You may or may not be aware but there is an astronomical phenomena that happens twice a year every year in Manhattan. It's called Manhattanhenge? (aka Manhattan solstice)

Twice a year (during May and July) as the sun sets on Manhattan, it lines up perfectly with the streets of New York running east and west. During this time thousands of New Yorkers and tourists alike will dash into the middle of the streets of Manhattan to get a glimpse and a photograph! Although it's an interesting sight to see and if you happen to be around during these days I think you shouldn't miss it, I have to wonder about the prudence of standing into the middle of a NYC street during rush hour to take a picture. As much as I love photography and have gone to the far reaches of the planet to create a photograph, I have never thought risking my life for a photo to be a wise maneuver. I think certainly there are times when you should risk your life for a photo, but these are photos that document injustice and war crimes that will help save lives in the future. I think there are many more interesting and worthwhile things to photograph in New York than a sun setting between the buildings, but others may not share my opinion. Join us for a photo safari and we'll help you learn how you can create your own safe and beautiful photo.

The folks at the Museum of Natural History have put together this wonderful article describing Manhattanhenge: click here.

Zim Instructor If you want to learn how to take photos of buildings try our

DIY Photo Safari#9: Coney Island?

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This photography workshop takes place inside the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Although there will be artwork to photograph, this safari is about the use of light. The amazing Metropolitan Museum of Art features many would-be outdoor spaces that are now encapsulated inside the building (the American Courtyard, the European Sculpture Court, etc.). These spaces are beautifully lit by huge skylights, offering a unique opportunity to photograph several diverse architectural elements all in one setting. These conditions also offer some photographic challenges such as shooting in mixed lighting conditions and so we will also address "white balance". Join us for this safari and learn about light. This session is wheelchair accessible. please visit: https://newyorkcityphotosafari.com/museum-inside-out.html or call 1-718-268-9634

Yet another great excursion out of Manhattan for a weekend photo adventure. Visit the The Philip Johnson Glass House, a National Trust Historic Site. The 47 acre site is the location of

14 structures including Philip Johnson’s famous glass house. The site honors his legacy, as well as that of David Whitney. Modern architecture, landscape and sculpture is showcased with the picturesque backdrop of New Canaan, Connecticut making this the perfect day trip out of the city for enthusiasts of both architecture and landscape photography. Photography is allowed on all Glass House Tours with the exclusion of flash photography, tripods or video recording. It is convenient from the City on the Metro North New Haven line http://www.mta.info/mnr/. The site closes from November 30th to May 1st (and is closed every Tuesday) so plan ahead! Tickets are required.

If you are looking to get out of the city without actually getting out of the city consider visiting Fort Tilden - A national park that contains both past military structures and reclaimed natural areas that are home to a variety of

Ever wish you had that perfectly “street” photo of New York City? The fire escape with a backdrop of some stunning street art? Well you will find all of this and more at 5 Pointz Aerosol Arts Center in Long Island City. This 200,000

Need to get out of Manhattan for a day? Try visiting the Boscobel House and Garden.