Ping Amranand's images survey the landmarks that draw visitors to Washington and the seasonal changes that charm the city's residents. A veteran garden photographer, Amranand pays special attention to the majestic trees and gardens that temper and transform "the mighty architectural presence" of Washington's famous buildings.

The remarkable people who shaped Washington are the topic of Philip Kopper's lively text. From Pierre Charles L'Enfant to Alexander Shepherd, Kopper represents a pageant of dreamers and doers united by their vision of the capital of freedom.