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This picture is #23 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at www.100Strangers.com
I don't know his name but when I signaled for a photograph he gave me the thumbs up. He was an official of sorts at the Bondi Boost Surf Carnival.
He fits the cliche of a surfer more than anyone I saw that day. Relaxed and with features chiseled by the sun. I'm sure he could share an interesting story or two over a beer.
This was my second portrait from near Orchard Road in Singapore but I had found this background the day before. The next day I went back to the area and decided to look around for a suitable stranger when I saw Lisa and Chloe sitting at an outdoor bar nearby.
Chloe was wearing an orange top which I knew was just not going to work with the background but I thought Lisa's dark hair would be perfect.
So I approached them at the bar (as you do) to see if Lisa was game. I think they were hesitant at first but I explained the project and also showed them my portrait of Paldan (Click here). As a result, Lisa agreed to the portrait and I took her to my backdrop of choice.
I actually took my time a little bit more on this one and tried a few shots from both sides to see where the light was better and once I was happy I took a few more.
Once I was done, we went back to the bar and Chloe invited me to join them for a drink. It turns out that they both came to Singapore from the UK and were teaching out there, although Chloe had moved onto Tea sales. Chloe was from Chester and Lisa from East London. We had a lovely chat over beer finding out about a mutual love of carrot and red velvet cakes.
It was lovely to meet such friendly and engaging people and I really enjoyed making this portrait. Thank you Lisa (and Chloe) for being my 65th stranger. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the
100 Strangers Flickr Group Page
Connect with me on my facebook page: Shooting the Streets
As always any critique welcome.
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
It was a pleasant day, and I didn't really have a location in mind for today's portrait. Usually, I decide beforehand where to hang out or which route to take through the city, but today I was just enjoying the warm weather and wandering aimlessly.
I came upon Ricoh after some time. He had a look which I haven't managed to capture before. A look which is more akin to a muslim perhaps, but there is a growing trend of facial hair in men and he was anything but.
Ricoh is the manager at one of the bars in town (Jake's Bar) and is moving to London soon to persure some other opportunities. I wish him all the best for the future.
Enjoy the rest of your weekend everyone! :)
This picture is #078 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/
Hasselblad 2000FCW
80mm Planar
Fuji Acros 100
Rodinal 1+50
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.
Ian was walking with his significant other, Dimity (#21) around downtown Littleton. I had not had much luck so far finding strangers to photograph, but when I saw this very attractive couple, I thought "these are my strangers!". Then I tripped over my words when asking if they'd take part. Duh.
Ian seemed a bit wary about the whole thing, but then popped out in this great smile when he posed. When I snapped the shot, he (or was it Dimity?) said, "whoa that was quick". Basically, I don't fool around -- as soon as the subject snaps into (manual) focus, I take the shot if it feels right.
Technical notes: For some reason this negative was very challenged. I rescued it digitally, for the most part, but it had significant signs of light leakage, and the majority of the image was fogged/flared. You can also see light leakage in the black film rebate areas. Oddly, there is a strip of properly-exposed negative on the right-hand 1/10 of the negative (look at his coat sleeve). On top of all that, the left-hand-side has some weird sort of "wet mark" that I can't account for. I've never had that on a negative before, and it doesn't show up on any of the other negs from this roll.
I was shooting with my Hasselblad 2000FCW, which uses an in-body focal plane shutter vs an in-lens shutter. The shutter curtains are wrinkled a bit. I have replaced the light seals in my backs, but my guess is the shutter is letting a bit of light in somehow, or my light seal replacement is bad. I had the dark slide out while talking to Ian and Dimity, and the camera was in full sunlight for a while before I took Ian's picture. I think that accounts for the issues with this negative and the relative perfection of Dimity's negative (which was wound on and shot immediately).
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
Stranger #9 - 100 Strangers
Grant,
I met Grant while he was walking by and he smiled at me and said hi. So I felt like he might agree to be my stranger.
Grant is Junior student and major in Electrical and Math who obviously a smart man.
I asked what will he suggest to his young self. He said took College more seriously, it would be much harder than high school.
Thank you Grant!
Strobist: Godox AD200 Grided camera right
Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
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 Westy.
My first stranger for the 100 Strangers group.
