412 Project Oakland Instameet

September 5, 2016 Xavier Thomas

The 412project had another great meet up. This time we were starting in Oakland. I arrived a little late but I caught up shortly after they started so unfortunately I missed out on a few spots. I caught up to the group walking towards Phipps Conservatory & I immediately started shooting.

I caught this one of my friend Jesse (@JTaylor412) as we were waiting for the group to catch up so we could head to Schenly park.

This shot made itself, Henry ( @HankIsDope ) sat on the fountain with the cathedral peering over his shoulder, I had no choice but to snap this one.

We rounded everyone up and made a stop at Phipps Conservatory. While the group was shooting the scenery I turned my focus to the people there & got to know some of my fellow Pittsburghers!

Here I asked Lily ( @LilyValour ) to pose for a portrait & even though she was under the weather, she handled it flawlessly and the photo turned out great.

Here's my friend Sam (@Hershmyberger) snapping a shot of "Chicken Noodle Soup"

We stayed there for what seemed like 20 minutes & headed onto the trails. Immediately after arriving I knew we were in for something special. I did a shoot down there before so I knew how great it could end up being.

"What if I go sit on that ledge where that sun pocket is" was Lily's way of casually suggesting I take this photo, which turned out great.

Then the smoke bombs came out & it changed the game.

The Group snapping away as Lily does her thing with the smoke bomb.

This is definitely my best shot of the day. After the first smoke bomb I turned around and the Sun was beaming through the trees & all I could think of was Kanye West's song Ultralight Beam.

Lily unknowingly posing for a stellar picture

I met this guy Greg at the meet and he was pretty cool, check out his Instagram ( @Greg.Toumey)

So yet another awesome time with the people over at the 412project. I always love their events so much. I can't wait until the next one, until then go and check out their website at www.412project.com & stayed tuned for more from ArtLikeUs