Michigan-based photographer Dave Thompson captures the Capitol’s Lantern Level in a dark, dramatic, almost industrial vision that transforms architecture into cinematic artistry. The ascending circular stairway, cast in shadows and muted tones, draws the eye upward along the dome’s ribs, mechanical lines, and historic metalwork, emphasizing both engineering and grandeur. A sharp slice of blue sky through the Lantern Level windows punctuates the brooding interior, creating tension, contrast, and a sense of monumental scale. Dave’s mastery of light, shadow, and perspective turns this space into an intimate yet awe-inspiring experience, inviting viewers to see Michigan’s Capitol in a bold, new way.