View allAll Photos Tagged Strangers
A park close by is becoming a favorite hang-out of mine. One afternoon I took a stroll and met this lady who was selling orchids. I asked if I could take her photo (for the project). She said yes.
Say hello to Joanne. She has been working with her mother in a garden shop that sells orchids for nearly 5 years. Needless to say she knows her orchids and how to take care of this precious and sensitive flower that blooms only twice a year (that's what she told me). She dropped out of school after finishing high school to help her mother.
It was a slow afternoon so I took several shots. The sun was nearly down so the shot was a little grainy. I found her best angle. A side view was best for her slightly round face.
Good luck with the orchid business Joanne. I'll probably run into her again since I will be frequenting this park to catch strangers ;)
This picture is #70 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
I spotted two young me when they were still some distance away. As they got nearer to the wall, where I was sitting, I stood, walked toward them and asked the one in the colourful shirt “Excuse me.. Would it be OK to take your photograph.. I’m doing a project to take photos of people that I don’t know..?”
Mitch agreed and I offered to take a picture with his friend afterwards too. I invited him to sit on the wall and he agreed. I asked what had brought them to Street today. I think he said that they were collecting something. I don’t remember what.
Mitch works as Cabin Crew. Although he travels, he hasn’t had the time to see much of the places he has been. He studied music and plays the piano. He also collects antique jewellery. One of his sources is another friend, who buys and sells. He also goes to antique fairs, I think.
As I picked up my camera, Mitch asked if I would like him to take his sunglasses off. Very thoughtful. I thanked him and said that it would be good to be able to see his eyes clearly. I said that I would try one while he still had his sunglasses on, first. When I put my camera to my eye, I could not see his eyes through the sunglasses. I told Mitch and he took them off for me.
When we had finished making portraits, I took Mitch’s email address. He reminded me that I had offered to photograph them both together. Toby appeared less eager than Mitch but soon complied and looked comfortable as he sat down next to Mitch.
As we exchanged words of thanks and goodbyes, I was struck with how pleased Mitch had been to take part.
Thank you Mitch for being part of my project. It was great to meet you and Toby today.
You can view more portraits and stories by visiting The Human Family
Stranger #89 – Richard – Just like Adriana, Danny and Wade I met him on the farmers’ market in downtown Santa Barbara, Ca. I spotted Richard immediately because - to be quite frank - he simply embodies my vision of California :) I approached him and asked for a photo. He instantly agreed but also added that it wasn’t the first time. I wasn't surprised at all. I took a few pictures, wrote down his email address and we parted our ways. The encounter was short but Richard seemed to be a nice guy :) He is the last stranger from my latest trip to UCSB and Santa Barbara. I love this place: the weather is perfect, people are very nice, there's a lot of palm trees and don't forget the ocean with a lot of friendly cetaceans! You simply can't ask for more :) I hope I’ll have the opportunity to come back some day.
This picture is #89 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
This picture is #46 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
I met Rachel in the middle of York where she had just finished busking. Having really enjoyed listening to Rachel singing and playing the guitar and being very impressed I was really pleased when she agreed to take part in this project.
Have a look at Rachel's Facebook site: Rachel Croft Music
If you are reading this Rachel , many thanks for letting me take your portrait! Please get in touch if you want a copy or are not happy with the result and would prefer me to remove it from Flickr.
A Vietnamese Monk - Dr Ngo Thanh Thanh
Yeah he is a doctor and think i would be nice to add something difference in this series rather than only beautiful girl =).
Thank you Doc!
This picture is #24 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at www.100Strangers.com
Julia arrived in the UK yesterday. She has sold or given away all her worldly goods apart from the contents of 2 suitcases that she brought from Germany. Julia told me that she still wonders if she has things that she doesn’t need.
This morning, I was headed down Glastonbury Tor and she was coming up. I paused as she approached and asked if I might take her photograph. She agreed to my request and was happy when I said that I would like to take the photo at the top of the Tor.
We talked as we walked up the path. I learned that Julia had visited Glastonbury before, four days this summer and four days in 2014. She has decided to stay longer this time, with no planned return date. Julia is seeking healing and spiritual growth.
Julia enjoys drawing and painting. She likes to paint the universe and nature. Lately Julia has been painting using ink. She also runs her own business making an alternative to wigs. Julia combines hair pieces with hats or hair bands. Take a look at her website weilduschoenbist.de.
At the summit we sat down and chatted some more. I asked if Julia had done this before. Yes, she told me that she had been a makeup artist for eleven years and that she had many photographer friends.
Julia had no fixed plans for the rest of the day. She just wants to take it easy, settling in to a new place. As we said our goodbyes, we agreed that our paths were bound to cross again, as like me, Julia will be a frequent visitor to the tor.
