Thursday, May 06, 2010

WAITING AT THE DOCTOR'S OFFICE

8:45 a.m., 6 May 2010

At the doctor's office this morning, this lady was waiting, as was I. I asked if I could photograph her -- I like the way her light blue/cyan dress dominated and highlighted the drab waiting room and its furnishings. She said, yes, but do you know why I'm dressed like this? It's St Mary's week, she said, and then showed me her knotted belt. Not being a Catholic, I knew nothing of the tradition. I posted the image to Facebook, and a woman photographer I know commented that she is always shy about such situations and would probably not have asked for permission, nor made the image. When I asked for her permission, the subject asked why? I told her I was a photo teacher and that I try and practice what I tell my students -- carry your camera with you at all times. "Good pictures come when opportunity meets with preparation." She then reached in her purse and pulled out her P/S Canon -- "I never go anywhere without it." She said she was from Damascus, Syria, and even though she only lacked a few hours of study to finish her degree in electrical engineering, she spends her time as a volunteer at the public Library in Worcester. I offered to send her a copy, but she said she knew what she looked like. We both laughed at that, and before I could insist, the physicians assistant came to get me. I'll drop a print of her off at the library next week.

6 comments:

luksky said...

Cool Post! Especially cool that you obviously carry your camera around with you everywhere.

When I am out and about I always see things that I want to photograph....most the times I don't have my camera on me.

I also think it's cool that you aren't shy about asking someone if you can photo them.

It reminds me there is a little ole' black man that lives not far from where I do. He is always sitting outside with his pet goat. So many times I wish I have had the nerve to stop and ask him if I could photograph him.....

Liz Mattarazzo said...

I really like the way you told this story, it sounds just like you. But it is a great picture :) I'm sure she'll appreciate you making her a print and tracking her down

pitchertaker said...

I have already made a print for her, and I know where she works. I want to do more of these types of images....and probably will this summer.

Don and Sher said...

Good to see you back. I love the image very colorful. I always have a camera with me since I retired I don't want to miss out on anything that life may offer me. The other day while the wife was shopping it started to por. I made a series of pictures of shoppers through the rain plattered window, please check it out and tell me what you think.
Thanks Don

Pat Tillett said...

Hi there, I saw your link at Don and Sher's blog and thought I'd take a peek. I'm sure glad I did.
I love your photos.

I agree with what you said in this post. I ALWAYS have a camera with me. It seems like when I don't, I regret it!

Anyway, if you don't mind, I'm going to tag along.
thanks!

patricktillett.blogspot.com

pitchertaker said...

Thanks, Pat, please do. I have put a "follow" on your blog.

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