Most of us are proud of our travel photos, and we all have snapped a few good ones from an airplane window. Yet the photography of John Loggins rises above the best. Most recently, en route to Puerto Rico from the airspace near DCA, John captured District’s landmarks, the U.S. Capital and the Washington Monument, covered in snow. On his descent, he documented the frothy white of the ocean’s waves and the blue seaside of San Juan.
Visit his website and try not to become enchanted by photographs ranging from delicate flowers to elaborate palace interiors to ripe pineapples on a tree. Simply put, John’s content is extremely engaging.
John’s travel photography is neatly organized on his website. Along with take-off and departure photos, there are additional images of his time in Puerto Rico, where he photographed Spanish Colonial and Art Deco homes. Architecture enthusiasts will enjoy John’s photographs from Barcelona, which include amazing images from two houses designed by Antoni Gaudi. When asked what motivates him to take a certain shot, he replies, “I just know what I like.” He favors vibrant color, elegant composition, and compelling subject-matter, elements that – when combined – create beautiful photographs. He also offers advice on how to develop an eye for taking a great photograph, “When you walk around, always look up.”
John grew up in Hawai’i and received his first camera, a Minolta SLR, from his uncle in the 1970s. He graduated from Washington State University in 1986, with a degree in broadcast production, and remained in the Northwest for some time. His affinity for the region is demonstrated in photographic series that depict seaside images and vast coasts, gardens, waterfalls and wineries. John brings to life and highlights the most picturesque aspects of the places he photographs. It is difficult to view these photos without wanting to go there.
John arrived in Washington, DC, in 1997, seeking photo editing and web-design work. What followed was a rich career in digital imaging and photo research. John has worked with institutions such as the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, and National Geographic. John became a Baltimorean five years ago, residing first in Ridgley’s Delight, and – for the past two years – in Bolton Hill. From his home on Mount Royal Avenue, he works as a photo editor and archivist. His clients include the Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.
John travels the world to take photos, yet is also attentive to Baltimore. His portfolio includes images of Bolton Hill churches, mallards in Patterson Park, and a project titled Birds of Summer from Lake Roland. Photographs from rallies and protests in DC and in Baltimore are also notable. John says, “It’s important to document those that are petitioning the government for a redress of grievances so that future generations don’t forget.”
Many readers have likely seen John, with his camera in hand, at neighborhood gatherings. He has documented Festival on the Hill, the AVAM Kinetic Sculpture Race, and the Baltimore Marathon. He’s a regular at Park Avenue’s First Fridays. In fact, many of John’s photographs have been featured in the Bolton Hill Bulletin, as he captures colorful moments in the community.
Examples of John’s work can be seen on BHCA social media pages, on his Instagram page @johnlogginsphotography, and on his website johnlogginsphotography.com. –Francine Marchese
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