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Compositional Elements: rule of thirds, balance (symmetrical), lines and shapes, repetition.
Behind the Photo: I asked the waitress at OutBack Steakhouse if I could take a picture of her and she agreed!
Camera Settings: scene/party.indoor, image mode/1024x768, ISO: 400
Edits: I removed the light wire/pole, which was actually coming out of her head. I brightened the photo up a bit and cropped it.
I didn't get her name but this has been her dream job since she was a child and she's been working in Colonial Williamsburg for over 8 years. Her dad was a history teacher in MD and she frequently came to Williamsburg as a child and dreamed of someday working as one of the historical figures. When she retired she moved to Williamsburg just to be able to take this job.
She is living her dream and was incredibly happy to be here.
I'm counting this one as a stranger portrait because I did ask her permission and talk to her for quite a while. I've got a good number of other re-enactors but haven't added them to the set because I didn't have the necessary conversations.
This picture is #22 in my www.100Strangers.com project
Finally got a new stranger photo for this project!
Meet Ahli. She's originally from Wisconsin, but just moved to New York by way of Bangkok. She works in fashion design.
We were watching one of my favorite bands perform at the Celebrate Brooklyn concert last night, when I finally got the nerve to ask for a photo. Without even explaining the project (come to think of it, I don't think I ever explained it to her), she said 'yes'. When the show was over we found out she had come alone, so we asked her to come out and join us for a few drinks in the neighborhood, which she did.
After a couple hours, it was time to part ways, but we planned to meet up at a different show today.
It was nice meeting you, Ahli. Hope you like the photo!
This was photo #2 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at: www.flickr.com/groups/100strangers/
I was walking close to the Colosseo area when I saw a huge soap bubble floating in the air. Instinctively I took a shot of it without paying attention where it came from.
Then Helena smiled me so I thought it would have been nice to show her the picture.
Helena spoke Italian but with a strong Spanish accent. "From which part of Spain do you come from?" was my first question. "Vitoria, Basque Country", she replied. "Another one?" I said. "My last stranger came from Basque Country too. Did you arrive in Rome all together?" I asked, teasing her.
Then we spent more almost an hour chatting. "... and what's your job in Spain?" I asked. "Job? Which job? I do not work. Work is an invention of human beings to feed their useless needs in this system called capitalism!".
So, this is Helena. Every "normal" question turned into a philosophical discussion. "My main job is to live. Isn't that enough?", she said. "It is, of course!! I answered, what else could I say?", "... and to know myself deeper and deeper", she added. "... today I earned 30 euros with the soap bubbles, I don't need 30 euros a day to live!", and: "last summer I crossed the Atlantic Ocean sailing just because I wanted to do it. Then I lived some months in the Caribbean!". "It's nice Helena, everything you say it's nice, but you have to be able to afford it, somehow", I tried to tell her without much conviction ...
Anyway, Helena will spend some months in Rome (just because she didn't know it yet, of course) and maybe I'll bump into her some other times. Who knows, maybe she'll become a millionaire with her huge and fantastic soap bubbles and she'll change her mind on how life goes!
Thank you Helena for sharing your time and for participating in my project!
This picture is #36 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 #2 of my second round!
Laura was sitting relaxed on a bench with her friend Arina (Stranger #3) in Kassel. I decided to interrupt them and to explain my desire.
Yes, of course, I can take the photo, both answered friendly. Both were amused and let me try different settings. So I have some really nice photos of them. This is just a small selection.
Laura's apprentice as a retail saleswoman here in Kassel. What would you change, if you would be the mayor of this city, I asked. I would make the city safer, both replied. It is not quite safe to walk alone in the dark through the town. Something needs to be done.
My "lonely island-question":
I would carry on an island something to eat & drink, a cellphone and my friend Arina.
I handed my card and promised to send full size copies of the photos to both. Meanwhile I recieved a massage of Arina. She had looked into my stream, which she really likes. She is looking forward to the photos.
Thank you Laura and Arina for letting my take the photos. It was nice to meet and to talk to you. All the best to you. The copies are on the way. :-)
This picture is #2 of my 100 Strangers project -round 2- . Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
My first 100 strangers you can find here:
I was standing about 30m from Akim when i saw him. I watched him move through the crowd until he stopped at a pedestrian crossing - this is when i approached him and told him about the project. Hi answer was 'Oh sure, do you want my headphones on or off?', it was almost as if someone had already asked him that day (this is a possibility as there were more than 60 photographers around Causeway Bay that day doing the stranger project).
