This cavernous space under an overpass in Brooklyn creates a nice angular light that comes in from either side. The leading lines of the highway above provide endless compositional possibilities and the gritty parking lot underneath is filled with older cars and graffiti details — a perfect backdrop for a quick portrait session.
Plan
Overview
Skill level
Easy
Accessbility
Public Location
Hours
Anytime
Fee
Free
Pack
Wide-angle lens (35mm)
Model
How to get there
N40° 42' 50.7456"W73° 57' 11.8728"
I took this portrait of my friend Liz under the Bronx-Queens Expressway in this Williamsburg, Brooklyn. We were at the corner of Metropolitan Ave and Meeker Ave.
By Subway:
- Closest Station: Lorimer Street (L Train)
- Head south on Lorimer St toward Metropolitan Ave
- Turn right onto Metropolitan Ave and the destination will be on your right
Tips
When to go
Best season
All months
Best time
Late afternoon
You can photograph under this expressway any month of year.
In the late-afternoon, the light is lower and more golden. I prefer that softer style of light.
Field tips
We went under the overpass to take advantage of the leading lines and diffuse light.
This is a great place to use leading lines to direct the viewers’ eyes to the subject. Try different methods of using the backdrop to control how someone experiences the image.
I directed my model to face the direction that had more light coming from it. This way, you can see their features and not lose them in the shadows under the bridge.
When photographing models, I like shooting in a burst mode to capture a wider range of emotions. Developing a rapport with your subject will lead you to capture more genuine emotions.
Current weather
Brooklyn, New York
Overcast
45o
F
Thu
45o
38o
Fri
43o
38o
Sat
50o
39o
Sun
57o
50o
Mon
56o
46o
Blue Hour
10:57
45o
Overcast
Sunrise
11:25
45o
Overcast
Golden Hour
22:15
45o
Overcast
Sunset
22:52
45o
Overcast
Do nearby
This is a great area of Williamsburg for bars and restaurants. Check out Rocka Rolla across the street or grab some dumplings at Kings County Imperial!