Installation of new lighting on Bethesda Lane continues at Bethesda Row. The new overhead fixtures resemble dozens of supersize ring lights, the lighting used by many video creators on YouTube, TikTok and other platforms. This reflects the promise by property owner Federal Realty that the update would provide "improved lighting for selfies." Down below, repairs are being made to part of the pedestrian street's surface.
Somewhere, a sociologist or other cultural commentator is probably already working an article or book called "The Selfie Demographic: Hey, Look at Me!," and will soon be visiting Bethesda Lane for "market research."
ReplyDeleteUmmm...sorry to play party pooper, but hanging lights directly overhead will not pleasing photo lighting make. We all know the property mgmt's explanation is a canard, but seriously, folks, it's a crock to suggest this lighting will be better suited just because the lamps are circular, like photo ring lights. A lamp's position is of at least as much importance as its shape. Hold a flashlight over your head and aim the beam down, to illuminate your face as you take a selfie. To quote "Seinfeld"s Kramer: "Yama hama, it's fright night!!"
ReplyDeleteI predict ugly selfies will continue to reign on Bethesda Row. What will we tell the children?
The actual explanation is that it's for advertising purposes. If more people take selfies, the more the space gets advertised.
ReplyDeleteThe 'explanation' may not be the reason, just sayin...maybe Bethesda is just trying to get ahead of the crime curve.
Delete@4:37 That idea did not crossed my mind until reading your comment. It makes perfect sense, though.
ReplyDeleteIn this evening's production the role of the Naïve, Clueless Guy will be played by me.
Just like Bethesda Metro on first list to get new turnstiles, this is about crime control. What are they gonna say? Selfies, hahaha.
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ReplyDeleteIt looks like an invasion of flying saucers.
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