The Red Hook community-based photo project “What’s the Hook?” organized by Harriet Zucker got under way yesterday and we understand that more than 100 photographers have already expressed interest in participating. The photo project will run through Saturday (8/18). For more information you can go to the What’s the Hook? website, but the bottom line is that if you have a camera and you want to go to Red Hook and shoot photos between now and Saturday, you’re invited to submit them to What’s the Hook. A number of young people from the Red Hook Justice Center’s Photography Program are participating along with other neighborhood young people, which is very cool. Some of the best photos will be posted online and in establishments around Red Hook. there will also be some events this week, including a get together for photographers at the Red Hook Fairway on Thursday (8/18) from 4PM-6PM. The gathering will take place at the cafe in back (the one with the awesome view of New York Harbor). Ms. Zucker emails that Bait and Tackle at 320 Van Brunt is offering a beer to participating photogs. (Contact Ms. Zucker at whatsthehook2007 (at) gmail (dot) com to get a “chit” for Bait and Tackle.) Also the venerable Sonny’s Bar is giving photographer a free drink (up to $5 in value) on Wednesday night (8/15). (Again, email Ms. Zucker for info.)

Here are some of Ms. Zucker’s thoughts on photos:

There are few things I would like to see if possible. The first image that comes to mind when you think of Red Hook.

If you live in Red Hook, can you shoot from the top of your building or any building?…If you can shoot from the water, try. Late at night and v. early am

Soccer field activity on the weekends soccor baseball and amazing food.

I have permission for a photgrapher to shoot at Red Hook pool…..weekends are probably not great. I need to let them know time and date. Pool opens at 11 am
that is when kids line up. Closes from 3-4 (check that) and opens again.

People fish at both Piers (Valentino and Columbia st) Columbia street fisherman are there quite early.

Tons of gardens in Red Hook, some great yards

Lots graffiti too. some interesting businesses….old and new. Yellow buses and water taxis. Trucks. Traffic. Lots and lots of change.

All in all, it’s an excellent project that will produce a valuable “week in the life” document of a neighborhood that’s changing quickly.