Maryland photography could easily be dominated by all the picture-taking destinations surrounding Chesapeake Bay. It’s so enormous that it looks like a great inland sea on a map. It’s been equally important as a unique natural environment as well as critical to the development of the state’s economy throughout its long history. You’ll discover, however, that the western portion of the state holds quite different attractions for your Maryland photography.
History can always be found just beneath the surface of any Maryland photography. As one of the original 13 colonies, and then states, Maryland is filled with colonial, Revolutionary War era and later historical sites. One of the centers of that history is the city of Baltimore. No visit would be complete without taking your children to the Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine. Here, during the War of 1812, is where Francis Scott Key wrote the words to the National Anthem, as British warships bombarded the city. Baltimore has also created a modern city for your Maryland photography. The Inner Harbor is an excellent family and photography destination, with the National Aquarium, the Baltimore Maritime Museum and the Power Plant Live entertainment district.
Your Maryland photography vacation will then take you south along the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay to Annapolis, the capital. Not only will you find a special cityscape to photograph from one of the many carriage rides or tours, but also you can visit the U.S. Naval Academy. You can then cross the Chesapeake Bay Bridge to explore the area known as the Eastern Shores. Among the many inlets and rivers flowing into the Bay, you’ll find many interesting subjects for your Maryland photography. Head offshore on the vast selection of cruises and boat trips. You can even enroll in a sailing school, if you love water adventures, and take pictures of the entire experience.
If you want your Maryland photography to include the natural environment of the Bay, then travel to the southeastern portion of the Eastern Shores. There, you’ll find numerous protected lands, such as Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, where the skies and the water’s edge are the homes to many birds. It’s also important to capture images of your children as they learn about their environmental stewardship of the Earth. Don’t miss a trip to the Atlantic coast of Maryland. It’s primary attraction for your Maryland photography is Assateague Island National Seashore. Enjoy a beach vacation that’s made more special by the famous wild ponies on the island and the many opportunities to explore the inner bay by kayak.
Maryland photography changes dramatically when you and your camera visit western Maryland. This is Appalachian country, where your family will enjoy outdoor fun: wild water rafting, snow tubing during the winter, excellent fishing and picturesque hiking trails. Adult getaways abound at secluded mountain resorts and beds-and-breakfasts. While you’re in the area, take the family to one of the great Civil War battlefields at Antietam, south of Hagerstown, to make some of your own Maryland photography history.
