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Stranger #55 / 100 from my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page or my personal blog.
Tyler and Anne
I was hanging in the park trying to muscle up the courage to go to strangers to ask for a photo (some days are easier than others, I don’t know why ;-) until i saw Tyler and Anne. While I was sitting on a park bench, I saw Anne put on an helmet and get on the longboard (skateboard) trying to just practice her balance while Tyler made sure she didn’t “banana-peel-fall”.
They looked like they having fun, so after they started coming back, i approached them. Tyler has been skateboarding for the last 7 years and was showing his friend Anne how to learn it. Although it was her first time Tyler said she looked actually pretty good! Keep it up!
Who puts on a wonderful handmade knitted hat in 95 degrees at a street festival in Austin, Texas, but a lovely lady from Philadelphia Pennsylvania, who knows in a few short weeks, that this headgear will be necessary!
So glad to come across Kelsey and her friends as they were visiting on a vacation. My luck that Kelsey was trying on that knitted hat. Hope she bought it because it looked great on her.
Thanks to Kelsey for allowing me to photograph her for this project! Hope the rest of you and your friends visit to Texas is wonderful.
If you would like to see other photographs of those participating in this project, please visit www.flickr.com/groups/100strangers/
Stranger hunting with my wife has its benefits. Other than spending time together, it provides me with another set of eyes and more importantly those eyes see the world & strangers with a female perspective. So it’s no surprise that my lovely wife spotted this handsome guy sitting alone in a cafe reading a book.
Vincent was a very approachable guy so much so that he invited us to sit with him as I went through my blurb.
Vincent's work is rather interesting as he is a professional percussionist, a music producer and entrepreneur. He has worked with some serious names in the music business such as Santana & has organised and thrown parties for Beyoncé & Justin Timberlake. His company, Latin Jams, provides a vibrant range of entertainment, from niche Djs to drum troupes, dancers & performers, just to name a few. This guy knows how to live life to the fullest! If you’re interested in knowing more he can be found here latinjams.net/bands/vincent_sebastian
The café we were in had this wonderful bright orange wall so I placed him against it and took a few shots. Contrary to my normal “No smile policy” I just couldn’t go past (and my wife insisted) the one of Vincent smiling.
Thanks for being part of the Strangers Project.
This picture is #107 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
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
Somehow I feel like I've known you all my life
And we have been together since the dawn of time and
I've been missing vital pieces of the puzzle
You might be the answer stranger
The Rasmus is just perfect. www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXNjrb6LEXE
Anyways, this is a picture from a few days ago. I'm so slow with uploading. But Marcy is getting lots of spam because her 2nd birthday is coming up. :3
I met Nick while out for a walk today, and he readily agreed to have his picture taken. He also seemed enthusiastic about the project, and was cool with participating. Thanks Nick!
This picture is #4 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
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
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
The encounter with Anaïs was very brief because she was in late for her work. I was walking in the street with a friend when we saw her. I asked him if he wanted to do it, he replied that I should do it so I did it. Anaïs is a professional model so she wasn't afraid to be in front of the camera. She told us about a group of people doing the same project. It's becoming trendy to take pictures of people in the street!
Thank you Anaïs.
This picture is #34 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 am always aware of faces and light since starting this project but I’m not always in that unique state of mind known as “stranger mode.” Reaching out to people you don’t know takes a certain kind of emotional energy and I don’t have my game face on 24/7.
On this particular sunny day I was in bicycling mode and had just completed a nice long ride across Toronto and back, taking parkland for as much of the way as possible. Realizing that I was near Kensington Market, I decided to lock my bike and stroll through Chinatown. I did have my camera with me and when I saw this attractive, stylish woman with her big floppy hat, "bicycle mode" suddenly switched to "stranger mode."
She was exiting a series of racks of clothing which were displayed on the sidewalk in a busy section of Spadina Avenue and I couldn’t resist approaching her and inviting her to join my project. Her response was interest and she listened to my project description with an open smile. She said she loved the concept but was surprised when she realized I meant to do the photos right then. I said “Oh yes, it’s very much a ‘here and now’ project.” She was still game. Meet Deepa.
I posed her among the clothing racks to get us off the busy sidewalk and when she fussed with her purse and a shopping bag I told her not to worry, that it would be a head and shoulders portrait like those on my contact card. After the first click I warned her that I would take a few in order to hedge against focus problems and blinks. She understood and as I clicked, she suddenly varied her expressions and head angle. “Wait a minute” I said. “Are you a model?” She shyly admitted she’s modeled “once or twice.” She was clearly a natural. As we photographed, a pedestrian stopped to gawk in surprise at what was going on and I told him he was witnessing a “fashion shoot.” Deepa laughed.
