The Republic of Characters
Afternoons under the arch of Washington Square
An introduction to the place, its atmosphere, and the mindset needed to photograph it.
This video sets the tone before any image is made.
Aproaching . 7 min
Those Who Looked First
Learning with those who mastered it before us.
1965
1948
Pre Production
First things first
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Weather
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If it's not rainning or too cold, there's something to be photographed overthere
Location
Washington Square Park
Subway Access
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West 4th Street–Washington Square station — A / C / E / B / D / F / M
(best access, 2 minutes walk) -
8th Street–NYU station — N / R / W
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Christopher Street–Sheridan Square station — 1
Key photographic areas within the park:
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Washington Square Arch
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the central fountain
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the chess tables
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the street performer area
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park benches
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the dog run
Each zone offers a slightly different social dynamic.​
Best time to shoot
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Afternoon (12–5 PM)
The park reaches peak activity. Musicians, chess players, performers and students create a dense social environment. -
Golden Hour (5–7 PM)
Warm light enters through the arch and creates silhouettes across the plaza and fountain area. This is often the most visually dramatic moment.
Suggested Equipment
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35mm or 50mm: for street scenes and portraits
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small camera: for discretion
Production
Shoot first, edit maybe
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What to look for
Look for quiet portraits of park regulars resting on the benches.
Moments of affection, humor or waiting between dogs and their owners.
People gathering
Look for quiet portraits of park regulars resting on the benches.
SHOOTING LIST
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1. The bench portrait
2. Dogs and their humans
3. Local Vendors
4. Chess Players portraits
5. Chess Players details
6. The Arch as frame
7. Particular characters
8. Performers
9. Audience
10. Encounter
Lets get to the image . 8 min
We’ll break down a selection of photographs from this assignment — how they were made, the decisions behind each frame, and why certain choices mattered more than others.
Post Production
That really matters
Editing
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Editing as direction . 6 min
This video explores how different editing choices can shift meaning, narrative, and authorship.
Color Grading
From Capture to Final . 12 min
A practical walkthrough of turning raw files into finished images.
COLOR PRESETS
Publishing
Show time. If the work stays on a hard drive, it’s not finished.
Photo Instalation
For this assignment, consider presenting the series as a set of large framed prints installed in a domestic interior — like a contemporary kitchen or dining room.
After Hours
Enjoy the ride
Bars and Restaurants
Classic Village institution known for its historic atmosphere and legendary Black Label burger.
A legendary Falafel stop just a few minutes from the park.
A hidden cocktail bar located upstairs inside a Five Guys. One of the Village’s most unexpected spots — part speakeasy, part neighborhood hangout.
Classic Village institution known for its historic atmosphere and legendary Black Label burger.