pre-pandemic gay museum dance photographer

8th Street near G Street, Washington DC

Description

August 2019. We were slow dancing on the courtyard steps of the National Portrait Gallery. I was the shorter, likely flanneled queer and my partner was taller with a home-cropped haircut. I’ll be honest — I remember gazing into their eyes more than I recall your appearance. You approached and asked if you could take pictures of us. You had the warmest smile. After moving to DC only a week prior, your presence made me feel welcome and at home. I’ve always wondered what pictures you got, of us and of everyone else out in full joy that day on the streets. If you ever see this, I would love to buy you coffee and make real, proper friends. Maybe return some of that welcoming warmth.