Ann Arbor Melting

When I moved to Muncie, almost five years ago, I started shooting a series titled UP. Now that I've moved on, it seems only fitting that I would continue the fun and start shooting a series titled "Down." While out walking in downtown Ann Arbor today, Down just sorta found my camera. Here's to the start of another five years of looking around, may it be UP, left to right or Down!

Ann Arbor Melting:

ARCHIVES: Muncie Gras Past

While working at the Star Press I had the opportunity to produce a multimedia short to promote the entertainment section, All Access, at the annual Mardi Gras inspired Muncie Gras festival. Since I didn't film one this year (because I no longer work there) and with the festival just around the corner I am feeling a bit nostalgic. Below I've posted the videos from '08 and '09. Both starring friends and volunteers who were brave enough to trust me during my "inspiried" anxiety.

 

Muncie Gras '09 from Melanie Maxwell on Vimeo.

Muncie Gras '08 from Melanie Maxwell on Vimeo.

Saturday at Eastern Market - Detroit, Michigan

Eastern Market is honestly one of my favorite places on the planet. Since I've moved back to Michigan (and have been granted Saturdays off!) I've been making more frequent trips. Interestingly enough, I did my first-ever photo essay at Eastern Market. It was terrible. I think it has since become a photo essay that I will work on for life, as I will always be collecting photographs of my experiences there.

Farmers and vendors come from all over the state and set up their stands in the sheds where they sell produce, baked goods, grains, plants and many other items for much less than most grocery store prices.

I couldn't resist photographing at this table, everything was bathed in beautiful, warm light. I managed to snatch up some of those red potatoes and a basket of onions, $1 each!

This vendor sells firewood. He was also caught trying to sell some charm to my mom, the wag of her finger told him who's boss!

Pretty red tulips on the left, Mom and Mark on the right.

I took this while we waited in line for my favorite restaurant in the village, Russell Street Deli. It's the kind of place where if there isn't a line out front, then they must be out of the day's fantastic specials. (See photo of my meatless ruben below, not a Saturday special, but special for my stomach!)