Thank you Julia for being part of my project it was great to meet you today. Best wishes for your new adventure in England.
This shot is a little unusual for me as, I think, it is the first time that I used my camera’s built in flash in a stranger photograph (or any kind of flash). It was taken inside St Michael's tower. The light behind Julia was very bright.
You can view more portraits and stories by visiting The Human Family
My wife loves chocolate. And, we are only a few days from Valentine’s Day. So, several months ago when she found out that Magnolia Plantation had a chocolate walk, activities for today had been set.
There were a number of stations setup representing different countries. At one of the last stations was Pat, playing the guitar as folks strolled the gardens. My wife and I spent a few minutes chatting with him. Besides his guitar talents being used at Magnolia, Pat is also the Superintendent of the Gardens. At Magnolia that has to be a huge job! If I am not mistaking he has been there for 15 years.
Pat, it was a pleasure talking with you today, and we really enjoyed hearing you play guitar! Thanks so much for taking part in my 100 Strangers project!
This picture is #32 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
Nadia smiled and laughed a bit nervously as I took her photo in the Penniless Porch near Wells Cathedral. I said that it was my job to dispel her nerves. She claimed that she wasn't photogenic but Katy (my stranger 97) and I disagreed.
Like Katy she had come to Wells to get inspiration for her creative writing. The degree that she is doing at Bath Spa University engages them in all kinds of writing. Her current project is a story based in Scotland (and Canada – I think).
Nadia asked if I was a professional photographer and I said that it was just for fun. We spoke a little about possibilities of earning money from photography.
When I asked Nadia and Katy what they liked to do in their free time they looked at each other and said that they didn't have much free time but they both enjoyed reading (and writing). I agreed that this must be true as they were now in their 3rd year of their course and they looked to be enjoying their research/preparation in Wells.
Shortly after saying goodbye to Nadia and Katy I bumped into a friend. I showed him the shots that I had taken of the young ladies. He liked this shot of Nadia because she looked thoughtful. I agree and wonder what she was thinking when I was taking it.
Thank you Nadia for agreeing to be in my project. It was good to meet you. I hope that you took plenty of inspiration from your time in Wells and Glastonbury. Maybe you and Katy have links to some of your work? All the best for your creative writing.
This picture is #098 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
“We should get another one”... It sounded like a group of young women were debating about finding someone to take another group photograph of them. I think that they had reviewed a photo that someone had taken for them and were concerned that it hadn't turned out all that well.
I approached them and asked if they would like me to take a photograph for them. They said “please”. I arranged the group and took a photo with the phone that they gave me. Neesha was concerned that the photo was a bit boring and got the group to lark about a bit for a further shot.
I handed the phone back and asked Neesha if I might take a photograph of her for my project and she agreed. The group were visiting from London, to celebrate one of their birthdays. Neesha had hired a minibus. They had arrived yesterday and were going back tomorrow, staying at an ashram.
The friends spend quite a bit of time together, enjoying Bollywood parties and going out. Neesha is talented musically, plays many instruments and sings. Around once a month they perform in schools, leading meditations.
Neesha works for a charity that helps disadvantaged people. The people that are referred often have complex needs. Neesha helps some prepare for interviews and helps with CVs and job applications. She really likes her job and enjoys working with people.
After photographing Neesha, we found the rest of the group and I took a few more photos.
Thank you Neesha for agreeing to be in my project. It was good to meet you and your friends today. I hope that you like the photos.
You can view more portraits and stories by visiting The Human Family
Elegance, outside the Corn Exchange.
-------------------------------------------------------
I was hanging around the Corn Exchange searching for potential portraits when I spotted the back of Jodie-Lee walking away. All I caught sight of was her long black coat, a hint of the bright blue dress underneath and her shoes. Strange how without even seeing a face that I instinctively rushed up to her and asked for her portrait.
Up until now I have found that people will stand almost dead straight when taking their picture, but Jodie-Lee seemed comfortable in striking a pose which I particularly liked.
I asked her if she was used to it and she smiled and replied "Yes" softly.
Jodie-Lee contacted me, not long after our encounter, requesting a copy of her photo. I told her I was happy to, it was both a surprise (it's the first time someone has asked), and humbling that she asked.
Enjoy your weekend!
This picture is #036 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
Stranger portrait - Scott who looked a little like a "rabbit in headlights" when I took his portrait.
I usually find my "strangers"...but Jasmine found me.
She was playing with a catapult toy at a local festival and nearly hit me. I laughed and introduced myself. She is a costume designer from Killeen who did her own costume and makeup. Very impressive I must say!
I appreciate Jasmine participating in this project, and hope she bought her five-year-old that toy!
