During my recent trip to Brooklyn, New York, I had some time on my hands and decided to go on a long walk. I ended up walking over seven miles. I played the role of a wannabe street photographer, usually not really my thing, to capture some “Brooklyn vibes.” Since I did not bring any of my Fujifilm cameras, I used my iPhone 13 Pro.
I shoot almost all my photos in RAW format, regardless of the camera I’m using. Some might think that this is crazy. I prefer the option to edit my images, and RAW is much better for that. Yes, images take up more real estate. So what? “Preserving the original view,” the “photo must be out of the camera.” Sound familiar? That’s fine, but why not be adventurous and try something else? After all, the pristine originals are still around to be tampered with again.
Most of the time, my photo editing is on the moderate side, but I decided to use the Hipstamatic Classic app to edit my images for this little project. Playing with the different “lens” and “film” combinations is a lot of fun. This camera app was one of the reasons I wanted an iPhone back in the day. The second Hipstamatic app combines a camera app and a social network where you can share your images.
All the post-processing was done on my iPhone. Not because I wanted to be a purist, but because that’s where the camera app is installed. Lining up the original and edited image for the comparison slider, which is very cool btw., was done in Affinity Photo 2. Now, have fun checking out the images below.
The Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge is an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of the history of the vibrant boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. It showcases engineering genius with its majestic towers and impressive suspension cables. The bridge has become an iconic symbol of New York City. As you stroll along the pedestrian walkway or admire it from a distance, you’ll be treated to beautiful views of the city skyline, the Statue of Liberty (though rather small), and the bustling activity on the water below. In my opinion, visiting this bridge is an absolute must. At least once.
Hipstamatic Settings
Camera: John S, Film: AO DLX, Exposure: -0.6
I love the look of the edited image. For some reason, the original was rather overexposed, but I liked this photo’s composition. Hipstamatic Classic to the rescue.
Hipstamatic Settings
Camera: Aretha T65, Film: Big Easy, Flash: Tasty Pop
Once I decided to go with the Hipsta app, I contemplated whether I should stick to the same lens/film combo for all the photos or use what I like best for each image. The latter won. This image was exposed correctly, but the gray sky wasn’t very vivid (nothing wrong with that).
Brooklyn Dumbo
Brooklyn’s Dumbo neighborhood is a vibrant area that showcases the essence of this borough. Known for its fantastic views of the Manhattan skyline, Dumbo offers a unique blend of historic and modern charm. Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets, explore art galleries, small shops, and boutiques, or simply enjoy the waterfront scenery. With many cafes and restaurants, Dumbo is a paradise for foodies (yes, we had a fantastic lunch).
Hipstamatic Settings
Camera: Lincoln, Film: Shilshole, Clarity: 34, Definition: 20, Vibrancy: +20
The iconic image from this area. Countless tourists, and maybe some locals disguised as tourists, flock to this area to take a photo or selfie of this fantastic view—New York at its finest.
Hipstamatic Settings
Camera: Lincoln, Film: Blanko Freedom13, Tone Curves: RGB, Temperature: 6510
Another photo from this area. The low sun made for very interesting light, and also created a rather harsh contrast, which can be pretty charming.
Miss Liberty
Hipstamatic Settings
Camera: Markus LSW, Film: SPRKT-ULTIMO, Exposure: +0.1
Walking around the waterfront, I eventually arrived at Brooklyn Bridge Park with fantastic views. You can catch a glimpse of the iconic Statue of Liberty, standing tall and proud, her torch held high and her steadfast gaze. You cannot see the gaze from this location, but you can imagine it. I’d recommend taking a boat tour to get up close with this iron lady. I did this a few years back.
Symbolizing freedom and opportunity, this majestic lady beckons millions of visitors from around the world.
The original image has potential, which I tapped into with my Hipstamatic modifications. I do like the final image very much and might have it printed.
Brooklyn and Manhattan from Above
The final image from this trip shows the aerial view of Brooklin and Manhattan from my airplane window.
Hipstamatic Settings
Camera: Müller, Film: Love 81, Exposure: -0.5, Clarity: 30
