Sunset on the Tracks
February 8, 2021 - ISO 100 | 35 mm | f/6.3 | 1/125
One of my favorite things about the Old City is the way the sunsets on the architecture of the city. New details emerge on the skyline, and with it comes a new appreciation for the history of our quaint district of Downtown Knoxville.
Circa 1903
February 8, 2021 - ISO 100 | 18 mm | f/5.6 | 1/80
The Southern Railway Station of Knoxville was built in 1903-1904, and was designed by the architect, Frank P. Milburn, for the Southern Railway Company. It quickly became a hub for people to pass through from all over. At its height, The Southern Railway Station serviced 26 passenger trains daily.
Living in the Old City, I often think of what it would be like to have the passenger train up and running again. New places to see, new people to meet, and new life in Knoxville.
The White Lily View
March 30, 2021 - ISO 100 | 24 mm | f/4.0 | 1/250
Since I was a kid, I always wanted to live in the city. Every time I would visit, I would admire the exposed brick lofts above the town. Living in White Lily flats has been a dream come true. The people, culture, events, and more truly make this neighborhood special.
Oncoming Train
September 22, 2021 - ISO 100 | 50 mm | f/9.0 | 1/200
A large part of living in the Old City is growing accustomed to the lullaby of the train. My apartment sits directly on the tracks, and at first I would curse the horn as it would blare past my window. Now, I welcome the rumble of the train as it carries its cargo across the east coast.
135 S. Gay
September 22, 2021 - ISO 1600 | 35 mm | f/4.5 | 1/50
Part of what makes the Old City so special is the variety of businesses that line the streets. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and music venues to keep you entertained while you visit. The Tern Club offers a little tropical getaway right on South Gay. There's nothing quite like it in Knoxville.
The Jackson Atelier
September 22, 2021 - ISO 100 | 29 mm | f/5.6 | 1/100
I find myself looking up. When I take a walk Downtown, I'm always looking up. I love the way the corner of the Jackson Atelier pierces the blue sky. This building is the epitome of Old City architecture, and I'll always find myself looking up at its beauty when I stroll down Jackson Ave.
From Jackson Ave.
September 22, 2021 - ISO 100 | 50 mm | f/5.6 | 1/100
A big part of the charm in the Old City is the industrial, yet elegant, aspects of town. You can tell that there is so much history beyond the brick. These buildings housed factories, workshops, restaurants and more. Giving Knoxville its start, these historic buildings give Knoxville a sense of pride in what came before us, and I think that's really cool.
Silent Symmetry
February 8, 2021 - ISO 100 | 35 mm | f/5.0 | 1/60
One of my favorite pictures in the Old City is the view of the train tracks from the Gay Street viaduct. Anytime I get the chance, that is the picture I am taking. What happens, though, is I lose out on other photos when I'm focused on that one shot. So, I challenged myself NOT to take that photo. Instead, I captured this side view of the Southern Depot. I love the symmetry that comes with it, the golden reflection in the window, and the leaning right wall. By challenging myself, I produced one of my favorite photos I've taken.
Pour Bulldog
September 22, 2021 - ISO 160 | 50 mm | f/5.0 | 1/60
The Old City is a destination. But, sometimes I forget that it's also a lively neighborhood. People walk from their homes to find themselves grabbing a drink at the Pour Taproom, purchasing spirits at Post Modern, or grabbing some sushi at Anaba. We are so lucky to have places like these just a couple steps from our front door.
Walking on Gay
February 8, 2021 - ISO 100 | 18 mm | f/5.6 | 1/80
On a clear day, golden hour hits just right in the Old City. One of the reasons I love this picture is for the window display on the left window of the Emporium. Whether you're gay or straight, black or white, you are welcome in the Old City.
Urban Greenhouse
September 22, 2021 - ISO 320 | 69 mm | f/5.6 | 1/100
Finding space Downtown to have your own green space can be tough. This second floor loft on S. Gay has made the most our of their triplet terraces. Their urban greenhouse is the perfect display of a green thumb while living Downtown.
Jaywalkin'
September 22, 2021 - ISO 100 | 35 mm | f/5.0 | 1/60
On an early evening in the middle of September a random rain shower soaked much of Downtown. I wasn't expecting it as I was walking around, camera in town, photographing the Old City. I was soaked. Luckily, I wasn't too far from my apartment and had the opportunity to change my clothes, and dry off.
Afterwards, I thought about this gentleman with a cane who was so desperately trying to find cover while the storm passed. I hope he found a place to stay dry, and I hope that Knoxville will work harder to provide those less fortunate with the opportunities to stay dry, stay sheltered, and stay healthy.
Between Two Trees
September 22, 2021 - ISO 200 | 74 mm | f/5.0 | 1/100
During such a polarizing time in the United States, the negatives almost always overshadow the positives. I often think of how our flag grew into what it is today. It is so much more than three colors or decoration. Think of the areas around the globe that our flag has flown, think of the transformation it has underwent throughout the decades on our own shores. This flag, flown between two trees, serves as a reminder that, despite our differences, we are one nation.
Norfolk Southern
September 22, 2021 - ISO 100 | 35 mm | f/5.0 | 1/80
Living here, I found myself wanting to learn more about the train system. Within my first week of living in the Old City I read articles, watched YouTube videos, and learned all I could about this train. While these locomotives might not be the most glamorous, they are an essential part of our economy, and I think it makes for a unique backdrop to the Old City.