If you would like to find other photos for those participating in this project go to www.flickr.com/groups/100strangers/
I was amazed by some stranger portraits from Benoit P.
He used a wider focal length. In this I didn't use my 50mm prime lens like in all other portraits I used the 35mm lens.
And I like the result! There is much more from the background visible, which tells a story and not only blurring.
Also I tried to make a photo at the night only with available light. No flash was used.
The girl on the image has also a flickr account.
This picture is #51 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
This is David.
Conversation didn't flow too easily with David. Does that matter? I don't think it does. Not any more. It's fine. Absolutely fine.
David was travelling along the Thames by boat and had stopped in Oxford for a few days. I think David had an accent of some sort, but I can't really remember as I met him a few months ago and the notes I took at the time are rather scant. The lovely dog's name? Geegee. Or Gee-Gee? GG? Or perhaps I'm completely mistaken.
This picture is #63 in my 100 strangers project. See the rest of my 100 strangers pictures here. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page.
Taken in Oxford, Oxfordshire, England on 10/10/2013
Bernadette favourite all time record
A Little Night Music
Mozart
Queens Walk Ealing London.
My success rate with older people isn't good, whether they are sceptical of the internet the camera or me I'm not sure, but I do try and on this occasion it worked.
Bernadette was waiting for a special bus service that takes her shopping every week. She said as soon as the bus comes she's off and it was due any minute. I took a few shots but didn't want to just snap away as I thought it was important to talk as much as I could to her. Bernadette is from Germany, the place she is from is now part of Poland and she married an occupying British officer after the war and came to England.
There was no hesitation with her choice of music, she knew straight away that was the one for her.
Her bus pulled up, I thanked her and off she went.
www.flickr.com/groups/100strangers/
© All rights reserved please do not use on any other websites or blogs without my explicit permission.
Tanya had brought her friend, also called Tanya, up the Tor today. When I asked if they had come from far, they told me that they were Russian. My stranger 356 has been living in the UK for 3 years. She lives in Dorchester with her husband and daughter. The other Tanya is just here for a visit. Both young women were in Glastonbury just for the day.
After Tanya had agreed to be in my project, she said I was "a man between two Tanya's", as they were standing either side of me. "Living in Russia", Tanya disappeared, while I was photographing her friend. I did not see her again.
Tanya describes herself as spiritual and does yoga and meditation. When I asked if she was a creative person, she agreed, telling me that she enjoys dance and rhythmic gymnastics (which she has done for 10 years).
When I asked if she had done anything like this before. She said "You mean modelling?". I meant had anyone stopped you to ask Tanya for her photo; but I said "Yes". She said "Of course" and smiled. I smiled too but didn't ask her for any more details.
We made quite a few portraits, I thanked Tanya and we went in different directions. A few moments later, I wondered if I should have offered to photograph the friends together. When I looked across to Tanya, for some reason, it didn't feel right to interrupt them again.
Thank you Tanya for being part of my project. I hope that you and Tanya enjoyed the rest of your day. It was good to meet you.
You can view more portraits and stories by visiting The Human Family
Meet Emmi! This is Stranger #1 of my 100 Strangers project, which is something I never really got around to starting until more recently :P
I saw Emmi sporting a cool biker jacket and headphones at a popular mall in San Diego, and instantly knew she would be perfect for my first portrait. Emmi is originally from Finland but was busy traveling as her line of work involves being a professional model! hah This made it so much easier to have a pro being familiar with taking portraits! :D Emmi is also interested in pursuing photography so it'd be great to see some of her work in the future too!
Thanks a lot, Emmi!
Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
Meet Erica. Erica is student at Woodland Community College and she is studying to be a nurse. After graduating from Woodland Community College, Erica would like to attend UC Davis or possibly attend Washington State College to finish off her nursing degree. An interesting fact about Erica is she really enjoys cooking. She tells me that cooking relaxes her and helps her to focus.
Thank you Erica for participating in my 100 Stranger Project.
This picture is #077 in my 100 Strangers Project. You can follow my progress in this project at Portraits by David 100 Strangers Project or Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group
Neil had taken the meet-up group over to Flinders Street Train Station which for the uninitiated it is a very famous heritage listed building where many Melbournians meet and gather at the large steps at its entrance. Today was no different there were heaps of people around not far from where Neil had just shot Tara.
As we stood observing the crowd I spotted over in the distance, standing alone at the top of the steps a smallish dark haired woman. Curiosity got the better of me, so I made my way over and introduced myself to her.
Trish agreed immediately to a photo and it just so happened that where she was standing the light was quite good so I shot her right there at varying angles and distances. She was very comfortable with the camera so I was pleased with the result.