My Moo MiniCards had arrived and I had my camera in my bag. Nothing was stopping me approaching a stranger but my own nervousness. I saw Westy with his camera and simply walked over to him, introduced myself, told him about the project and asked if I could take his photo. It was as easy as that.
On the day I met him he was working for The Oxford Times, taking photos of 'historic Bicester'. Very interested in my project, he emailed me a couple of hours later and attached the photo he'd taken of me photographing him.
What a lovely man.
And a fact about Westy? His favourite film is The Cement Garden. He's planning on reading the book soon.
This picture is #1 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
Taken in Bicester, UK on 01/03/2012
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.
This girl has both beauty and brains! I met Deepa when she visited Australia for her SCU graduation ceremony. She's just completed her MBA and she's not even 30.
Thanks Deepa - it was awesome to meet you.
This picture is #13 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 #96 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
Walking down King Street I found a spot where a park ran off at 90 degrees from the main road with trees on either side. I thought this would make a decent backdrop so I waited for a suitable stranger to happen by.
I was looking up and down the road when I spotted the Grim Reaper floating by. Inside the hood was Linshu who had the most wonderful bright red lipstick and funky glasses, both attributes that get my attention so I gave her the pitch. She was up for it. I took two pictures and after the second one knew I had enough. Linshu told me that her boyfriend is a professional photographer which probably accounts for why she was so natural in front of a camera. No pressure for me though!
That coat looked like the cosiest place on the street and Linshu was quite concerned that I looked too cold. Well one has to suffer for one's art and, though I was cold, it was well worth it. I'm warm now and I still have the pictures.
Anyway, I hope you take a look at this and I hope you like it, thanks so much for being a part of my 100 Strangers Project!
Chris was sitting on a park bench in Austin, Texas, waiting for the start of a C-SPAN talk during the Texas Book Festival. He said he started growing his beard 15 years ago when he realized his job at a call center meant there were no restrictions on his appearance. His next plan is to start waxing his mustache.
He is my 234th portrait in the Flickr challenge to shoot photos of 100 strangers: www.flickr.com/groups/100strangers/. I'm going veeerrryy slowly this third round, and I'm behind posting some pix.
You can see my full set of Stranger photos (so far) here: www.flickr.com/photos/joemoconnell/sets/72157627547511612...
Meet Pebbles. I met her one sunny December afternoon as I was eating lunch at Pluto's in the Davis Commons in the city of Davis.
As I was finishing my lunch I noticed Pebbles sitting a couple of tables down from me. Once my lunch was completed, I introduced myself to Pebbles and struck up a conversation. I learned that Pebbles is a third year student of economics at UCD and her plans are to remain here in the Davis after graduation. At some point during our conversation, I introduced myself and explained to her the photography project that I was undertaking involving me creating the portraits of 100 strangers and asked her if she would allow me to create her portrait. Being the free spirited individual that she is Pebbles was more then glad to assists me.
She allowed me to take several pictures of her as she posed for me. I took a few landscape shot as well as a couple portraits shots, I changed my focal length manually and by foot. I was getting some great shots and I was real pleased with myself. That was until I got home that is. Looking at the shots I took on my monitor it was obvious that something was terribly wrong. All my shots from that day were out of focus, soft, and blurry. After painstaking retracing my shoot and going over my camera with a fine tool comb, I discovered that during my haste to create Pebbles portraits I inadvertently changed the Auto Focus on the camera, causing the camera to focus on anything but my subject. None the less, this picture of Pebbles is the best of the bunch that I was able to salvage. Thank you Pebbles for taking part in my 100 Stranger project.
This picture is #003 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 page
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/
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
Davide is from near Venice in Italy and when I met him was walking through the middle of Edinburgh while on holiday. It was late in the day therefore the light could have been better
If you are reading this Davide 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.
Albert favourite all time record
"something loud" Jerusalem
Banim Street Hammersmith London.
Saw Albert from behind and quite a distance away but I just knew he would be great to photograph. He didn't say much and I must admit I prompted him a little with the musical choice. It was a cold day and he didn't want to be hanging around and I couldn't blame him for that.
www.flickr.com/groups/100strangers/
© All rights reserved please do not use on any other websites or blogs without my explicit permission.
Wandering round a park in Nottinghamshire, I spotted a young lady taking photos of a young man. The path I was on took me on a route that would pass very close to them. When I was next to them, I pointed my camera at the young man and he grinned, so I stopped and asked if they were taking photos just for fun. They said yes, but Reece added that he would like to be a model, so he was hoping they’d get some images he could use in his portfolio. They asked what I was photographing, so I told them about my stranger project and asked Reece if he’d like to be part of it.
A nearby tree allowed me to position Reece out of the direct sunlight. I also liked how some of the bark had similar tones to Reece’s hair colour. Reece was obviously very comfortable in front of the camera so taking his portrait couldn’t have been easier.
Reece is a student, and he is studying product design, history and politics. He told me he would like a career in politics.
Reece enjoys cooking and he specializes in Italian dishes. His friend, Sofia, said he was very good at it.
I asked Reece what his biggest strength was and he said, “making speeches.”
What single word would Reece use to describe himself? “Adventurous,” he said. I then asked Sofia what word she’d use to describe Reece and she said, “lively.”
If I could grant Reece a wish, he said it would be for a round the world plane ticket.
Thank-you Reece for saying yes to being part of my stranger project. I hope you like your portrait.
This picture is number 394 in my 100 Strangers project, yes, I’ve decided to do a fourth round. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
This is my 365th submission to the Human Family Group. To view more street portraits and stories visit www.flickr.com/groups/thehumanfamily/
100 Strangers
This is Leanne. As with all(4)of my Strangers from the Genesee Country Village and Museum Civil War Re-enactment Weekend, Leanne has been a re-enactor for many years. She told me both she and her husband participate in re-enactments and most of their weekends are taken with this hobby. It was a pleasure meeting Leanne and chatting about the Re-enactment weekend at Genesee Country Village and Museum. Thanks Leanne! Please look at more Strangers at: www.flickr.com/photos/100strangers
I was very impatient to introduce you Momo, my wonderful stranger #9 !
Momo was walking on St-Laurent with his girlfriend when he caught my attention. I was behind him and the first thing I noticed was his red glasses which were coordinated with his Dr. Martens.
He walked with determination and all that I've had time to tell me before he disappeared was that he would have made an interesting stranger.
A few minutes later, when I was stopped in front of a musical instruments store, I saw him inside. It was my chance !
Once inside the small store, I went to introduce myself to Momo by explaining him the project. When his girlfriend, Crila, heard me ask him if he would agree to pose for me, she immediately exclaimed how cool it was ! Her eyes were filled with admiration for her man.
Seconds later, we were outside for some shots.
On the first two shots, Momo was leaning against a wall making me a peace sign with his fingers. As he was a bit too much in the shade, Crila (who is a professional photographer) suggested him another location, which gave the result above.
I am extremely happy with this picture and I think it represents well the energy surrounding Momo.
It’s certainly one of my favorites so far.
What I did not know when I met Momo is that he is also known as the internet's rock and roll kick-ass motivator.
I invite you to visit his website and to follow him on YouTube. He’s a really cool guy!
Thank you so much, Momo, for being part of my project. What a blessing to meet people of an infinite generosity, as you and your lovely Crila. Your photo will be for me a source of motivation for the rest of my challenge.
This picture is #9 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.
For all strangers unfamiliar with flickr: You can easily see yourself and all my other strangers in my 100 Strangers set.
“Where did you get them trousers?”
“Jean Rogerson”
“Sorry, where?”
“Jean Rogerson. It’s a swimwear store, it’s not there now. I got them about 15 years ago”
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This is Sharon, and I loved her style. Notice the trousers (from Jean Rogerson of course), fur coat, slippers and watch :)
This picture is #033 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 #13 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
Anna was waiting outside Kings Cross station under the canopy waiting for the rain to stop. 13 is unlucky for some but I could not have wished for a more friendly stranger who was more than happy to take part in my project.
If you are reading this Anna, 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.
This picture is #91 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
The light was beginning to fade in Covent Garden so Peter and I walked off down the nearby streets looking for light and interesting strangers.
When I spotted Alice walking along with what appeared to be her BF, I immediately stopped to ask her for a picture.
Here we have someone who doesn't like having her photo taken, she not only said "Oh noooooo" but actually fled a few paces. Her 'might be BF' immediately started telling her that she should go for it, and then Peter came in from the other side and started telling her what a great picture she'd get out of it. Well she couldn't hold out against that kind of pressure so I quickly directed her to where I wanted her and snapped off 3 shots, this is the one I liked best. There wasn't much of a background to work with so I went for a tight crop which appears to be the general direction that I was on that day. No doubt having use of the nifty fifty lense had some influence.
Well Alice, you got my last moo card so I hope you do stop by and I hope you like the picture. If you don't, email me for a copy anyway as your friend will no doubt love a copy and let's face it, I owe him for persuading you to agree to it! Thanks Alice, BF and Peter. It took a bit of team work but between the 4 of us we got a lovely picture of you! :-)
Actually there is something about the composition of this picture that I'm not that happy about, can anyone tell what it is?
14 / 100 : Naturals in Rome.
Sunday Afternoon. An important soccer match (Italy - Spain) that gets broadcasted on huge screen in a wonderful outdoor club, in the middle of a garden, with a Vintage Market event going on.
Seriously, could you ask for a better spot for shooting portraits? Nah, believe me, you can't.
And the fact that, despots being an Italian, i really can't stand soccer as a sport really works to my advantage here! I had a wonderful day strolling around the Vintage Market crowded with interesting people and even more interesting items!
While my friends got mad because it was way to packed in front of the screens to actually be able to see the match, not to mention that the crowd produced a lava-like temperature, i took the chance to take my time really finding out who i wanted to take a portrait of, trying for once to concentrate just on quality, not on quantity.
Still ended up with 9 good ones in my camera, but hey, this time i can say i had reasons to photograph every single one of them.
This guy was on my list from the get go. As soon as i saw him, i knew that i HAD to take his picture.
Something about the way he was walking, behaving, talking with his friend really got me interested. But somehow, i was losing track of him every now and then so it took me a while.
He was wondering around with his friend and a Nikon Film camera with a 50mm lens. I thought him being a photographer or a photo enthusiast may have helped and in fact, it did!
When i approached and asked him if i could take his photo, he gladly agreed and posed straight away.
When i saw the photo on the back of my camera, i realized how natural he was in being in front of a camera. Great stuff!
Thanks, stranger!
As usual, i'm posting some Extras on my Facebook page HERE so go and check them out!
[This picture is #14 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 ]
Camera Info: Nikon D700 | 85mm (ƒ/1.8D) @ 85mm | ƒ/2.8 | ISO 280 | 1/180 s — Camera Handheld
Natalie, Roberto, Nicole enjoying each others company. These three friends were at the pool at the Venetian Casino in Las Vegas, NV. They had made their way to Vegas from San Francisco, CA.
Although, I've been thinking about starting my own "100 Strangers", I had not started until my wife and I were on this trip. I saw Natalie, Roberto, and Nicole pose this way for another one of their friends. I asked them if they would be part of my "100 Strangers". Thanks you guys...you were #1 of 100!
I saw Madeleine in the health food shop in Glastonbury. When she came out of the shop I asked her the question. She wondered why I wanted to take her picture and I told her about the strangers project and gave her my card. She asked me if I was an artist and I said that I was an amateur photographer, someone that take photos for pleasure and that I find it a good way to meet people.
Madeleine agreed then she asked me how I chose who to photograph. I told Madeleine that I pick attractive or interesting faces. Now that I am writing this up.. I think that I have a tendency to ask people that look approachable (and have an attractive and/or interesting look or accessory).
She put her shopping in the basket of her bicycle and we crossed the street where there was a bit of shade. It has been the hottest day so far this year in Glastonbury. My card has a few of my strangers on it and Madeleine liked the one of Daja. I told Madeleine that I had started the project in Boston and she could see how I might find it easier to begin by approaching people so many thousands of miles from home – don’t have to worry about bumping into them again.
Madeleine asked me if people ever say no when I ask if I can take their photo and I said about one in five. I mentioned that I read of someone who had got 4 refusals in a row. Madeleine suggested that people in Glastonbury are quite open about things. I agreed but I have just remembered that there were 2 young ladies in the town that said no.
Madeleine is an artist and is toying with the idea of university. She likes to paint people and mostly uses acrylics. Using acrylics is handy because Madeleine has a 4 year old daughter and with acrylics you don’t need nasty chemicals to clean your brushes. Madeleine also enjoys writing, she is writing and illustrating a book – the main character is a cat.
Madeleine loves her new bike. It was a present from her Mum. She loves to cycle on the levels (beautiful countryside). Her Mum would like Madeleine to wear a helmet and fluorescent clothing, like she does. Evidently her mum looks like a bug when she is on her bike - with her bright clothing and helmet. Madeleine prefers to look more stylish, like a Parisian lady out for a leisurely ride.
Madeleine also enjoys Zumba and was going to a class in Godney this afternoon. To earn some money she does some modelling and cleaning but would like not to have to do the cleaning.
Thank you Madeleine for being my stranger number 32 – it was good to meet you. Just after leaving you I remembered that I had taken a photo of someone else with a young child who is starting university shortly. Jaz, stranger 26, is going to do a languages degree with the Open University. I wonder if an OU degree might suit you too? I wish you well with your book and other art.
This picture is #032 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 was back in Philadelphia, and this time I was meeting up with another photographer who was interested in trying the 100 Strangers Project. He suggested Rittenhouse Square near downtown. As I neared the destination, I could tell that this would be a good area for finding strangers as the streets were brimming with a virtual cornucopia of potential models. I even spotted what would become Stranger #57 walking down the street with a fellow monk, but at that point I was more interested in finding a spot to park.
I eventually met up with my friend, and I immediately started commenting how excited I was to see such fertile stranger territory. I even mentioned to him that I had seen a couple of Buddhist monks a few blocks back. Lo and behold, about a minute later I spotted them again strolling across the square. I sprang into action….it was show time.
We caught up to the pair, and I began my rap. It quickly became obvious that the gentleman I was interested in did not speak any English, and his companion only had a limited grasp of the language. We were able to determine that they were from Laos, but my desire to take a portrait was not being communicated. Our encounter was beginning to break down, and the companion politely began to wave us off. I usually accept rejections at face value, but in this case I felt there was simply a lack of understanding.... a different approach was required.
I took a deep breath, and I turned toward the gentleman I desired to photograph. I smiled and did my best to convey a sense of peace and serenity. I calmly pointed to my camera and then gestured toward him. I then asked the companion how I would say ‘thank you’ in his language. He stated “Khaup Jai”. I repeated the phrase and finally cupped my hands together and respectfully bowed toward my stranger. At that point a he flashed a slight smile, straightened his posture, and subtly shifted his shoulders back. I had my pose. I quickly took a couple of shots. I didn’t think any other direction or shifting for background was going to be possible, but I was thrilled to have captured the shot that I did.
Before we parted ways I asked him what his name was (interpreted through his companion). He responded (I think it was the only word he said), but it was so foreign to my ears that even if my memory was perfect, I would still probably butcher the spelling, so Stranger 57 will remain nameless. I thanked him again, and we went our separate ways.
For all of you that have checked out my portrait and story, I simply say ‘Khaup Jai’.
Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page.
09 / 100 : "I'm not photogenic at all"
Now seriously, that was what he said to me when i asked him if i could take his picture for my project... Seeing the results, would you guys believe him!?
I'm back for a week in my beloved Venice, i came back to say hello to some good ol' friends and to have an interview with a photographer looking for an assistant.
Being back in Venice restored me completely, it's amazing how good I feel whenever i'm in this city!
So i took a long walk yesterday looking for faces and i goat say, i found a whole bunch of interesting people!
Back to the photo, i met this guy in one of the student's favorite spots, Campo Santa Margherita.
I was drinking a Spritz ( shame on you if you have no idea what it is) with some friends and i noticed him and his friends at the table next to ours: i wanted to ask him straight away but since i didn't want to jump in the conversation and interrupt them, i patiently waited until they were about to leave to ask him.
He was a bit shy, apparently, at the beginning but as soon as i pointed the camera at him he gave me this great pose. Click.
Thanks a lot!
[This picture is #09 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 ]
Camera Info: Nikon D300 | 85mm (ƒ/1.8D) @ 85mm | ƒ/2.8 | ISO 400 | 1/125 s — Camera Handheld
The last week of June this year brought a lot of heat to the Sacramento area, and the 4th of July weekend was at triple digits - that's 100+ Fahrenheit, for those of you who are non-U.S. residents (quick trivia - I just found out just now that it's only the country of the United States and Belize that still uses the Fahrenheit scale). I was trying to get caught up with editing my swim shoot photos, but with the AC broken at our house, there was no way I was going to stay at home and melt!
So i went to the nearest neighborhood Starbucks, and got me some vanilla latte to cool me down, and spent the rest of the afternoon and evening there editing. It was surprisingly, as i found out, a pleasure to sit there for hours on end, listening to Pandora, and working on my laptop while i occasionally watch the people that came in and out of the coffeeshop.
MJ was working that day, and I asked to take his photo, explaining to him about the 100 Strangers project. He was cool enough to agree to be in front of my camera, but he had to bust a few laughs as his co-workers teased him about being like a celebrity.
MJ works full time at Starbucks now that summer is here and school is out. When school resumes this fall, he goes to Sac State and studies Business Administration.
I gave him the link to my flickr afterwards, and i told him that he should check it out because i have a few models here on my stream. I saw how his whole face lit up as he said "Really?? Do you think you can give me their numbers???", with a big smile on his face.
MJ is my 27th stranger for the 100 Strangers Project.
See the rest of my "strangers" here.
See the 100 Strangers Group here on Flickr
Or checkout: www.100strangers.com
Meet Kim. Our paths crossed a day after Christmas when my family and apparently hers were enjoying a beautiful Northern California sunshine day at Six Flag's Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo Ca.
As my family and I was walking through the park we noticed this lady wearing a white tiger hat sitting on a bench. It wasn't the hat that caught my attention, but her strength and beauty, for they were shining as warm and bright as the noon day sun, but with my camera in hand, I kept on walking because the Tiger Show was about to begin and I didn't want to miss it. However, after a few moments I realized what an opportunity I was passing up by not asking her to take part in my 100 Stranger Project and I just couldn't do it. So, I asked my wife if it would be ok if I go back to see if I could create a portrait of the lady wearing the white tiger hat, while she and the kids grab our seats for the Tiger Show. She said yes and I turned around and headed back to the bench where the lady wearing the white tiger hat was sitting. As I approached, it looked like she was getting up to leave and I thought to myself 'Man I missed my chance', but I dove right in and introduced myself and my project and asked if she would allow me to create her portrait. To my surprise she granted my request and I took a few pictures of her.
I learned her name was Kim and she and her family were up from the Los Angeles area enjoying the park and all of its attractions. I handed Kim my card and told her that if she liked, she could get a copy of her portrait from my site listed below, as a token of my appreciation for her taking part in my project. Normally that would have been the end of our encounter, but it wasn't. The next morning I received this email from Kim:
Hi. My name is Kim. You photographed me today at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, I was in the white tiger hat. I wanted to thank you. I have been very ill this last year battling Lupus and I just recently lost my hair. I have a wig, and I was sad that I was not going to be able to ride anything with my kids because I didn't want it to fall off. My children (I have 5 ranging from 8-17) and my husband convinced me not to wear it and to just wear a scarf because they wanted me to have fun. It was very sweet of them. Today was my first day going anywhere in public with no hair. I was embarrassed and had no confidence. Then I saw that hat and it made me laugh, so I bought it and threw it on and didn't give my hair a second thought. I had an amazing day with my kids and actually got to focus on something besides being sick. Thank you for noticing me and taking my picture. It made me proud and I felt strong and comfortable in my skin just the way I am. I hope your project goes well. Just wanted to share my story with you
I emailed Kim back and requested permission to share her story with all of you, which she also granted. This encounter is a perfect example of how noticing someone and paying them a little attention could make their day. I was hesitant to ask Kim for her portrait. In fact, I passed right by her knowing that it was an opportunity being missed, and I turned around and dove in, not knowing that my request for her portrait would have such a positive impact on her. Her response has had an impact on me and my family as well.
Thank you Kim for taking part in my 100 Strangers Project.
This picture is #006 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 page
Wandering around the Ay-Up Market in Nottingham’s Old Market Square gave me so many options in who to approach to see if they’d be willing to be photographed for my stranger project. There were entertainers, stall holders, and visitors to chose from. Passing a bright blue gazebo I saw Rebekah, her attire contrasting so well with the backlit wall of her stall, so I had to go over and ask if I could photograph her.
The light inside the gazebo was soft and the backlighting caused the blue to appear very bright compared to the light on Rebekah, so I took care with the metering to make sure I didn't overexpose the background and underexpose Rebekah.
Rebekah sells items such as tablecloths and curtains made from vintage, pe-loved fabrics. She’s been doing this for six years. You can find out more here: rebekahpeters.com/ Rebekah told me she also works in a restaurant to make a little extra money.
In her spare time, Rebekah enjoys drinking wine and chilling out. Her main hobby would be entering competitions online and she said her best/strangest win was a year’s supply of fish fingers.
Rebekah’s guilty pleasure is listening to true crime.
What one word would Rebekah use to describe herself? “Happy,” she said.
Thank-you Rebekah for letting me interrupt your day to photograph you for my project. I hope you like your portrait.
This picture is number 354 in my 100 Strangers project, yes, I’ve decided to do a fourth round. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
This is my 325th submission to the Human Family Group. To view more street portraits and stories visit www.flickr.com/groups/thehumanfamily/
This is Michael also know as Waza.
I was in town today working on another project, which involved photographing Melbourne land marks with a long exposure to try and remove both the pedestrian and vehicular traffic from the scene.
Whilst I was waiting for one of my exposures (sixteen minutes) Michael approached me and enquired if I was doing street photography, and offered to pose, if indeed I was.
Not wanting to disappoint, I accepted his kind offer. Michael first adopted a formal pose with his shirt on, he then said "I know, I'll take my top of and give you another pose" (this image).
During our chat Michael revealed that he had only a few days previously been released from a mental health institution, and insisted on showing me his release papers.
He went on to tell me about his troubles with the Police, and also about his family. He also explained that he had avoided getting tattooed on his hands or face in case he needed to conceal them under a shirt, in the event that he ever got an office job.
Michael was more than keen that I put the images on the internet, and in fact almost insisted that I should put them in as many places as I could.
This is the forth 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 #77 in my second 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
See my first set here: Bomvu's 100 Strangers"
Later in the day at the Camden meet up we stopped for a beer at a canal side pub, and then decided for one last session of shooting strangers. The light was getting a little low so the flashes were starting to come out. I decided to try out my on board flash with diffuser for fun.
We were standing on the high street getting our bearings when Emma stopped and asked me the way to the nearest tube station. I told her but as I was still playing with settings didn't think to ask her for a photo till after she'd walked on. Miraculously she didn't get grabbed by any of my compatriots and when I finally made the connection that she'd make a lovely stranger portrait she was not too far down the way.
Emma was visiting from Lancashire and I hope she had a fab time in Camden.
Verdict on the on board flash plus diffuser: I needed to be able to turn down the power more than I can on camera. The diffuser does help a little but there's no hiding from the lack of defined shadows. It changes the light balance so that everything is very yellow so I had to make quite a large adjustment in Camera RAW which is unusual for me. A proper speedlight flash is at the top of my current wish list.
Constructive criticism gratefully received
Meet Hannah. Hannah is a 2nd year Aerospace Engineer studying out of UCD. Hannah has aspirations of someday work for NASA. She wasn't quite sure what she wanted to do exactly after graduation, but she was sure it would be with NASA.
Hannah and I crossed paths one day as I was on camera walk. I introduced myself and told her about my 100 Stranger Project and invited her to partake in my project. She agreed and we were able to create several beautiful portraits together. This one here is one of my favorites. As we were creating the portraits together, I couldn't but notice the way Hannah's eye reflected the light. At some angles her eyes were almost the same color as her hair and in another angle they were a shade of green like that in the back ground. I never got around to ask her what color were her eyes, but it was fascinating to see them change color between shots.
Thank you Hannah for taking part in my 100 Strangers Project.
This picture is #041 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 page