A week in London redux

Four years ago I struggled to get take photos I was happy with during the trip. For whatever the reason I had a hard time getting any photography done while navigating and exploring the city with my party. This time around one of the party members has gotten more into photography and I have a better grasp of how to get around the city which in turn allowed me to feel more free to at least get some snapshots off. 

While planning for this trip, I came across the Tulip stairs at the Queen's house in Greenwich. From other photos I can find on the internet, I figure the stairs were pretty narrow and there is not a lot of space available. The question is if my 35mm will be enough to capture enough of the stairs or if I will need something wider. If I went wider, would I bring two bodies or just the Canon or rent a 24mm. Other complications involved was that we were taking a river cruise to Greenwich and the website said that the duration would be 1 to 2 hours long, scheduling wise the earliest time we could take the cruise was 2pm. The Queen's house closes at 5pm. Our window could have been either comfortable or pretty tight. I decided live with what I have and just take the 35mm and wits.

On the day, the cruise took 1.5 hrs, when we got there we found out that the area was closed off because of a wedding and the stairs were being used by the bride and groom. I totally understand and would have done the same. Fortunately I was told that if we came back in 20 minutes we would be allowed access to the base of the stairs. Sounded like we might get access to the stairs the last 30 minutes before closing, didn't know if others were waiting for the rope drop as well.

We came back 20 minutes later and was escorted to the stairs. The nice lady that lead us there would stay with us until we were finished. I guess to make sure we didn't explore restricted areas or gnawing on the stairs. As expected the 35mm while standing at the base isn't wide enough but laying flat on the floor worked out for me. I wasn't sure if I was allowed to or not but I took the do it and apologize later strategy. I felt pressure because I know the lady was standing there watching us and I took it as a favor that we were allowed into the area, I didn't want to give her a bad experience for being nice to us. We took turns taking a couple shots and we left after saying our thank yous. 

Back at the computer, I wish I didn't rush myself. I wish I would have noticed the light fixtures and did something to avoid it. I wish spent the time and tried a couple more angles and compositions. I can't believe I was given private access to the stairs and they were so lovely. Odds are very low that I would get this opportunity again. I'm so thankful for the time and access.