Trish is a nurse and works in the Neurology Ward at Calvary Bethlehem Hospital. We talked about how stressful working in palliative care can be and agreed that you really need to have a good attitude with death as this is a regular, sometimes daily occurrence. Trish loves her work and is planning to do her Masters in nursing soon before she heads off for some overdue travel.
Originally from New Zealand, she recently moved to Melbourne to be with her partner. I enjoyed talking with Trish and I hope she likes her portrait.
Thanks for being part of the Strangers Project
This picture is 142 in my 2nd round of The100 Strangers Project.
You can see my 1st 100 Strangers Set here
Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
This is stranger 22 in my project and was taken in the Brick Lane area last Saturday. Magnus is a Swedish guy who has been working here for 1 and a half years and lives in Hyde Park. He was spending the weekend with Frida (my stranger 23) who was just down for the weekend.
Overall, I feel the portrait could have been better and wasn't going to put it up. But in the spirit of it being a learning group I have decided that I should post it.
For some reason I have focused on his furthest eye rather than the closest and I am not sure why I did that. It also may have been a good idea to either get him to remove his cap or using some fill flash as an alternative shot.
I wanted to take a picture of him with his tattoos showing but was struggling to get him and his arm in the frame as my lens was 50mm (75mm equivalent) and I was running out of space. I got one which I will show in the comments but it turned to be a bit soft.
Overall, I think I should have taken more time but with the weather being so crappy I was rushing and I think it shows.
Anyway, both Magnus and Frida were great subjects and very patient. Thank you for being a part of my project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the
Lucia is sitting in the grounds of Glastonbury Abbey. I walk past her and say “good morning” and she returns my greeting. I ask “Excuse me, would it be OK to take your photo”. Lucia tells me that she only speaks a little English, demonstrating “little” by holding her finger and thumb close together.
I repeat that I would like to take a photograph of her. She replies in Spanish and I must obviously look completely bemused as she then asks, in English “Just one photograph?”, while she holds one finger up.
“Maybe more?.... I'd like to get at least one good one!”, I reply. I introduce myself giving Lucia my card. When I get her name, I spell it back and she helpfully confirms it by writing each letter with her finger on her other hand.
Lucia seems to understand me perfectly as I say that I would like to take the photo in the shade of the ruins, pointing toward them (Lucia had been sitting in the bright sun and it was getting toward mid-day). Lucia follows my lead to the arch that I had seen earlier and I get her to stand in the right spot by gesturing for her to move in a particular direction or toward me.
Lucia told me that she is nervous when having her photo taken. She didn't look nervous at all and was happy with the pictures when I showed them to her on the back of the camera.
After Lucia had given me her email address we said our goodbyes. I was pleased with the meeting because Lucia's “little English” did not get in the way of making a good connection and having a friendly encounter.
Thank you Lucia for letting me take many photos of you today. It was good to meet you.
You can view more portraits and stories by visiting The Human Family
This is my 60th submission to the Human Family group.
I was having tea with a friend and her daughter when Spectra and her beautiful mother arrived and sat at the table next to us. Spectra was in quite the elaborate attire. I introduced myself and asked her if she would mind participating in my project. I was pleased that she was delighted to do so.
I thought because of her dress, she may be participating in the Celtic festival. It turns out that she was not, and just was "feeling it" today. She looked beautiful. She and her mom had come to Austin today from San Antonio to attend a The Sunshine Community Gardens Tomato Festival. They were making a day of it in the city. Spectra misses Austin. She is living with her mom in San Antonio now while she goes through chemo. These were two beautiful women and their affection for each other was touching.
Meeting these two really emphasizes that this project is so much more than just photographs.
This picture is #24 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the www.flickr.com/groups/100strangers/
I was in Philadelphia recently to run the marathon and took some time to continue my 100 Strangers Project. The first person I approached was Ryan.
Ryan is 41 years old and works as a Physiotherapist at the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. He was born here and received his Masters in Physiotherapy at Villanova University, northwest of Philadelphia.
In his spare time Ryan enjoys photography. He loves Philadelphia for its series of neighbourhoods and communities. His favourite neighbourhoods are Fishtown and the Port of Richmond. Fishtown is known as a working class Irish Catholic neighbourhood and is located immediately northeast of Center City. Port Richmond is a neighbourhood in the River Wards section of Philadelphia, and is notable for its extremely large Polish immigrant and Polish American community. The neighbourhood is also home to sizable Irish, German and Italian communities.
This picture is #57 in my 100 Strangers Project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
I saw Florien walking about earlier while @UrbanScot and I were on the search for strangers, but he managed to get away. As is often the case, if you are patient a second opportunity can sometimes present itself. And so the second time I saw him I did not hesitate to approach him. He kindly agreed to a portrait and then it was up to me to find the suitable backdrop. This white wall seemed appropriate allowing his sense of style to shine. I added a reflector to allow a little pop into his eyes too.