Photos taken, I asked if Deepa had a couple more minutes to tell me something about herself for the photo story. She agreed and we chatted, surrounded by the sidewalk clothing racks. Deepa is 35 and had been in Canada for 7 years. Before that she spent 8 years in the U.S. She is a recruiter in the Information Technology industry and likes her work because the I.T. field is always changing and she has to be on her toes to keep up with the changes. “I like working in I.T. recruiting because I like people and I like a dynamic environment.”
Of the various places she has lived in the U.S., Chicago is not one of them but she has visited Chicago and loved it. She was interested in what prompted me and my wife to move from Chicago to Toronto and we chatted about that. Outside of work, Deepa told me she likes exploring – both Toronto and the surrounding area. She and her boyfriend enjoy visiting different places whenever their jobs allow it.
On the scale of “buy-in” to the project concept, Deepa scores and easy 10 out of 10. She loved the idea of the project and couldn’t get over what fun it was. She said she wasn’t too shocked by my request because her personal philosophy is to “trust the universe because good things will usually happen – like this!” She went on to say “You have such a great manner and approach that it would be hard not to trust you.” Thank you Deepa. She concluded by saying “I can’t get over what a fun 10 minutes this has been. I can’t wait to look at your project.”
It’s a special treat when someone like Deepa really understands this project and gets such pleasure out of participating. Thank you Deepa for a fun meeting and for your enthusiastic participation. You are #808 in Round 9 of my project.
And with this photo, I complete my set of my 50+1 Strangers!!!! Thanks all of you for commenting my photos!
Follow my 100 Strangers project on: My Website | Twitter | Facebook or view the whole set here on flickr. COMMENTS & FAVOURITES very much appreciated. **No sparkley banners or awards please.
Without further ado I'm going to introduce you to my 27th stranger in a classic Jack Nicholson phrase from the film The Shining... "Heeeeres JOHNNY!!!"
I'd been wandering the streets of Melbourne's CBD searching for a nice backdrop for my next stranger portrait before Johnny and his friend Kenneth stood alongside me at the pedestrian crossing. His glasses and overall style immediately grabbed my attention, so as we crossed the street together I asked if I could photograph him. Without hesitation he agreed and I quickly searched for the nearest clear background and shaded area to take his portrait. The sun was quite harsh at the time, but luckily for a brief minute or two a big cloud rolled on by in-front of the sun, providing us with mother natures version of a softbox while I snapped away.
Johnny is a Hair Stylist from Hong Kong and was on an extended holiday in Australia with his friend Kenneth. As Johnny did not speak too much English, Kenneth became the translator and we were having a three-way conversation whilst I tried to get some details about himself. They have travelled to Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne so far, with Melbournes art's culture and more relaxed vibe making it their favourite destination so far.
Kenneth also revealed that Johnny is always being asked to be photographed as he is generally dressed in something far more extravagant than he was wearing on this day. Even without trying to be stylish it seems Johnny cant escape the photographers :)
So thank you Johnny and Kenneth for being apart of the project, I hope this moment will be an extra memory you both can keep from your visit to Australia.
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This picture is #27 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at www.100strangers.com/ or the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
Round two of my 100 Stranger Project:
I was in Munich, it was already dark and I wanted just to go on the way to my hotel, when I spotted a young woman waiting at the Marienplatz in Munich. The colorful scarf and her blond hair shone despite darkness. So I spoke to her.
I briefly introduced myself and the project. It was enough to convince the young woman to help me with my project. I conducted her even to my "shop window position" because the illumination of the window produced a nice atmospheric light.
So here I made the acquaintance of Weena. She lives in Munich and is training for tourism businesswoman. Of course I had to ask for the unusual first name. Weena is the girl of the year 802,701 in the science fiction novel "Time Machine" by H.G. Wells. Her parents had probably a faible for the character in the book and film, thus the name.
Weena (dating from 2015) would take to a lonely island, a knife, a friend with a guitar and a rope.
Meanwhile, the friends of Weena reached us, so that I could ask any more questions. Therefore I said goodby and I thanked Weena. Hopefully you have had still a nice evening with your friends. I wish you well and hope you never get stress with any Morlocks. Thank you very much, Weena.
