Hearing “NO”

I love photographing people.

Candid moments are fine and part of my mission, however, I find creating images of people with consent very satisfying.

The secret to a successful Street Portrait is in direct proportion to the depth of rapport I have managed to create. In fact, my best images have all been created at the end of a conversation where I felt genuinely interested in the person. The conversation may have been initiated by me or the person in question.

The image above got created because these two gentleman recognised me from Television. So began our conversation where I started asking questions about them. Keep in mind, I am deaf so my lip reading needs to be on point.

These images of the lovely Avion got created shortly after she approached me photographing some flowers.

I saw this man and his Bicycle with Flowers and thought this is interesting. I created a few frames. Out of nowhere, Avion approached me and we started enjoying a pleasant conversation. I asked her if she would like to be my model for a few moments - she agreed and voila - great images.

I have come to appreciate being open, receptive and responsive to others is part of the secret. When I started my journey as a Street Photographer, I was terrified of approaching people. Even more so because I had a big Nikon Camera.

Now, I no longer experience fear. I walk the streets with my Fuji’s or my Nikon with a Telephoto Lens with a smile on my face.

It all begins with a smile and asking.

The word NO…….is just a word.

No, is just an uncertain reaction.

What we make the word NO mean is the issue, not the fear of rejection.

So, it’s ok to smile and just ask, like it’s the most natural thing in the world.

😀📸

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