Wendy [Stranger #19]

This picture is #19 in the 100 Strangers Project - Round 3

 

Was visiting family in Mumbai, India for a short vacation last month. The incessant but necessary rains eally dampened a lot of plans making general travel within the city challenging especially with the traffic. But still had the odd opportunity to walk around seeking strangers for the project. The next few encounters are, in no particular order, from my Mumbai days.

 

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Meet Wendy

 

Some places just end up throwing up interesting people and faces - just like Bethesda has been great for the project Bandra was another spot in Mumbai that gave me some more such wonderful opportunities.

 

One of the days, When wifey and mom decided to go shopping in this popular street, I decided to grab the opportunity and take the camera for a walk However didn't have much luck for a while- with some intermittent rains not helping matters. Funny thing though - seeing me walking around with a large camera and large 70-200 mm lens caused some alarm to few street side vendors selling clothes, footwear etc In fact a few of them gathered around me asking if they should be worried, assuming I was associated with the city corporation (possibly photographing squatters). I assured them I wasn't and to breathe easy - but it was quite east to see a steady gaze of suspicious eyes still following my steps for the rest of my time there.

 

Anyways, I was lucky to spot Wendy walking in my general direction a few minutes later. The lady in black, was difficult to miss with her confident presence, with those dazzling eyes greatly complimented by the hair. When I requested her a few minutes later, she was happy to be a part of the project. She offered to open up her hair for the pictures which only further enhanced her look. What was cool, was her nonchalance and her "don't care" attitude - completely unperturbed by the onlookers who thought we were doing something rather important. Although we shoot a few pictures in open shade, I wasn't completely satisfied. So we walked a few steps to find this passage at the entrance of a old building that gave some good directional light and texture.

 

Also used the time to find out a little more about our subject. Wendy is a crew manager on a cruise ship, primarily travelling to Australia. She was on a short break, resting at home, and finishing up last minute shopping before embarking on her next trip. Her hobbies - besides travelling she loved shopping and was also a self-confessed foodie. Her favorite quality about herself was her friendly nature which was quite visible during our interaction. Her favorite fond memory she recalled was when she first met her boyfriend about 6 years ago. One advise she would give Wendy five years younger - eat less - she said with a smile given her love for food.

 

Thank you Wendy being a part of my project and doing these pics trusting a stranger in this random set-up. It was great making your acquaintance and I wish you safe travels and all the best for your future

 

Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page

For my other pictures on this project: 100 Strangers - Round 2.

For pictures from my prior attempt at 100 Strangers: 100 Strangers - Round 1.

Done