This picture is #6 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:
Ich war in München, es war schon dunkel und ich wollte mich schon auf den Weg zu meinem Hotel begeben, als ich eine junge Frau wartend auf dem Marienplatz beobachtet. Der bunte Schal und ihre blonden Haare leuchteten trotz Dunkelheit. Also sprach ich sie an.
Kurz stellte ich mich und das Projekt vor. Es genügte um die junge Frau zu überzeugen, mir bei meinem Projekt zu helfen. Ich dirigierte Sie noch zu meiner „Schaufensterposition“, weil die Beleuchtung der Auslage ein schönes stimmungsvolles Licht erzeugte.
Hier machte ich also die Bekanntschaft von Weena. Sie lebt in München und macht eine Ausbildung zur Tourismuskauffrau. Natürlich musste ich nach dem ungewöhnlichen Vornahmen fragen. Weena ist das Mädchen aus dem Jahr 802.701 in dem Sience Fiction Roman „Time Machine“ von H.G. Wells. Ihre Eltern hatten wohl ein Faible für die Figur in dem Buch bzw. Film, daher der Name.
Weena (aus dem Jahr 2015) würde auf eine einsame Insel ein Messer, einen Freund mit Gitarre und ein Seil mitnehmen.
Inzwischen stoßen die Freunde von Weena zu uns, so dass ich keine weiteren Fragen stellen konnte. Daher verabschiedete und bedankte ich mich. Hoffentlich hattest du noch einen netten Abend mit deinen Freunden. Ich wünsche dir alles Gute und hoffe, dass du nie Stress mit irgendwelchen Morlocks bekommst. Danke Weena.
Dies ist Bild #6 meines „100 Strangers-Projektes“ –Runde 2-. Mehr zu dem Projekt und Fotos anderer Fotografen auf der Gruppenseite 100 Strangers Flickr Group page.
Meine ersten 100 Fremden findest du hier:
While waiting for Evan to arrive at The Hub, I spotted a dark haired girl dressed in purple looking at stuff for sale at the stalls that are set up each weekend. I made my approach and Nicole seemed interested in the project.
Just as we were about to head over to a shaded spot Evan turned up right on cue. His timing was perfect as I needed his help to be my human light stand for my first attempt at off camera flash. Evan held the flash, set to manual using radio triggers, to camera left, slightly above head height.
The end results were mixed and I have to admit it was harder to do than I thought. I’ve posted what I think is the best shot out of a few but I still think the light is a bit harsh. Luckily for me Nicole was very patient while we experimented with different flash settings.
Nicole works for a film distribution company and quite likes her job. She is also an aspiring harmonica player. When I asked her what else she did with her spare time she casually mentioned that she also hosts a radio program on Eastside FM Radio station where she play a variety of a blues music. Nicole is one busy girl!
I really liked her relaxed and friendly nature, but it was Nicole’s dark features that made me think she would make a good addition to the project and as she walked away I realised I had forgotten to ask about her heritage. So if you read this Nicole perhaps you could provide that missing bit of information.
Thanks for being part of the 100 Strangers Project.
This picture is #180 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
Nick and I shared an amicable chat about the plight of independent business in Canada's largest city. The neighbourhood has changed all around. Money consortiums are buying up whole blocks, and guys like Nick - enjoying the morning sun while waiting for a prospective tenant to arrive.... well they end up in the shadows.
Nick is an accountant by trade - and he is helping his parents keep their building occupied. He's a good son, and a nice guy. Thanks Nick.
Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
Meet Eugene. Eugene retired from the US Army 40 years ago where was a paratrooper. He served in WWII and Korea. He was almost killed by artillery in his first few days of Korea. Eugene says he jumped out of perfectly good airplanes, "not because I wanted to, but for the extra $150".
Eugene is pointing to his Kokopeli shirt and wants people to remember that Kokopeli will help your love life. Around his neck he wears his wedding band, his wife's wedding band, an elk ivory and a "sex stone". The official term for the sex stone is AFR. AFR stands for "another fucking rock".
"This picture is #3 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at www.100Strangers.com"
Stranger #28 - Paweł - a very nice guy whom I met in Wroclaw, Poland. I asked for a photo and he agreed immediately, without additional questions. So I took a few shots and then told him about the project. He asked how many pictures I was able to take so far and what's the typical reaction of people when I ask for their portraits.