Reflecting on this image now, I wish I had shot it at f2 or 2.2, to get his ears a bit more in focus, and i wish i had asked him where he was from and what he was listening to... Any guesses? Mine is Israel and Skrillex - Bangarang.
29,232 Strangers(and counting) at the 100 strangers group
I went into the city again and saw Diana just seconds after I got out off the subway station. She was walking ahead of me, so I had to catch up to her. She had earphones in, I think, but she took them out when I was talking next to her.
I told her about my project and asked if I could take a shot of her which she accepted after being a little astounded. She asked "where?" Since she had been walking right into the direction to the small alleyway where I wanted to photograph the woman I asked right before stranger #14 (who rejected), I asked her to go there. Besides of the great outcome of the image, the fact that I could use that background after all makes me really happy.
I took a shot and was quite pleased with it, but a strand of hair was on her forehead, so I asked her to brush it off and shot again. It was slightly a different angle that looks much better than the first ones. Good that I noticed the strand :)
She asked a little more about the project and my field of study. And what kind of camera I had. I told her that she could check out her image at the address on my card and that she could contact me if she liked the picture.
I should have asked more about her, don't know why I forgot..
Anyway, I think the image might be my new favourite. Diana is quite a beautiful subject, too.
To the technical aspect, I stopped down to f2.0 today, since my last image (at 1.4) was really soft and I wanted it a bit sharper. It was totally worth it. Also, since my focus adjustment that I have had done, it is spot on. Now it's really fun to work with.
Diana, thank you again for letting me photograph you! If you like it, I will of course send you the full resolution file.
This picture is #15 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 made a Facebook page, so please check it out and like if you like :)
PS: Constructive criticism is appreciated!
Vita is #057 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.
My husband and I are sitting at the bar in Trillium Cafe in Hood River, Oregon. I am listening to the man sitting next to me about his yoga instructor class. I thought my husband was also listening but I begin to overhear a woman talk about her sexual escapades in France with my husband. I glance over wondering who this person is, talking to my husband about such a subject, and I see Vita.
Vita is from Vancouver, Washington but now lives with her parents in a nearby small town just over the border in Washington. The previous May, Vita had mentored a group of film students as they attended the Cannes Film Festival in France and she had not denied herself any of the opportunities to party hard and "hook up" with other film festival attendees. From her stories, it sounded like one of the wildest and most extravagant parties on the planet. I slightly recall hearing something similar from a roommate ten years before, but she had a boyfriend at the time and had kept herself out of "trouble". Vita also had some very interesting tales to tell about living in Los Angeles and the "insider" information she had on certain celebrities and what they are really like. They were almost too outrageous to believe.
Vita is a very friendly person, she is full of life. She has three dogs (pit bulls) and no boyfriend or job. She recently broke up with a poet from Milwaukie who broke her heart. Her heart is often broken. The only two bachelors in her current town are, unfortunately, the local child sex offender and the star high school quarterback, so obviously they do not qualify as eligible bachelors. This is why she is hanging out on a week night in Hood River. Vita is looking for a job and the love of her life. I suspect she wants to love someone deeply and, perhaps even stronger, to be loved in return. Later in the evening Matt, Stranger #56 that we met earlier in the day, walked in to the bar. He was there to meet a friend and we all started talking. There is more to this story, but I will wait to describe that with my next stranger, Chris.
This was a challenging photo because it was night and very dark in the bar. I propped my elbow on the bar and locked in the camera the best I could. I am a left eye shooter and I have heard some say we have an advantage in body positioning options for stabilizing the camera but I don't know.
For more, read: Exploring Hood River, Oregon.
Vikki is the perfect travelling companion. I've met pretty girls before, I've met funny people, I've met people who are interesting and make you smile. Vikki is all of those things, wrapped up into a bundle of fun and energy. She made a two and a half hour train journey feel like two and a half minutes. It is incredible how entertaining it can be watching somebody brush their teeth on the move.
