It's become a New Year's automotive tradition of mine to see the Washington Auto Show every year, much like my annual Fall trip to Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park to enjoy the car culture along Virginia's most scenic Autumn route. This year, just like the last, I brought only my beloved 85L II lens to take in the petroheads' art. I enjoy using a tight lens like the 85L because it forces me to be creative in creating new perspectives to an auto show that thousands of people photograph. It takes a lot of effort to get a full car shot using the 85L, and that's just part of the challenge... because that's what everyone else is shooting; do I really want that shot? How can I make it unique? I hope you enjoy my carporn from the 2013 Washington Auto Show! Bonus points if you can identify the cars from just their detail shots; leave your guesses in the comments section!
You can also see the entire set of photos at my Facebook Page here. Don't forget to LIKE my Page!
01
This Chrysler 300 has had a $10,000+ drop-top conversion done to it. It was for sale, and had a potential buyer place it on hold. The US Army also had a display, featuring a minesweeping Bobcat, and soldier launched UAVs. I wonder if anyone actually returns the drone in a conflict zone like the sticker asks, like a library card.
02
There were also some local celebrities on hand. DJ Flounder, known to the DC area from his time with DC101 on Elliot in the Morning, and Captain Planet! I also feel that the kid below was paying too much attention to the Maserati, and ignoring the awesome Chevy tow truck begging for attention just a few feet away. It had a Stingray on the back, for sale.
03
Jake and I also had the rare opportunity to demo Jaguar's latest model, the 2014 F-Type S: a 380HP roadster that aims to compete with Mercedes' SLK55 AMG and SL Series, and BMW's Z4 sDrive35is. It is also available with a 450HP Supercharged V8 engine. We found it very comfortable, and we enjoyed the envious looks of onlookers as we tried the vehicle out in the enclosed Jaguar display area.
04
I was also happy to see the direction Lincoln is continuing to move in. I truly hope to see them continue to recover and separate themselves as a retro-modern luxury brand. That being said, the Chevrolet Impala is a welcome sight with a refreshed yet understated look, but a rear end that reminds me of a VW Passat.
05
06