Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2001/04/24

[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]

Subject: RE: [Leica] photographing anarchists (was re: quebec)
From: "Dan Honemann" <danh@selectsa.com>
Date: Tue, 24 Apr 2001 11:54:58 -0400

It was quite an experience shooting with Kyle on Sunday.  I've only shot by
myself before this event, and am one of those shooters who hangs back, takes
the shot, smiles, and then scurries away.  I have always had the (wrong)
notion that I'm being enough of a nuissance taking people's photograph; I
don't want to further pester them by making small talk (and I suck at small
talk, anyway).  I sometimes ask if I can take a photo, but usually just
click away, especially at events like rallies where there are hoardes of
photographers snapping along with me.

But I noticed that Kyle _always_ asks for permission first, and then strikes
up conversation during and after the shoot (I was happily shooting right
behind him!).  And he had to get _real_ close while shooting with the 15
Heliar.  I was surprised to find how friendly most of the folks were
(granted, many of them--esp. the anarchists--were kids), and how they didn't
mind posing for shots (and Kyle is a master at composing).

I think I'll practice Kyle's approach more and see if I can get comfortable
with it.  I do have to say that Kyle is a very hip (and much younger, and
far more handsome) looking guy and so gets away with stuff I doubt I
could--at least in these crowds.  He also has an extremely laid back
attitude that has folks he meets feeling quickly at ease.

I'd love to spend more time shooting with others if anyone is interested.
You learn so much this way--stuff I'd never pick up on just shooting solo.
I do wish Ted would come over to DC sometime; I'd love to watch the Maestro
himself in action!

Dan

> Remember kids: PHOTOGRAPH WITH YOUR MOUTH AS WELL AS YOUR CAMERA.
>
> my advice for the week.
>
> kc