Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1998/12/03

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Subject: Re: [Leica] Re: on being inobtrusive
From: Carl Socolow <csocolow@microserve.net>
Date: Thu, 03 Dec 1998 12:15:40 -0500

doug ultch wrote:
SNIP

> By
> combining the useful hint of presetting your exposure and hyperfocal
> distance AND carrying the camera in your hand you are the least
> threatening and therefore the most inobtrusive. This method involves
> some risk of dropping the camera but the rewards much outweigh the
> risk.....wrap the strap around your wrist if it's a big concern.
> Well yes, I've been chased by circus folks and had dogs set after me
> but I suspect these objectors were wanted in other states for unknown
> crimes.......

Apparently this is how Robert Frank worked. Leica at his side, strap
wrapped around his wrist. Preset. Prefocused. If you look at his book
"The Americans" you will notice there are some photos that appear to
have been made from this position: camera at his side. They work. A
quick counterpoint to the argument that all photos must be made with the
viewfinder at one's eye. Sorry Ted. :)

Carl Socolow