Typical of the Scottish people I have met, Vikki is very down to earth. No airs and graces. Just honest, open and upfront. When Mr Right appears in Vikki's life he will be a very lucky man. I did suggest that Scousers make the best boyfriend material so somewhere some lucky bloke from back home owes me a pint.
Of course Vikki agreed to be my next stranger. In fact, when she heard about the 100 strangers project she was so interested she said she was getting a camera and going to have a go. Watch out society at large! I think she thought I was going to use my camera phone to take the picture so when I opened my bag and a DSLR appeared I think she was a little surprised. I fired off a couple of shots with my 60mm macro lens that was already on the camera. Vikki thought these looked a little too close up so I chnaged lens and had a go with my 50mm. Results from the nifty 50 are below in the comments. Vikki preferred the slighty further away image but with a face like this she can easily pull off the close up. I frear a close of me wouldn't fare so well.
I've had a couple of poor images now, and my first "stranger refusal" so it was a delight to meet Vikki and have her help me continue with my 100 strangers project on Flickr. If you ever see this Vikki, then thank you ever so much for restoring my confidence and getting me back on track with the project. A true angel.
On a rare, hot Sunday afternoon, I spotted Bernie waiting for a bus in Newcastle.
He looked incredibly smart from top to toe, and I had to find out why.
Turns out that Bernie is a preacher. He preaches in 3 churches on a Sunday and was en route to his next church.
We had such a good chat. Originally from Holland, Bernie is a born again Christian - finding God after (in his words) his 'war' ie. personal struggles.
We also had a great discussion about the recent EU referendum result, and put the whole world right. :)
Thank you for your time today Bernie, it was lovely meeting you, and I enjoyed our conversation. I hope you find the photo!
This picture is #67 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
Will was enjoying a coffee with a friend seated at the outside seats at Café 12 when I interrupted him to ask the obvious question.
He was very friendly and very interested in the project and instantly agreed to participate. So we moved to a shaded area and took a few shots.
Will is a local and works as a Water and Nature Scaper. He specialises in designing and making water features/fountains. Originally from Singapore he has been in Australia for 15 years. He invited me down to his workshop/warehouse to look at his work which sounded interesting, so I might just take him up on the offer. He said that he also does healing work with Reflexology from time to time.
I liked Will’s combination of the beret and glasses and for some reason he reminded me of the actor, Laurence Fishburne. Normally I would post a image without glasses, but I think they complete the image I have of him and complement his style.
Will and his lady friend were super nice and their warmth made for an all round pleasant encounter.
Thanks for being part of the 100 Strangers Project.
This picture is #151 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 was the best make up job i have ever seen!! she said it took her three hours to do it….don't you love the red eyes?? my hubby and I were invited to a wedding reception/ costume party. everyone dressed in halloween getup for the bride and groom…it was really fun! I knew I would find a stranger at the party, and here she is. This is Chavana. She is a friend of the groom, and an awesome makeup artist!! www.flickr.com/groups/100strangers/
Well, what a day it has been!
I went out during my lunch break to photograph some more people when I got a text from a fellow photographer saying he was in town. As he also takes street portraits, I dashed off to meet up with him. It's always nice to interact and play off each others techniques I find.
We walked round the market area of the city where John is most comfortable, and I am not at ease at all I must admit. The choice of characters and people simply sways me but I hope to change that in the future. Whether this will happen or not we will see.
Anyway, we ventured out into a territory I was more familiar with and within minutes I spotted Drew here. Isn't his hair awesome?! :)
Drew is a student at the local University, studying Journalism.
After work, I had planned to visit the 'Portrait Salon' exhibition at the excellent WhiteClothGallery venue. However, before that John was keen to capture a Satellite Flare which was to take place at 18:02 in that area (yes, it’s THAT precise).
If, like me before today, you don’t know what a satellite flare is, here is a brief description from Wiki: "phenomenon caused by the reflective surfaces on satellites reflecting sunlight directly onto the Earth below and appearing as a brief, bright flare”.
So we found a nice, dark spot near the canal and waited for 18:02 to come around. Although it was a short event (less than 30s I’d say) it was still a beautiful thing to witness. Who knew that these types of things happened whilst we went around our normal, daily lives?