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
Meet Rose:
Rose was manning the farmers fruit stand on Hwy #8 just East of Beamsville, Ontario. The weather was very brisk - an early cold snap had her wrapped in winter wear to fend off the 2 Celsius temperature. There wasn't much left at the fruit stand. The last of the roots, and paradise pears, and a few squash. After bagging up the pears, and roots my wife and I purchased I asked Rose for a photo, which she first declined. I flashed my nicest smile, mentioned I was from just down the road, and had made many photos of the landscapes and people of the Niagara Region and offered to email her the result. With some reluctance she finally ceded, but warmed up with some cheerful chat about the plight of family farms, and the uncertainty of the coming generations commitment to the business I bid her adieu.
Rose is #18 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 Peter on our meet-up day in February just as Evan, Neil & I had sat down at the café to take a well-earned rest. He darted past in a hurry so I had to chase him down to stop him.
His immediate reaction was “Oh not again, you’re the second person to ask for my photo in the last couple of weeks.” He was pretty reluctant to accept and asked all the usual questions, but in the end he did agree & we took a few quick shots.
I got the feeling that he really liked being photographed and the attention it was bringing from on-lookers in the street. I thought he looked rather dapper with his unusual hat, double glasses & a bit of bling with the gold chain.
Peter asked to look at the shots I had taken and when I showed him he said “how old do you think I am?” and before I could answer he said, “I am 69… not bad for a 69 year old.” To tell you the truth he did look young & fit for his age.
It didn’t surprise me when he said he had mostly worked in hotel management as he was very well-spoken and I could see him fitting in well in that environment.
I have since emailed his portraits for review & he did request this specific photo to be used. Luckily we agreed on that!
So Peter, here it is, finally. Sorry it took so long.
Thanks for being part of my Strangers Project it was fun meeting you.
This picture is #102 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
I love it when strangers are the one who start the conversation. A lady and I were walking in the same direction and she took notice of my camera.
“Is that an EOS?”, she asked.
Instantly, we brewed up a conversation. And not before long, I got to meet her family who was nearby. I learned that Tania is a painter (but currently a fulltime mom) and her husband is a researcher (currently working towards his doctorate). Tania and her family have recently moved to Davis only a year ago. She and her family love it here. We spent a good deal sharing why we love Davis. When it came time to take the photo, I HAD to get the whole family together-- everyone was just too cute.
Natalie (left) was very camera shy. So, I spoke in spanish, asked her name and told her that she was very brave. My spanish must have sounded funny because she giggled and eventually warmed up to me.
After I took their photo, I had one last question for Tania. I asked her if there was anything in her life that she would like prayer for. She didn’t seem surprised at all-- in fact, her smile might have gotten even more... smiley. She took a moment to think. Then she came up with her answer.
“I would like prayer for my family and our future. You know, we love living here in Davis, but we don’t know what’s going to happen-- and our home country is so far away. So, yes, my family and our future.”
I shook my head and understood. I laid my hands on her and prayed for her family. I prayed that God would watch over them and take care of them as he has done so far-- that her family would abound more in love and favor. I thanked God for the opportunity to meet Tania and her family, and that we could share the bit of our lives with each other. When I finished praying, Tania gave me a warm hug. There was something about her face and smile that seemed to melt my heart. The feeling was so gratifying and encouraging-- it made me remember why I do what I do.
Tania, thank you letting me meet you and your family; it was an absolute joy. You have become Stranger #109 in my on-going stranger project.
Check out more of other's stranger photos at www.flickr.com/groups/100strangers
When I gave Isla my card, she asked me “Are you and anthropologist?”. I must have looked puzzled. She then pointed to andrewtheprofessor. No, I said. I owned up to not being a professor at all. More of that below.
I had seen Isla walking in front of me. I turned as I passed and asked if I might take her photograph. Isla agreed and asked me if she was walking in the right direction to get to the High Street. I confirmed that she was and continued to walk with her. I asked what she was doing and she said that she had been thrown out of the Glastonbury Festival and was going to get a lift (I think that her Aunt was picking her up).
Isla was a bit fed up because she really likes music and had been looking forward to enjoying the festival. She had been ejected on the day before any bands get on stage. I said maybe she didn't want me to share that she had been thrown out for not having a ticket. She said go ahead and put in that she was thrown out twice!
Isla is studying antropology at Bristol University and has just completed her first year. She decided on this subject when she realised that the personal statement, that she was preparing for her applications, was a really close match for the subject.
Isla enjoys travel and different cultures. She would like to visit the lands of a the Korowai people. A people who live in trees. She enjoys photography too and would one day like to open a gallery presenting the diversity of cultures. Isla told me that the visual sense is what we consider most highly, perhaps the most 'civilised'. Other cpeoples put more emphisis on different senses, like touch for example.