Florien works in tech but has an avid interest in fashion as you can and from this and the other shots of him that I have shared.
Of the portraits this was my favourite I though it could be the on the cover of i-D Magazine (where the cover star always has one eye obscured)
Thank you Florien for a moment of your time. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the
100 Strangers Flickr Group Page
Connect with me on instagram where my handle is @arnabkghosal
or visit my website
See Zahra sing I Believe in a Daydream on Youtube. Zahra would like to live in Glastonbury. She is living in the city of Bristol at the moment and had lots of nice things to say about it. Before that she lived in Ireland. She had come with a friend to Glastonbury, yesterday.
When I met Zahra, she was walking up the high street. I approached and asked if I might take her photo. When she agreed, I suggested we walk a little further to find somewhere we could sit down. She said that she was just going for a pee but could wait until after. I said that I could wait outside the cafe and we could do the photos afterwards. As she went into Excalibur I said "I hope that you don't go out the back way".
While I waited for Zahra, I looked for a likely spot to make photos. There are a few benches on the high street. I have used these before. I had a 50mm lens and my full frame camera, so a bench would be good for a nice close portrait. It was a busy day and most of the benches were full. As we crossed the road to the one bench that had some space on it, I noticed that there were some people sitting on the grass outside the church. Thankfully Zahra was OK with sitting on the grass.
As we sat in the grounds of St John's church, Zahra noticed a small child that was interested in our impromptu photo-shoot. Zahra also commented in a favourable way about he number of dogs around. There was a real holiday feel about the town today, with lots of families here, because of the half-term break.
It was market day in Glastonbury and I had initially thought that Zahra, had been working on one of the stalls. That she was just having a quick break before going back to work. "I wish, they are great", she said, when I told her of my assumption. Back in Bristol she is gearing up for the festivals. She won't be doing Glastonbury festival, it hasn't got the right kind of vibe.
Zahra plays guitar and sings. When I asked about instruments she said that she can put her hand to most. She was hoping to buy an Irish (I think) whistle. Someone had mentioned a shop in the town where she might get one. Having discovered that Zahra wasn't working today, we spent a bit of time on the portraits, swapping places and moving a little around the grounds.
As we were parting, I asked Zahra if there was anything she would like to share with the world. Zahra thought this was a great question and thanked me for asking it. She said that she would "our music to reach people" or something like that. I am afraid that I got distracted because someone interrupted our conversation at that point. I asked what Zahra meant by "our music", she said "me and my guitar". I think that she was hoping for others to be moved and inspired through her music.
Thank you Zahra for agreeing to be part of my project. It was good to meet you today.
You can view more portraits and stories by visiting The Human Family
This picture is #28 in my 3rd round of the 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
We were walking down Brick Lane after taking a break for a coffee when the rain started. Being a positive sort of people we ducked into an alleyway and Peter decided to set up his lighting kit in order to drag in a suitable stranger. While this was happening, the rain stopped and I went off down the road to see what I could see. There I saw this lovely girl reading a book and I asked her for a picture. I know I made a recording on my phone with some notes, along with her name, but somehow it must have not saved properly because I can't find it now. Which is terrible as it means I can't remember her name or any details.
I went for the shot because I liked how her leopard print jacket worked with the brick backround, and she has a classic beauty that I knew would make a great portrait. And she was a lovely girl but I can't remember much more.
If you see this, please get in touch and remind me so I can update this. I feel awful but I still like the picture.
If you like my work, please follow me on Facebook
This was my first approach to photographing strangers. I saw these two lovely girls sitting down on the stairs right in front of the Duomo, in Milan, and after a while wondering if it was a good idea to break the ice in this experience with such pretty girls, I took courage and walked towards them. "I know that it is a little embarassing, but I want to ask you to take your photo." After explaining the porpouse of the project and admitting that "honestly I'm starting today, this is my first photo", they kindly accepted to do it.
I took a first few photos from below, with the Duomo on the background, but it was still too bright and the white stone of the cathedral was ruining the colours. So I started talking to them, before changing the angle. They are german and live near Dusseldorf and are here in Milan for a trip just to visit this city. The girl with red hair on the left is Pia and the blonde one on the right is Valerie; at first I didn't understand her name and I had to have it written down, realising soon after that it was easy to get, if I had only listened more carefully. So then I asked to shoot a few last photos, with the set of the Palazzo Reale behind them, and apparently it was a good choice, even if their face has shadows on the left. I decided to go for a selective focus, with f/4 and 50.0mm, and I regret this, becouse in each photo only one of the two has a detailed portrait. Anyway, I was still a little nervous so I didn't take time to change the settings. I eventually chose this pic among the others, becouse their expressions are natural, even if not fully smiling.
Thank you again, Pia and Valerie, have a nice stay in Milan!
This picture is #01 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
I stopped Mark because I was intrigued by his huge, professional looking headphones that he had draped around his neck. He agreed to a portrait immediately and seemed quite excited about it. The combination of his scarf, hat and phones looked cool to me. It's quite common see people listening to music as they go about their day as Newtown’s music scene is well known and highly regarded, it does tend to draw music lovers in. I positioned him facing the light and quickly took a few shots while his friend Evan watched on.
Mark is an Audio Engineer which explains the top notch headphones he was wearing. He works for Sydney’s TV stations Channel 7 and ABC 3 kids. Music is also big part of his life as he and Evan are thinking about starting an Electronica dance band. Evan has already had some success with music releasing an EP called Clulow which got some airplay on a local radio station.
I enjoyed meeting them both and I wish them all the best with their music.
Thanks for being part of the 100 Strangers Project.
This picture is #163 in my 2nd round of The100 Strangers Project.
You can see my 1st 100 Strangers Set here
Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
F.R. is born in Afghanistan and lives in Giessen Germany.
He is study math and philosophy at the university.
Like always I shot with my old Pentax M 50mm in full Manual mode. An second one with the Takumar 135mm. I like this one most, because of the nice building in the background and the 3D effect.
Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
Ab was an architect living in Honolulu but he left it behind to work at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park giving tours and teaching people about the story of Hawaii and volcano goddess Pele. He also teaches hula in schools.
He is my 253rd portrait in the Flickr challenge to shoot photos of 100 strangers: www.flickr.com/groups/100strangers/. I'm going veeerrryy slowly this third round.
You can see my full set of Stranger photos (so far) here: www.flickr.com/photos/joemoconnell/sets/72157627547511612...
hello to you all!
This is my thirty fifth stranger, his name is Patrick Howard, He is Australian
the story behind is..
me and my friend was asked by our professor to accompany his friend to Borobudur Temple. his name is Professor Bodeker and he brought a friend, Patrick Howard.
as we exploring Borobudur, we got a chance to know each other through the conversation we made. from the conversation, i knew Patrick is a retired physicologist (correct me if i am wrong, Patrick, hehe) and he managed to learn basic French when he was at school.
while we were enjoying the best angle to capture Borobudur, it popped out suddenly from my head to ask him to be my stranger. well this is the advantage of asking people from abroad, they will volunteer themselves even before we finish our explanation about 100 stranger project :)
took much-the-same-shots of him, and i think this is the best i could get. thank you, Sir!
This picture is #35 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
This picture is #35 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at http://www.100strangers.com/
Earlier there had been snow, rain and hail. In a break between storms I decided to see if I might find my 100th Stranger. Although the sun had come out it was cold and damp. There were very few people about today. Sandra was the exception.
I saw her sitting outside a café in Clarks Village. The shop used to be Starbucks and now is Nero. Twice when it had been Starbucks I had approached strangers and both times was refused - a 100% rejection rate! So I walked past Sandra a couple times before deciding to approach her. She had a coffee and was reading and smoking.
When I asked if I could take her photo she agreed and then asked me why. So I told her about the project. [Sandra is the third stranger that I have asked at a Nero café – and all have said “yes” - 100% acceptance.] We chatted for a while. Her partner, Hugh, arrived before I had taken my first photo.
Sandra is an artist and has a craft shop. She was in Street today for a bit of calmness – escaping the madness of Glastonbury. Funny because while we were chatting a couple of people that she knew from Glastonbury came and said hello.
Her next project will follow nine months of preparation as she visits several special sites; doing sketches and taking photos. She also collects objects (e.g. twigs), experiences and memories to inspire her work.
Sandra was hoping to get a telescope from a local charity shop for Hugh and herself. Somebody else had reserved it but Sandra had offered more money and was hoping that she would get it - like auction style. I was passing the charity shop on my way home and the telescope looked like a good deal.
Both Hugh and Sandra thought that the 100 strangers project was a great idea. They wondered what I might do now that I have 100. I said that I had wondered about maybe printing them all on a canvas or maybe in a book. Either way I don't think that it will be long before I start my second round. I told Sandra and Hugh that I enjoy it too much to stop and that the purposes are to improve my photography and meet and engage with people.
Since I started this project, in May, I have met lots of folk that I might not have otherwise. It has been terrific to meet so many different people and it has increased my confidence with my camera. Thank you so much to everyone that agreed to take part. It would not have been possible to do this without you!
Thank you Sandra for agreeing to be part of my project. I wish you well with your exhibition and your ongoing work.
This picture is #100 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
Today, as the weather is nice, there are lot of people in the city center of Caen. It's not really interesting because most of people are grouped (I don't want to ask several people at a time), and lot of people have sun glasses. this can make nice pictures, but, at the moment I'm quite focused on people eyes, so I want strangers without sunglasses. Ok, I can ask them to take them out, but I like also to photograph people as I see them at the first glance !
Fortunately, I crossed the path of Emilie who gave me some funny poses and a nice duck ass !! :D By the way, she works in the theatre of Caen, at the entrance.
Thank you for that funny time Emilie !
Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page.
_____
Edit: Actually I already known Emilie Before taking her portrait, but I think this photo is still valid for my project. I met her 10 years ago in some parties, then I did not see her anymore. That's why I did not recognize her. But, When I did my post treatment, I felt that her smile was familiar... it is ! A friend of mine refreshed my mind when he saw the photos ! Funny ! And I don't even know if she recognized me !
Hopefully nobody will ask (nor she did) why I asked this lady for a portrait :-)
The story goes as follows: Emma is an irish girl that currently lives and works in Barcelona as a tourist guide. That day was the 21st of june (yep, I'm entirely responsible for the delay) and she was taking a rest from her walk with a large group of swedish tourists, next to Plaça Reial's central fountain . For those of you who don't know, Midsummer's Eve -Midsommar in swedish- is an important festivity in the country, that is enjoyed still in a genuïne way if we compare it to other Midsummers's eve celebrations in Europe.
One of the traits of this unicity involves wearing crowns of leaves and flowers, and even though this one was made of rhododendrons, it is instantly recognizable, so that's why I first took her for a swede.
That being said, I don't know if I was the first to ask her for a portrait -she gladly accepted- but I wasn't the last. Even a father asked her if she could hold her little daughter in her lap for a photo. What an attraction!
Jokes aside, we had a brief chat and some good laughs, and we agreed to have the picture sento to her, though I've received no reply, so far.
Thanks for your sense of humour, Emma!
This picture is #30 in my 100 strangers project. Check out the rest of the stranger street portraits in my project at the 100 Strangers Set or find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page.
This is Stranger 3, who was out with her friend Stranger 2 while Stranger 2’s niece played at a park near the Rock Hall on 9th St. She was very outgoing and fun to talk with. For these portraits I wanted more of a closer in shot, closer to a headshot style portrait. This was still part of the session my buddy and I were doing for 100 strangers while also restricted to no added lighting and 50mm focal length. We don’t intend to have the same restrictions for every shoot, but will probably incorporate flash at times and shoot at different focal lengths for each session.
So this is the friend that Stranger #4 was waiting for.
Chatted about some random things with the two of them over a beer.
When I started this project, I finally started using my business cards. Although I offered to e-mail everyone that's taken part so far a copy of their picture, no one's got in touch yet.
I've gone for another desaturated look, don't think I've got it quite right.
This picture is #005 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
It’s been a while since I’ve had the time to spend a day stranger shooting and today I was with my wife and Evan strolling through Pitt Street Mall which is a bit of an old haunt for Evan, but a first for me.
We ducked into a small arcade to see what was happening and that’s when I spotted two ladies having coffee at some outdoor tables.
Tapiwa’s delicate features caught my attention, so I gingerly made my way over and interrupted their conversation to ask for a photo. She was more than happy to oblige and be part of the project and so we moved to the centre of the arcade where the light was little better. I had originally intended to use a reflector today but the light was so good and @ f1.4 on the 85mm I didn’t bother and quickly fired a few shots. I stopped to show her the results when I discovered that all the images were extremely underexposed. I had committed the cardinal sin of not checking my camera settings before leaving home. My camera was in Manual Mode from a previous indoor shoot and I had assumed it was in my normal stranger mode of Aperture Priority. Doh! Feeling rather embarrassed I sheepishly asked to shoot again and luckily for me she agreed.
Tapiwa is originally from Botswana and has been in Australia for 9 years. She lives in the Northern Territory capital of Darwin and works in indigenous health research. She absolutely loves her work and where she lives. Today she was in Sydney meeting up with friends. I found her to be friendly, warm and very confident which I think shows in her portrait. Just the right kind of stranger to get me “back on the horse.“
Thanks for being part of the 100 Strangers Project and teaching me a valuable lesson about sticking to my normal pre shoot checks.
This picture is #185 in my 2nd round of The100 Strangers Project.
You can see my 1st 100 Strangers Set here
Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
A couple of days ago, as I was preparing for backpacking through Belgium and Italy, I thought it was a great chance to start the 100 strangers project. So, I printed some business-card type contact cards in case I did manage to photograph any stranger.
I set off to Brussels where I saw people with interesting looks to photograph but did not manage to get rid of my shyness. The same thing happened as I moved through Milan, Venice, and Pisa.
Then, while in Rome, I saw these guys near the Coliseum. They were chasing or pushing each other as they moved through the sidewalk. They were irradiating affection and care for each other. Unfortunately, I was caught up in the moment and also got nervous, so I did nothing.
A few minutes later, as I was wandering through the city, I saw them a second time! Now, I did approach them. I was nervous but managed to explain how I was touched by their interactions earlier. I think I managed to explain I was learning to shot portraits and asked for their permission for a picture. They agreed!
I got very excited. Unfortunately, I forgot to ask any more details about them, failed to explain about the project, and almost miss the photo due to over-exposing my shot. I did not pay enough attention to the camera settings (previously, I was shooting manual mode for an under-lighted subject) and this shot had strong sunlight! (Thanks to Lightroom I was able to fix my mistake)
Also, I only fired the shutter once! Then, I abruptly thanked their help, wished them a good day, and just managed to handle one of the contact cards.
For my first portrait, I see plenty of room for improving technical- and social-wise.
This picture is 001 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
Strangers #5 and #6 continued...
Meet Andrea, Stranger Number 6 of 100. Andrea was quiet for much of the exchange about the workings of The Foundry as she sat cutting fabric into the shapes of flowers. Her art form has been inspired by many years of working at a local garden store and by taking photographs of nature. Andreaâs floral three dimensional quilted wallhangings are as lovely as she is. Should you find yourself nearby, Iâd encourage you to stop at The Foundry to see them. If you happen to find Andrea working, be sure to ask about her current challenge of recreating the floret and stigma of a dandelion.
Although Andrea's lovely spirit shines through in her portrait, I wish I would have done a few things differently. First, most of my practice has been outdoors. I have much to learn about indoor lighting and flashes. Reducing the flash reflection in her glasses was a challenge and it's still not quite right. Second, although I did take time to consider how to compose the photo (shooting her as she cut her flowers), I ended up using a shot without context so I could better showcase her eyes. I regret not taking a picture in front of her beautiful quilts. I'm sure this won't be the last time I have regrets about the details of a portrait in my 100 Stranger series. However, I can only hope that those photos will still express the personality of my subject as I feel Andrea's does.
This photo is included in the group 100 strangers:
www.flickr.com/groups/100strangers/pool/
This photo is included in the Human Family Group. To view more street portraits and stories visit:
“Everyone should be vegan”
I met Thom on Glastonbury High Street. He agreed straight away when I asked if I could take his photo. When I asked if he had anything that he would like to share with the world he thought for a bit and said “everyone should be vegan”.
I mentioned that my daughter once had a vegan boyfriend . When making bread, I would use olive oil instead of butter. I continue to use olive oil as it is easier to measure and the bread tastes good.
I asked Thom about his reasons for being a vegan. The treatment of animals, the cost of producing meat as opposed to other forms of food were the ones that I had thought of. Thom told me that the production of meat is a major cause of pollution being the biggest source of river pollution in the UK. I told him that I had imagined that the chemical companies caused river pollution but I could see that they probably have to adhere to all kinds of regulations with regard to avoiding pollution
Thank you Thom for agreeing to be in my my project. It was good to meet you.
This picture is 81 in my second round of 100 strangers. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
This was a fleeting encounter - I saw Charlie standing in a doorway in York with a friend who looked like he was taking a break from busking. I asked Charlie's permission to take the photo and asked him to move from the doorway into some better light.
I fired off a few quick shots, some with and some without flash. This was my favourite of the set. It did look very over-exposed on the back of the camera, but there was still plenty of detail that could be recovered from the raw file in Lightroom.
Many thanks, Charlie, for agreeing to be part of the project.
Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
It wasn’t hard to miss the bright pink shirt that my next stranger was wearing and his distinct blue nail polish, so from across the road I quickly ran over to ask for a photo.
Casio (this is his “artist” name) was talking with his friend when I approached him.
He was very reserved & I got the sense that he wasn’t terribly interested in being part of the project, but his friend talked him into it after I explained what it was about.
Casio is an artist who designs clothing but specialises in creating crocheted wearable art. Not being sure what that meant he then showed me some pictures on his iPhone.
These costumes are life size and are designed as an art form but are wholly made by crocheting. Quite amazing!
Casio had really unique sense of style & was very confident in his own skin.
What topped his look off for me were his purple side burns. Very cool indeed!
Thanks for being part of my Strangers Project and good luck with your artwork.
This picture is #105 in my 2nd round of The100 Strangers Project.
Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page