Back to the exhibition, where we met up with a couple more photographers, had a few drinks and enjoyed the portrait slideshow. The ‘Portrait Salon’ is described as an exhibition of works rejected from a juried art show, or as John put it “the rejects”. He was kidding of course, without exhibitions like these it would be impossible to showcase or see artists’ work that may otherwise go unseen.
At the exhibition there were a lot of students, from the local colleges/universities I presume, who had an interest in art and/or photography. All of us took it upon ourselves to take pictures/portraits of the interesting students we found there. They didn’t know what they had got themselves in for, hahaha! :D
All in all, a long and tiring day...but filled with the things I love.
This picture is #097 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
"Hi guys, would you like to be part of my photographic project?" "I would like to see your photographic project, not being part of it!" So began the conversation with William and Heather (coming next). But after a while, and without insisting too much, they also agree to be part of it. Met in Trastevere where they were having a walk in a great sunny day. William is Canadian, Heather comes from United States. They're in Rome to visit Heather's brother, but mainly for leisure.
So, thank you Will for BEING PART of my project!
This picture is #8 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
Stefano was quite interested in the project, probably because he's a tv news director and photography culture runs in his family. Asked for a smile, he went dark: "Not the best time for smiling..." Camera down and off the record, we started a little chat about nowadays crisis in tv news world (his work) and advertising (mine), and a better connection was made. This is the first time I really don't remember ANYTHING about the moment I took the shot. It was simply included in meeting a new friend.
This picture is #60 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 #20/100: Holly
I recently moved to Sheffield where I hope to restart my mission to get to 100 strangers. Getting back in the saddle after a bit of a break it took me quite a bit of courage to approach someone in a busy lunchtime break. People looked hassled and unapproachable. I lurked at the entrance of small shopping centre and waited to see if inspiration would hit me. And then it turned up in the shape of this colourful stranger with striking blue hair.
I gingerly introduced myself to her. She was with a friend and they were chatting but stationery, unlike others bustling past with a sense of urgency. This gave me courage. After I explained my motives the two girls relaxed and I learnt that they were both trainee nurses. Cyan-maned Holly is currently working as a healthcare assistant but due to start her nursing degree at Hallam later this year. Her mate is already at Uni. No wonder they seemed more approachable to me. Nurses are lovely aren't they.
Holly had just done 4 days of work and was having 3 days off. I asked if her work was tough, knowing full well that it is. She shrugged and accepted this assessment but chose not to complain. A good sign if she wants to do caring work.
When I started setting up for my portrait Holly became a little self conscious. I took a few long shots and then moved closer for more intimate framing. It was shaded in the shopping centre causeway but sunny just outside so I got some decent reflected light. In the end I choose the wider angle because I always feel the context makes an image speak much louder. While I had a lovely shot of Holly peering into the lens with a vulnerable expression I preferred this shot because you can see where she is and the image reveals her slightly shy, feminine demeanor. She smiles broadly and wholeheartedly. She made a comment about how her eyes squint when she smiles and this image shows that. It also shows how beautiful and gentle her soul looks through that smile. Thanks Holly for brightening up my day and helping me continue my journey to 100 strangers.
This is Stranger 20 in my 100 Strangers project. To find out more visit the 100 Strangers page on Flickr.
This was the second stranger I approached during my first session getting street portraits of strangers. She was sitting with her friend, Stranger 3, while watching her niece play at the park, also at 9th Street in Cleveland near the Rock Hall. Trying to control shadows from the harsh sun, I decided to shoot these in the shade of the concrete steps they were sitting on. They were very interested in our project and gave us a hard time for not having Instagram! I ended up texting her the link to my Flickr account so they could see the portraits we produced.
I was just about to call it a day and was heading back to my car when I saw Stranger #21 coming towards me. I almost didn't bother her, but I'm glad I did, and she obliged me with this beautiful shot.
I sought to meet my next stranger, not for a portrait but to pet her family and to hear her story. Retha and her husband live full time in an RV with their eleven Japanese Chin dogs. With a folding fence running the length of their RV and eleven long haired spaniels with oversized eyes and short muzzles running around outside, they were the talk of the park that I was visting.
Being quite accustomed to attracting attention, Retha and her husband were very willing to share their story and tell us about this unique breed of dog. Her long-haired friends were retired from the show ring and breeding, and were now enjoying their days traveling around the country making new friends.
