noticeable. It felt like there were several police cars and plenty of officers every 50 metres.
The stay there remained brief. Afterwards, the route continued towards the High Line Park, with a short stop at Chelsea Market beforehand. In the evening, the way led back once more to Brooklyn Bridge Park to photograph the 9/11 Memorial.
Day 7: Top of the Rock
Unfortunately, day seven was rainy again. In the evening, it was time for Rockefeller Center and then up to a great height. I stayed a little longer on purpose so that the obligatory night shots could be taken as well.
Day 8: shopping until dropping
Day eight was all about shopping and almost no photography at all. The image right at the top was the only one I really wanted to show.
Day 9: Williamsburg and departure
Originally, this day had been reserved for Williamsburg. But this part of Brooklyn did not quite match my expectations. So it was back towards the hotel, exploring the surrounding area a little more. Along the way, a beautiful and large park appeared, and the last hours were spent there. After that, it was time to head to the airport and leave New York. For now.