As we walked to the High Street, I was thinking about possible locations to take a photo and momentarily missed part of what Isla was saying. My bad! Sorry Isla – I should know better. There were some noisy lorries going by too so it wasn't easy. Isla was telling me about an exhibition that had come to the UK which showed photos from other cultures. I didn't catch what it was called and I don't remember where it was.
She said that in one tribe they put newly born babies in the Ocean to give them the sense of movement and touch. I think that there was a picture of this in the exhibition. Laura had wanted to raise some funding to get this show back to the UK but she was not able to because over £20k was needed.
Isla really enjoys cycling too. Her dad is a keen cyclist and he got her interested in it. She asked me if I have a bike and I told her that I did have one. I found it too hard cycling up hill, hardly used it and gave it away.
We stopped briefly to take photos and then walked to the High Street. I wasn't altogether happy with the photos but Isla wanted to look at the shops before being picked up so we said our goodbyes. When Isla was in the shop, I checked the photos more closely and discovered that they were not correctly focussed. This was really strange because all of the photos that I took of Sun, half an hour earlier were fine. When I looked in the shop, Isla had gone.
Fortunately I remembered that Isla had asked me if there was a Co-op supermarket in Glastonbury. I went there and a few minutes later I found Isla coming out. I apologised and asked if I could take a couple more photos. These were rather hurried and Isla looked a bit uncomfortable. In the end I decided to use one of the unsharp photos for my upload. Now I think that I should have found somewhere that we could have sat down for a minute. I would have made a much better portrait of Isla. Nevertheless it was good to meet with Isla to hear of her interests and hopes.
Thank you Isla, for agreeing to be in my project. It was good to meet you. I wish you well for your studies and dreams.
Oh, yes.... “Andrewtheprofessor”: I worked as an assistant gardener as a holiday job. The permanent gardeners had nicknames for everyone, they called me “The Professor”. I am not sure if it was because I was at university, because I wore glasses because I didn't swear or maybe I had an opinion on everthing! When it was time to think of a name for my flickr account, this old nickname came back to me.
This picture is my 206th stranger, 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
Here's a photo taken at my husband's family reunion. My daughter kept telling me I'd find a stranger there, and she was right. :)
This is Stephanie, and she's staying with my brother-in-law while attending University. I saw her at breakfast, and waited my turn to introduce myself and tell her about the project. I overheard her talking about school, so I asked her a bit about that. She has attended several schools to study psychology, and has a plan to get a PhD in the subject. When asked what her studies have revealed about herself, she answered that she can't stay in one place and that it's difficult when perfection is expected.
Stephanie's family is in California, but she fit in well with my brother-in-law's family. You could see that his kids genuinely loved her as they chased her around calling her name and giggling. I think that might be one of them blurred in the background.
I don't think I could have taken a bad shot of Stephanie. I do think it would have been a lot better if I brought my reflector and protected the highlights on her face. My photo does not show how dramatically her blue eyes contrast with her thick, curly black hair, but I think you get an idea. :)
Find out more about the 100 strangers project and see pictures taken by other photographers at www.100Strangers.com
www.flickr.com/groups/100strangers/
Just had to come back and add one more thing... I think I actually find it easier to photograph strangers than I do my in-laws! My in-laws are nice people, too. Strange, huh?
I met Lionello at some friends' place. The conversation was mostly about his start-up and his peculiar moment. In twenty years as a copywriter in the marketing world I rarely sensed a greater passion for an enterprise, coupled with the strongest will to remain faithful to personal ideas and belief. He made me think of someone who would never wear a mask, and that lead to the portrait you can see above.
Wish you the best, Lionello, you deserve it.
This picture is #44 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 had walked up and down Glastonbury high street several times but folk just looked too busy. I decided to try a different tactic and sat down on a bench to watch people walking up and down. Still I didn’t see anyone that I felt comfortable to approach. I crossed the road and sat down again. Then Lindsay came and sat down at the other end of the same bench. She took her phone out and I decided to wait until she had finished then ask her the question. When she had finished with the phone she got a banana from her bag and I asked if I could take her photo. She said yes with a smile and I explained the 100 strangers project.
Lindsay was on holiday with 2 of her sisters, her mum, her step dad, 2 nieces a nephew and a dog. They were staying in a caravan in Combe Martin, Devon. I asked if she had any further siblings and Lindsay told me that she has another Sister and another brother and that she is the youngest.
Lindsay has just finished her degree in Social Work and is looking for a job. It is hard because she finds herself competing with others who are qualified and have experience. I asked Lindsay what she did for fun while a student and she said that her course and part time job kept her busy – she worked in a shop which helped pay for her travelling (car insurance and road tax). Lindsay likes singing but just for fun e.g. in the shower, in her bedroom actually anywhere she goes but she doesn’t perform in public or do karaoke. She also likes photography.
While we were talking I spotted Karen (formerly stranger 23 but no longer a stranger now) approaching with a man. I asked Lindsay if she would excuse me a moment while I greeted someone else that I had photographed. Karen introduced me to her boyfriend and told him about the 100 strangers project – we had a brief chat and I introduced Lindsay.
Lindsay asked loads of stuff about me and I could see how suited she is to doing social and care work. We had a very easy conversation between photos. There were roadworks and temporary traffic lights in the High Street and a pink Fiat 500 stopped just opposite us. I made some remark about it. Lindsay said it would be nice in a different colour, not that she had anything against pink and she pointed to her zavosky necklace – which she loves and is pink – she got it as a present on her birthday before last.
Thank you Lindsay for letting me take your photo. It was lovely to have a chat with you. I wish you success with your job hunting. I am sure that you will do well
This picture is #037 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
Here's another picture of Lilly, I've not had much success with portraits with more of the body and am not confident with how to pose people. But I quite like this one.
Exif data auto added by theGOOD Uploadr
File Size : 6.2 mb
Camera Make : NIKON CORPORATION
Camera Model : NIKON D3000
Software : Adobe Photoshop CS5 Windows
Exposure : 0.017 seconds
Aperture : f/5.6
ISO Speed : 200
Focal Length : 26 mm
Subject Distance : 1.4 meters
Meet Micah.
I was walking down the street in downtown Mountain View, and next thing I know, I hear acoustic guitar and vocals streaming out of a side-alley. Turning the corner, I see Micah, singing his heart out to the fantastic acoustics of the hallway. I point to the camera with a "Can I?" look, and he nods.
Micah's been playing since he was 12 years old. He collects donations, but works three jobs. Mostly, he says he plays because of all the people he gets to meet. People who approach him, talk and share stories. Strangers who become more than just another face.
It was only when I turned to leave that I realized I had become just that.
Once it started getting a little darker it was time for myself and Colin to have a go with flash. Colin had bought his recently purchased off camera flash with him and was kind enough to let me have a play after he got some cool shots.
Nick and Laura would be the perfect strangers for this and were kind enough to be strangers for my 49th encounter. They had been out for afternoon tea at me hotel and were on their way back when we approached them. This time it was Colin's turn to be the light stand and he was fairly close on the left hand side. The flash had an orange gel on it which was in anticipation of balancing the surrounding light and also to warm the light up. There was also a mini soft box on it to soften the light. As a first attempt I think it came out quite nicely although as mentioned in the comments below it may be a tad orange (although not as much as originally thought.)
Anyway, it was a pleasure to meet both Nick and Laura and thank you both for being a part of the 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 especially on how the flash could have been utilised better.
This is a picture of Mathew who was in the middle of making a time lapse pop video with Sarah. The video was being made in Northumberland Street in Newcastle. It was absolutely freezing this day and you can just see some specs of snow on Mathew's hair.
Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page
Ilford FP4 Film, Ricoh 35 Rangefinder Camera, Ilfosol3 developer, Scanned from darkroom print using basic Epson 3 in 1
Walking through Nottingham, I noticed a closed shop that had shutters decorated with strange creatures. The colours reminded me of the ocean. I thought the shutters would make for a great backdrop for a stranger photograph and decided that I wanted someone wearing blue so I could keep a similar colour tone throughout the picture.
I saw Shannon and her friend Ash chatting a few paces away from the shop so stepped forward and introduced my stranger project to them, indicting my interest in photographing Shannon due to the colour of her dress against the background I pointed out to them. Once Shannon was in position Ash made sure her clothing was arranged just right and I began taking my photographs whilst Shannon went through a series of lively poses.
Shannon is from Nottingham and had come into the city for Pride. She has a job in retail but is using this to support her quest to become a professional figure skater.
I asked Shannon to describe herself in one word and she said unique. I then asked Ash what word she would use to describe Shannon and she said radiant.
What is Shannon’s biggest strength? “Determination,” she replied.
Shannon’s guilty pleasure is caffeine – way too much caffeine.
Thank-you Shannon for being such an enthusiastic stranger for me. I hope you like your portrait.
This picture is number 380 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 351st submission to the Human Family Group. To view more street portraits and stories visit www.flickr.com/groups/thehumanfamily/
Gavin was a man that I would have loved to get to know more. We got talking while his meal was getting cooked and it turned out he also has a passion for photography so we got talking everything cameras and lens then when he left my Boss said 'He would be a good stranger' so I went out the back deck and got talking to Gavin and his lovely wife and asked if he would join my strangers family, Im very happy you were willing Gavin.
Gavin would be in SA with a mate on a photography get away hopefully capturing amazing photos.
Thank you once again Gavin for willing to be my # 3 www.flickr.com/groups/100strangers/
I was headed home after meeting John, my stranger 214. Half way down the Tor I saw a young woman headed up with flowers in her dark hair. She returned my hello as she passed. As I walked a little further down I could see another young woman, with a flowers in her pink hair, headed up. I wondered if there was a Goddess festival today. I debated about asking the second goddess if I might take her photo. Rather than walk down to meet her, I sat down and waited.
As she got closer, I could tell that she was speaking to a man and woman. I heard her tell the lady that she hoped she might get a sun tan. Each of them returned my greeting s they passed. I continued down the Tor for a minute, then decided to go back up.
At the top of the Tor, I saw that the 3 people ahd joined my original “goddess”. They might be a family. I walked past them and wondered around the summit for a bit. Giving them a few minutes to settle and me a bit of time to consider my plan of attack.
The next time I saw the group, the dark haired young lady had separated from the others and was setting up shot with a camera close to the ground. I debated in my mind whether to approach her. I could wait until she had finished her photos, then ask her as she was making her way back to the group. I didn't do this.
Instead I asked Lily. She agreed and thought that Daisy, her sister would be a good stranger too. I introduced myself and asked their mum if she liked flowers. She said that having name her first daughter Lily, she thought that the flower theme was good.
Just after they agreed to be part of my project, another woman approached. She gestured with her phone. She wanted to take a photo of Lily and Daisy. It felt a bit like a hijack. The two young women posed for a photo, then the lady with the phone approached me – did she want me in the photo too, I wondered. Of course not – she wanted me to take a photo, with her phone, of her with the two goddesses. With hindsight perhaps I should have given her my card and got her to send the photo to me – sometimes I just think too slowly.
Lily is a dancer. She performs and teaches. The enjoys teaching children and they love her too – particularly because of the colours in her hair. Lily is very chatty. She told me of her love of Pride and Predjudice – in many forms.. the book, the films and more.
When I told Lily that I had come back up the hill because she looked cool she was very pleased. She said that she had been trying to look cool and wasn't sure whether she had succeeded, her sister always looks cool and doesn't need to try.
Lily spotted a sheep in a nearby field. I told her that sometimes they are on the top. Lily would like to have been on the Tor with the sheep. They are her favourite animal. “I'd rather have a sheep than a unicorn” she said.
Thank you Lily for agreeing to be in my project. It was good to meet you and your family. Best wishes for your dancing.
This picture is stranger 215 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
So this is Hyun.
She was sitting next to a fountain, in Plaça Catalunya, quite busy texting someone on the phone. I wasn't in a hurry, so i decided to camp near for a couple of minutes just to see if she'd pause her frenetic activity and would be willing to pose for me.
And it happened, but just for some brief instants, during which I asked her if she accepted being photographed, briefly explained the project, and asked her name. Everything went fast and was a bit confusing, specially because she barely spoke English and my Korean is not brilliant (to put it in a way).
She accepted, and concerning her name, she said "you can call me Hyun", or something similar. Despite her feline ears, she was very timid and gave just a couple of seconds for the portrait befire resuming the phone activity. I stayed there, eye in visor, waiting for something to happen, and when she eventually looked again, a shy smile appeared, and the shutter was pressed.
After that I felt my presence was bothering her, so I merely thanked Hyun for her time and moved away, feeling a bit weird. Well, it happens sometimes...
This picture is #38 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.
part of a series of photos I'm taking of complete strangers; I just need to walk up and ask if I can get a shot.
This two last days, I focused only on men. I try to balance the man/woman parity. So I tried to get old men. I asked at least 6 or 7 guys. All denied, but everyone with a smile !
Then, I asked Christian who seemed suspicious. Finally, after my explanation, he accepted ! The end of a bad series ! Christian is retired, and worked as teacher in Economic and Social Sciences. He was quite sad when he said me he feels alone since his divorce.