I tried in vain to get a photo of all of her adorable dogs at once but they did not cooperate. Instead Retha agreed to participate in my stranger challenge. I took her picture sharing her lap with two of her friendly travel mates.
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:
Stranger Things Haus von Joyce Beyers mit Schuppen und Castle Beyers so wie mit Demogogon und Demodogs.
Having completed Annamaria’s portrait (stranger 51), I met my friend on Denmark Street, the little street full of music shops just of Tottenham Court Road in London. He was intrigued by the project and wanted to see me in action to get a taste of what was involved. It was getting dark now but I was game.
When I saw the alleyway to the side of Hanks Guitars shop with its purple façade and the mass of papers on the left hand side, I knew I had my backdrop. All I had to do now was to find a stranger. Being a road full of music shops there quite a few musicians there who I thought would make great strangers. After one friendly rejection followed by a rejection from a police officer (off duty and also friendly), I saw Nathan standing across the road and felt he was perfect. He was game and so I moved him into position.
I had already tested the shot with my friend and decided that the 35mm would be better. I also bumped the ISO up to 800 to ensure that I could keep the shutter speed at an acceptable level. After a few shots without a reflector, I brought it out to see if it would help. It was marginal as to whether it was helping or not but it did help to bring a hint of a catchlight to the eyes.
I tried a few shots with some more smiley expressions but there is something about his melancholic eyes in this shot that I find really compelling.
I opted to go black and white on this one as I was struggling with the white balance between background and the foreground and using Zack Arias’s tips went for B&W. In my next shot I use the same alleyway and stayed using Lightroom to sort out the white balance. For this one, however, I think the black and white works better.
Nathan is a sound engineer and would look the part in any rock band. He was happy to have his portrait taken even though he was slightly self conscious about his tatty headphones.
Thanks Nathan for being a part of my project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the
100 Strangers Flickr Group Page
As always any critique welcome
Danny asked me if I had been up the Tor and I said "no". When he started telling me about the views, I realised that I had missunderstood his question. I had thought he meant "had I been up the Tor today" but he was asking if I had ever been there. When I replied that I visit the tor frequently he asked me if I had been to "Deers Leap", evidently the landscape is wonderful and I need to make a visit.
When Danny had first seen me, I had been reviewing photos of Lucy, my stranger 338. I was looking at them in the electronic viewfinder. As the camera was pointing at a downward angle, Danny imagined that I was taking photos of the pavement. I am not surprised that he thought that I would make better images on Glastonbury Tor, than taking photos of the footpath!
I told Danny of my interest in making portraits of strangers and asked if he would like to be part of my project. Danny was a warm and friendly character and he was a very willing to participate. He told me that he had just come from a visit to the dentist so he might have difficulty smiling.
While we were chatting, Danny said that I might be interested to know that his grandfather was the comedian Tommy Cooper. Check him out on Youtube.
Danny is a professional hat maker (Here's his fb page). He also works as a self-employed chef and has been running festival events with his partner, Zara. She had been running this business for three years before they got together. His delight at the moment is Alice, their 3 month old daughter. Danny is also a photographer and has been a film maker.
Danny told me that he would like to work with young offenders. He left home when he was 13 and was homeless for many years. He learned many things the hard way and he would like to help others to know that there are better ways than being the wrong side of the law. Danny had a spell living in the woods and more later had a hand in starting Runnymede Eco-Village.
Thank you Danny for agreeing to be part of my project. It was good to meet you. I hope that you like the photos and send best wishes to you and your family.
You can view more portraits and stories by visiting The Human Family
Bob is the subject of this picture. He develops business software for a living. I met when I saw him and his dog by a cross-section. I asked him, "If you had one piece of advice to give to the world, what would it be?" He said, "Do what you love." I shot this picture wide open and tried to get him to look at the camera. Unfortunately, he was quite timid, but I still found his expression looked kind of interesting, almost like he is deep in thought. Do you have any constructive criticism?
Learn more about 100 strangers at:
I saw Birgit when I was thinking about calling it a day and going home. And you don't say no to such an opportunity. So I walked over to her and asked my usual question. She wasn't convinced immediately, but handing her my card and explaining a bit more did the trick :)
The main image is the very first shot that I took. Her eyes were a bit dark (fixed that in post), so after showing it to her, she suggested to move her bangs a bit, which did help.
