Cherry Blossoms

It's not really spring in Washington, D.C. until the cherry blossoms are in bloom. Last Thursday a friend and I braved the crowds that flock to the National Cherry Blossom Festival and attempted to leisurely stroll around the tidal basin to see this year's crop of delicate, pinkish-white flowers. We also got kicked off the steps of the Jefferson Memorial by a park ranger for attempting to reward our tired feet and hungry stomachs with a light picnic. But I digress.

If you're camera-happy like I am, the gorgeous scenes of monuments framed by what looks like snow covered trees is a great chance to go crazy taking photos. It's also a great way to welcome spring and get excited about better weather ahead. I recommend setting out early in the day or late in the afternoon for the best photo lighting and to avoid the worst of the tourist hordes. Be sure to walk around the entirety of the tidal basin so you can see all sides of the blossoming trees. Just don't try to whip out a meal of crackers and goat cheese in front of a Founding Father.

Here are my favorites shots from this year: