This morning I walked to work, an act that some might consider a chore, a bore, or even a privilege to have a walkable commute in this car-dependent culture. It took much longer than I expected, and at certain points when there wasn’t much to admire except the cracks in the sidewalk, was a test of what little patience I have left as a millennial.

But walking is also a joy. It slows you down so you can hear your own thoughts, and, best of all, creates chance opportunities to meet new people or run into community members you already know. Walking to work, I noticed, made me feel more a part of my neighborhood than my usual bike ride through town when the only details I have time to observe are the license plates of cars parked in the bike lane (you’ve been warned).

Anyway, the point of this post is not necessarily about my experience, but a chance to encourage you to go out and take photos of the areas you frequent, whether it’s your walk to work, bike ride to the grocery store, your turn to take the dog out, a quick stroll on your lunch break, your jog around the park or a planned photography excursion.

We’d love to feature what you capture right here on the Hi-lo.

It’s one way for us to get to know you, a reader and supporter, a little better, and to show our audience a side of Long Beach few get to witness. It’s a chance to get creative, show off your photography skills, and to highlight the highs and lows, the overlooked details, the people, that Long Beach’s varied streets and neighborhoods have to offer the curious observer.

To submit, email [email protected] 5 – 10 photos with captions, your name and general location, a 100 – 200 word description of your walk/ride/adventure through town and any social media platforms you’d like mentioned.