Birgit was on the way from one work to another where she had an appointment. She asked when the shot will be online which makes her the first to ask this question :)
She liked the first shot more and I agreed, so I put the other one in the comments. Both are really nice images, I think.
Birgit, thanks again! I hope you like the outcome. If you like to have the full-resolution images, please contact me and I will send them to you.
This picture is #28 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 made a Facebook page, so please check it out and like if you like :)
What do you think about the image? Constructive criticism is appreciated!
Tom favourite all time record
Heavan is a Halfpipe
OPM
Pitshanger Lane Ealing London.
Tom was going door to door selling Lovefilm packages. His working day was virtually over and he told me it had been a success. He had done a marketing degree and this job was to add experience for his CV. He was confident and happy to stop for the photographs.
www.flickr.com/groups/100strangers/
© All rights reserved please do not use on any other websites or blogs without my explicit permission.
Howard was driving around the grocery store in one of those electric carts when we briefly spoke. He agreed to have his 100 Strangers portrait taken, and when I showed it to him, he said, "that's my ugly old face." I had to disagree, but he was quickly one his way about to enter a conversation with someone else. I just hope I caught a little of the life in his eyes.
He is my 223rd stranger 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...
Stranger #10 - I met him on pier in Santa Barbara. It was getting dark very quickly and I really wanted to take one more portrait. When I asked he was very surprised (pretty normal reaction :D) but he agreed to have his photo taken. This is one of those stupid shots with subject in rather dark conditions against bright background. I think it went well though :)
This picture is #10 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
Howdy from Eddie my Flickr Stranger #60 in my second set of 100 Strangers who was our
greeter at the Santa Town/Santa Christmas Wonderland hayride that one can take to ride
through all the beautiful Christmas light displays in this amazing land of over a million
Christmas Lights. He has worked here for years and loves his job of welcoming people
to this spectacular destination during the season from the 1st of November through the
end of December. He is married and has children and loves his family and is active at
his church in Snook,TX. From his big smile under his big stetson cowboy hat and bright
magenta Western shirt down to his well enjoyed cowboy boots he was a delight to meet
and visit with as we waited our turn at the hayride that would take us through Santa's
Christmas Wonderland. He and his wife like to do a little country dancing too and he
also shared he is a big A&M University fan!!! Whoop!!!! Thanks so much, Eddie, for being
such a delightful host and making our adventure at Santa's Wonderland even more special!!!
Find out more about the Flickr 100 Stranger project and see pictures
taken by other photographers at: www.flickr.com/groups/100strangers/
Jesse Taylor is today's new Stranger. I meet him as I was taking out my garbage. He was headfirst into the back of his van sorting out some wiring. I noticed the guitar and music gear and stopped for a chat.
Jesse appears to be living the dream... He has taken his love of mosaic and combined it with surfing and manages to keep it all together travelling and singing in his renovated tradies van. Currently he does his gigs, mainly around the Sunshine Coast but nest weekend will find him playing at Byron Bay in between hitting the waves.
Writing most of his own material, Jesse describes his style as Folk but will dabble in other genres such as Jazz and Reggie.
I saw Vernon scratching a lottery ticket and the color of his shirt and hat contrasted nicely against his skin. I had to convince him to let me take his picture, but he was really kind in the end. You look at this shot and can almost hear him saying, "do you really want to take my picture? Don't you have anything else to do?" So I took the shot and told him "man, you look mean!" and he replied, "I'm not mean, let me give you a smile!" which you can see in the comments... Yes, I guess we have the same million-dollar smile... on the inside... and my wife teases me about it, too, Vernon :-) We ended up talking about everything from life to squirrels and had a great time. Thanks a lot, Vernon!
This picture is #24 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
In the course of choosing a local florist and working out the details for a prom corsage, I came to meet this fantastically charming, creative and down to earth mother and daughter.
Will have to add more to this story later, as somehow it is suddenly time to pick up my son from the dance.
Each of 3 times I met with Mari Lynne, she was dressed in similar Boho style. Always a long skirt and funky jewelry. She also was consistent in wearing her engaging smile.
