#CreekScapes19 - Photo Tour collab w/ Flushing Bay & Creep

“Each person does see the world in a different way. There is not a single, unifying, objective truth.”

This couldn’t be more true in this diverse borough of ours where everyone has a unique perspective. Bring your camera or even just your phone and share your visual perspective of a very underexposed section of Eastern Queens on Saturday, April 20th. Join myself, and Cody Herrmann of @FlushingBayandCreep for a photo walk covering the west coast of Flushing Creek located within the Willets Point section of Corona.

The casual photography workshop will focus on documenting the area's rapidly changing landscape, and the relationship between Flushing Creek and quality of life in surrounding neighborhoods.

This walk takes place in 'the valley of ashes,' as referenced in the novel 'The Great Gatsby,' and will trace City owned property through Willets Point, and under the Van Wyck Expressway. We will discuss water quality, local history, and plans for new development in Willets Point and downtown Flushing. We will also demystify parts of Willets Point and Flushing Creek.

To spice it up a bit we will add a good natured photo competition for the best photos taken during our walking route.

The best photos that follow the guidelines of the 3 categories below will be featured on both @Queenscapes and @FlushingBayAndCreep’s Instagram pages:

1. Best capture of any “sign” that sums up the Flushing Creek area most accurately. We're seeking something iconic. This shot calls for creativity, and the only rules are that your photo best matches the vibe of this environment.

2. Best photo of the area’s revealing landscape. Whether focusing on wildlife or human industry, this shot should tell a story highlighting clues in the physical landscape of Willets Point and Flushing Creek that capture the often hidden ecological and/or political environments surrounding the area.

3. Best landscape shot of the Flushing Bay Beach shoreline. The photo emphasis here is capturing a clear depth of field angle of the man-made Flushing Bay Beach highlighting a balanced shore / creek ratio of the area.

Photos do NOT have to be taken during our walk on 04/20 but must be uploaded on Instagram accompanied with the hashtag #CreekScapes19, no later than Friday 04/26 to be eligible to be featured. Judging will be handled by Adolfo Steve Vazquez of @Queenscapes & Cody Herrmann of @FlushingBayandCreep

The tour will be held in partnership with @NYCH2O, whose mission is to inspire and educate New Yorkers of all ages to learn about, enjoy, and protect their city’s local water ecology.

Portions of the walk will include sandy or uneven ground. Close-toed shoes are required. Event is FREE and open to everyone.

Click on the link to register below right now! (spots are limited):

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/flushing-creek-walking-tour-tickets-59459825940

Words by Adolfo Steve Vazquez & Cody Herrmann Photo by Cody Herrmann