St. John's
St. John's is one of the most historically significant churches in America, with roots going back to 1610, and the current brick structure and weathered gravestones surrounding it make for a compelling mix of colonial architecture and atmosphere. The churchyard is where you will want to spend most of your time, with centuries-old headstones providing strong foreground interest against the church facade. A wide-angle lens works well for capturing the full building with gravestones in the foreground, while a longer focal length lets you isolate details like the aged brickwork, arched windows, and worn inscriptions. Overcast days are ideal here, as soft diffused light eliminates harsh shadows and brings out the texture of the stone and brick. Early morning on a clear day also works well, with low-angle light raking across the surfaces. Parking is easy and the grounds are accessible on foot. (Hampton, Virginia, United States)