The floral shop (which, according to the business card has been owned by her parents and run by the family for 30 years) is now run adjacent to the family farm. Each time I was there, I also saw her lovely mother, who also smiled readily. Cropped out of the shot is Mari Lynne's young daughter, who happened to be there today.
We chatted at length about all sorts of topics, such as the casual trend of youth, and how flowers aren't wanted as much as they once were (a similar discussion was had while at the salon about older ladies and their Friday hair-dos dying out). She talked about current trends in floral design and has a soft spot for Gerbera daisies (but seemed not to want to say Gerberette, a mini variety)
The story she told that I most want to share is about her parish (I have since found out from a friend who happens to be a member of the congregation, that Mari Lynne is the pastor's wife). Every year they hold a Snowflake Ball. They maintain a lending wardrobe of cast off formal gowns in a "Cinderella's Closet" that the ladies are invited to utilize. I love the idea of an all-ages dance where extravagant (if cheap and or borrowed) gowns are encouraged. It sounds like a bright spot in mid Winter.
Mari Lynne and her mother, Shirley, were certainly a bright spot in the hectic prom-prep season.
10/100 and 11/100
Name: Boon Huan
Place: Resorts World Sentosa Hard Rock Hotel Singapore
He is currently working at The Resorts World Sentosa Hard Rock Hotel as a Guest Relation Officer. This is my first time to totally ask a permission for a stranger to take photo of them which I totally don't know. I was a bit nervous but this is the purpose of this project, to extend from my comfort zone and meet new people using my camera. I ask him about on which hotel is the best in Sentosa and he replied that it depends on which mood that suits me. I ask him if I can take a photo of him and he gladly accepted it, the place is a bit dim so there is a shake on my shot (I was nervous also lol!!!) and we finished with a handshake. It was a fun experience even though I am not sure what questions to ask, on my way to next people I will meet along the way!!! Time for my next journey!!! :D
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
This is a good example of how to do it wrong. I was so flustered by the act of photographing strangers that the neurons in my introverted self just quit firing. I got a great photo of the guy on the bench. :( My brain had a depth of field issue (and I grabbed the wrong camera).
Frances was a good sport and if she sees this, I'm sorry I ruined the photo. Perhaps we'll meet again when my neurons are firing. This is a learning project. At least I just confirmed that I have plenty of room for improvement. See more at the 100 Strangers Project here: www.flickr.com/groups/100strangers/ Thanks for looking.
Back in Seattle, Amber is a life coach. I told her of Erwin who had become a life coach after tragedy had struck in his life. Amber said that it had been difficulties in her own life that had influenced her decision too.
Amber enjoys graphic design and so does her husband. I think that she said he designs things such as logos for football clubs.
When I was photographing Amber, she had this big smile all the time. I wondered if I might get a different expression if I used a tip that Poupetta once suggested to me. So I asked Amber to take a deep breath and think about her husband.
She did this then she smiled again. She said that her husband is the funniest man. He makes her laugh all the time; as much today as when they were married eight years ago. This made me smile.
Thank you Amber for agreeing to be in my project. It was good to meet you. Best wishes for the rest of your holiday.
You can view more portraits and stories by visiting The Human Family
A visit to Nottingham’s annual Riverside Festival gave me plenty of opportunity to add to my stranger project. There must have been thousands of people enjoying the attractions giving me an almost endless supply of strangers to ask. The biggest problem was finding uncluttered backgrounds.
Spotting three girls sitting by an old bridge I decided to ask if any of them would be willing to let me photograph them for the project. Two of them quickly nominated the third, Merle.
I photographed Merle under an arch of the bridge, needing to get her out of the harsh, early afternoon sun. Moving under the bridge gave me a beautiful soft light to work with which stopped the highlights burning out as they did in a couple of other pictures I took of Merle in the direct sunlight.
Merle has lived in Nottingham for ten years, originally coming from Estonia. She hopes to settle here for ever as she feels Nottingham is now her home. She works as a project manager for a company of software developers.
Thank-you so much Merle for allowing your sister and friend to volunteer you for my project and I hope you like your portrait.
This picture is #047 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 my 018 submission to the Human Family Group. To view more street portraits and stories visit www.flickr.com/groups/thehumanfamily/
This picture is #86 in my 100 strangers project. See my other stranger portraits at "100 Strangers Album and find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
Olivia's friend laughed when I asked if I could take either one of their portraits for this project saying that he might break the lens with his looks. He quickly stepped to one side and Olivia kindly agreed to take part. Olivia mentioned that she lives local to the area we met in, Peterborough.