Then, he ask me my age, and my Astrology sign. I'm 29 and fish ! :) He gave me lot of information about me. He is fond of astrology. He said me that I feel belonging to a global and social world, I'm a sensitive person and... I forgot the other things ! I don't know if it's true. Actually, I don't believe in astrology even if sometime I like to read my horoscope ! I remember an experience that a teacher did with his students. He gave a personality description based on astrology to all of his students and he asked then to rate the description (0=not accurate, 5=perfect). The average was 4.26 whereas everybody had the same description ! It's called barnum effect of forer effect.
Thank you Christian !
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. 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
Walking through the vibrant Kensington Market area of Toronto I spotted Edward who was clearly looking for photo opportunities himself. I introduced myself and explained my project. Edward is a flickr user who is a keen street photographer and had heard of the 100 stranger project. Edward is listed on Flickr as Ed Johnson- Toronto arrival
If you are reading this Edwardmany 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 is David.
Stranger #15 was cycling along the Sheerness seafront when I flagged him down and explained about the 100 Strangers project. "Sheerness born and bred" David was happy to have his photo taken, before cycling off again. What a nice man.
An interesting fact about David? After a brief explanation about how I came to be taking photographs on the Isle of Sheppey, it turns out that my father-in-law taught him art at school. Newly qualified at the time, and now over 40 years ago, David said that he sometimes sees my father-in-law in at the supermarket and "he hasn't changed at all". I offered to pass on David's regards, but he replied, "Oh, he won't remember me. No, I'm sure he won't remember me".
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.
Taken in Sheerness, Kent, UK on 08/04/2012
“Oh no! You can’t take my picture, I’m just going to the hairdressers!”
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I didn't get much of a chance to chat with Fabia as she was really late for an appointment with her hairdresser. She insisted I catch her afterwards to get a better picture of her...I think she looked great even before going in there! :)
This picture is #031 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 Flavio in a centric street, while he was trying to capture a self portrait with his phone.
Despite his apparent corpulence and not looking like the friendliest man on the city, I tried my chances with him and luckily he proved me wrong.
I offered to take him a portrait and send it to him if he wanted to, but kindly refused. I didn't dispair: my B plan was to explain him the Strangers project, and he expressed no objection to that, so on we went.
Since he seemed eager to cooperate, I positioned him against a wooden door nearby which I thought it would be a nice background. However, the light seemed turned out to be rather flat and I didn't nail the focus very well (alas, the 50mm) so I decided to try again, simply by turning to a side and trying to get a better illumination and a fading stone wall with some stores at the end, towards the Cathedral square, as a background. The slightly tilted body position looked a bit more dynamic to me so I decided to stick with this one.
Flavio proved to be a kind man, a bit on the shy side. Apparently he comes from Brazil but lives in the country, and was spending some time visiting Barcelona. Even though it is rather likely he won't ever see this portrait, I'm thankful for the time he spend with me and for that little gift of a portrait.
BTW I'm still undecided about wich version looks better: the color or the black and white conversion. I leave that up to you, fellow photographers :-)
This picture is #39 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.
Ross was the second stranger I met at the Bikes & Barges event in Maldon this afternoon. He was playing bass with his tribute band The Doll Set Tones, entertaining folks on the quayside with a couple of catchy sets. I made a picture as he was playing – his colourful sunglasses immediately caught my attention. But that image wasn’t great, and at that point, I hadn’t spoken to him, so it was just a candid portrait. Sometime later, I was wandering around making images of the bikes on show and Ross walked towards me and the two friends I was with. I was just about to grab the chance and ask if he would mind me taking his picture, when he suddenly recognised my two companions whom he’s know for about 15 years but hadn’t seen for ages! So of course we got chatting. He started out as an apprentice motorbike mechanic working for my friend Simon, but left a few years ago. The modest rock and roll lifestyle he leads clearly wasn’t sufficient for his wife, who was apparently at a Robbie Williams gig today, rather than listening to hubby play! He also breeds cats as a hobby – Simon and Sue have one of his (now grown) kittens, Sox. It’s a small world really, and although Ross was a stranger to me, he was an old friend to my mates. Great to meet you, Ross. More info. Ref: D700-030
This picture is #30 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 #47 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
Emily was waiting for her friend in the middle of Birmingham. Ideally we should have moved out of the sun and found a better back drop but I didn't want to push my luck as I expect Emily would not have wanted to miss her friend.
I appear to be on a lucky streak at the moment as everybody I have asked lately has willingly agreed to take part My 100 Strangers Project and let me take a number of different shots (I hope I have not spoken too soon)
If you are reading this Emily, 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.