Boston in the Snow

Life slows down in a blizzard. Boston’s gridlocked streets empty out and become pedestrian pathways. As residents start to venture out, they are mesmerized by the neighborhood makeover. With no school and no work, it is the perfect time for reflection.

I find solace walking Boston’s city streets in the snow. With each blizzard, I start in my North End neighborhood where the familiar scenes are transformed into a winter wonderland full of surprises. The whitewashed backdrop turns the grit and grime of asphalt into a miraculously glistening scene.

Being out in the snow brings back a nostalgic childhood feeling. With photography, I realized I could capture these playful moments.

My “Boston in the Snow” series is at an early stage. It has proven to be a photographic challenge. During a blizzard with high winds and blowing snow, focus and exposure are ephemeral. I often wait for people to enter a scene in the bitter cold trying to keep my lens clean and camera dry. Some of my favorite images are at night with glowing lights, but long exposures can be difficult. I usually tell myself to just stay out an hour. Several hours later, I come home soaked to the bone and hoping my camera turns on the next day. Of course, I love it.