If you are reading this Olivia 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.
Katherine was smiling when I saw her in the queue in the charity shop. After I left the shop, I looked back through the window to see her having what looked like a happy conversation with the staff at the counter.
I sat down on the wall outside the shop and waited for her to come out. Perhaps she would like to be in my ongoing strangers project. She walked in my direction and I almost let her keep going but at the last minute I made my decision.... “Excuse me.... would it be alright for me to take your photograph....”
Katherine agreed and I told her a little of my project, handing her my card. She recognised two of my former strangers, Lizzie and Esther. I asked if we might walk a little further along the high street and we stopped at the wall where I photographed Celeste.
Katherine is a mum and an artist. I asked if she paints and she told me that she does performance art. Although Katherine is creative, she didn't find it easy being photographed. She said that she prefers to be in charge. Katherine was still willing to take part but was relieved when I said that if we met again, then I wouldn't ask for her photo again – she smiled.
Thank you Katherine, for letting me photograph you today. I hope that you like the result. Best wishes.
You can view more portraits and stories by visiting The Human Family
This is my 28th submission to the Human Family group.
Today, I wanted to get some new pictures for the project and also hand out my new moo cards that I made (for about the fifth of the price that they cost online). So I headed out, even though it was already quite late and not much sun left.
I was waiting somewhere in the crowded city center when I noticed something blue coming closer from my side.
Meet Martin. He was practically walking right towards me. I made a step and asked him if he would like to participate in my little photography project to which he instantly agreed.
After taking the first shot (the one in the comments), I wanted to try to get him to laugh but without saying "smile". I have read from a lot of you that your strangers start to laugh when you tell them to look very sincere or not to smile. So I told him to look really angry which he did quite well, but the expression is a bit too exaggerated, so I decided not to include this one.
I started laughing about the expression on his face which luckily made him laugh as well and that is the image you can see above. I am not sure which one is the better one after all, but in the end went with the happy one as the main shot since I accomplished to make him laugh.
I bluntly asked Martin what made him dye his hair blue and he replied that he had three weeks off from work and just felt like doing it without any specific reason. I also wanted to know if a lot of people asked him about it. Apparently people normally wouldn't walk up to him and ask directly, but rather talk "secretly" ("Look! Blue hair!!"). Many kids would be excited and would like it though. When I thanked him, he shook my hand.
Martin, thanks again for your time and willingness to look angry for me :) If you'd like to have the full files, just write me an email and I'll send them to you. I hope you like them!
This picture is #20 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 made a Facebook page, so please check it out and like if you like :)
What do you think about the image? Constructive criticism is appreciated!
This picture is #39 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
My second American for the day. Alexa was walking with an older gentleman who I took to be her father. I've been trying a slightly different approach by asking more directly "May I take a portrait of you for my project?". The theory is that they will then ask what the project is rather than say no. That gives me a chance to give my pitch. Well Alexa didn't get that far, she simply said sure. She seemed to be in a hurry to catch up to her companion so I really had to hurry to get the shot and didn't chat much but she's at the University, Birckenbeck that I was near.
Anyway, thanks Alexa for allowing me opportunity. I fell into the old trap of capturing my reflection in her sunglasses but I'll live with that because I love the colour of her hat and as you can see, she's a stunner.
Exif data auto added by theGOOD Uploadr
File Size : 4.1 mb
Camera Make : NIKON CORPORATION
Camera Model : NIKON D3000
Software : Adobe Photoshop CS5 Windows
Exposure : 0.005 seconds
Aperture : f/1.4
ISO Speed : 100
Focal Length : 50 mm
Subject Distance : 0.8 meters
After my so particular stranger #57, I notice a couple walking in Trafalgar square. They were very cute, with their berets :) I start to talk about the project:
"Hello, I'm a french photographer, working on a project..."
"Wait, wait, we are French too :)"
So I continue to explain the project in French. I noticed later that there was a lot of French people in Trafalgar Square.
They both agreed for a picture. It was a very sympathic and smily couple. I have start by the guy.
He was the 58th stranger in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at www.100strangers.com/