It’s no big secret of my love for New York City as is for a good Fireworks Display Show. And ranked #1 in the country is the Macy’s New York City 4th of July Spectacular Fireworks Show.

Having photographed the event so many years in a row I thought it was time for a different venue for 2012. The Nation’s Capitol was high on my list, as was for a number of my colleagues and friends that I have the pleasure of shooting alongside, particularly on the 4th.

So the plan was put in motion and  I was very excited at the prospect of photographing America’s Independence Day Celebration, at what better place than our Nation’s Capitol, Washington DC.  We had also planned to stay a few extra days in order to photograph the Capitol aside from the fireworks.

But even the best of plans can quickly change. We did not anticipate having an earthquake last August of 2011, which left many of the iconic spots in need of repairs. Most of them are still undergoing construction which eliminates quite a number of places that where on my list of places to visit. That was my first disappointment, but nevertheless I figured we would still have plenty of photo ops.

The intense heat wave was another factor that had me second guessing if I really wanted to go forward with our scheduled plan. Then last Friday severe storms hit many of our surrounding areas and left hundreds of thousands without electricity, including many in the DC area.  So early this morning when I was advised that the hotel we had reservations with was without power, I knew it was time to admit that all the signs were pointing that 2012 was not the year for us to visit.

This of course is nothing in comparison with what so many people are facing with the devastation the storms left behind. Our thoughts and prayers are with them. We hope they can get the needed relief restored as quickly as possible.

Therefore we will be photographing once again this year at the old familiar and loving place which is the NYC Skyline. Only this year we will be shooting from a slightly different place, so it should make for some great and different views. I will be surrounded by a great group of friends and photographers, which every year makes the event even more special.

I photographed the fireworks image below from the New Jersey side  this past May 23rd during the first evening of Fleet Week in NYC.

To view some additional images from last years 4th of July event you can visit this link: 4th of July Celebration 2011

Also for some useful tips on photographing fireworks you might want to take a look at the New York’s Institute of Photography article.

We also thank our countries veterans and our troops. They are in our hearts and prayers and we ask God to bless them and their families. Keep in mind their sacrifice is the reason we are able to celebrate.