Taking the Scenic Route at the Buffalo Photo Walk

Emily Simmons 2

Photography meets exercise on July 18th as Annie Levay will be leading the Buffalo Photo Walk through Allentown and the Elmwood Village. Following a loosely recommended route, photo-walkers will explore Buffalo neighborhoods in search of the best snapshot views. The event will be a multipurpose occasion, fit for socializing, exercise, photography, and Buffalo pride.

As Photo Walk leader Annie Levay puts it, "The walk will not only showcase sites and neighborhoods in Buffalo, but will also be a chance for people who rarely come in from the suburbs to discover the wonderful and beautiful surprises around every corner in Buffalo." Last year's Photo Walk was a huge success, as the group toured through the heart of downtown. This year's walk will explore Allentown and the Theater District, but the change of location will only be an added attraction as participants will discover the timelessness of some of Buffalo's oldest neighborhoods.

The Photo Walk will start at 9 AM, but participants are expected to be ready 15 minutes prior at the water fountain in Days Park, the start location for the walk (pictured above, from buffaloah.com). The group will proceed through Allentown and past Kleinhan's Music Hall towards the Elmwood storefronts. Continuing down Lafayette Avenue, Chapin Parkway, and finally up St. James Place, walkers will have plenty of opportunities for snapping some great shots. Reaching the end of the route around 11 AM, the group will make its way to the Elmwood-Bidwell Farmer's Market (upcoming story from Matt Biddle) to share photos and picnic. This route is wholly unofficial though, as Levay says, "How you get from the park to the picnic, that's your adventure."

There is only one expectation: pictures! Using many of the photos taken during the walk, organizer Levay plans to submit a collection for a gallery opening in early fall. Photographers can submit their shots for display in the fall, but can also enter into the Photo Walk contest. Out of all the photos, one will be chosen as the city's winner and the photographer will receive Toby Scott's compiled photography book as well as be in the running for the grand prize.

And you needn't be a professional to participate. As Leader Levay expects, there will be a wide range of ability, from amateurs with cellphone camera in hand to professionals with galleries, contracted assignments, and personal studios. The walk will be a chance for photographers, both beginners and experts to explore the photographic beauty of downtown Buffalo and share their knowledge and experience.

Photo Walk participants are encouraged to bring money for a quick lunch from one of the many local eateries near Bidwell Parkway or a bagged lunch from home for after the walk.

Besides that, just bring your camera and comfortable shoes.

Participation is limited to 50 people! Make sure to register before the event to reserve your spot! To join Annie and register or to find additional information, click HERE.

Photos Above: Nathan Mroz (Buffalonian4life) of BuffaloScenicPrints.com

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