Street Photography

I was the unsuspecting subject of street photography about three weeks ago. I was on my way to class one afternoon when I found a bag taped to my moped's handlebar. Inside was a black and white photo of my friend and I getting on that moped a few weeks prior. We both had on our helmets, big sunglasses and even larger grins on our faces. A note was attached explaining that the photographer, a local man, was driving past when he saw the two of us. He pulled out his camera quickly to capture the moment. After developing the photo, he wanted us to have a copy. At first, my friend and I were upset. We felt violated and totally creeped out. However, after walking past the picture sitting on our counter for the next few days, we began to appreciate the photo. The photographer, a total stranger, managed to capture all of our emotions perfectly. Daily, we squeeze on my one person moped to zip to class or run errands. We know that we are a spectacle and have gotten used to laughter and fingers being pointed at our expense. At the same time, we cannot help smiling and laughing from pure excitement and joy. The picture is now framed and hanging in our apartment.

I'm sharing this story because the readings about street photography have a deeper meaning for me after my experience. As David Snider commented, "I had to confront my fear an unpleasant response to my "taking" someone's photo without their permission." Initially, I was upset that my photo was taken without my consent. However, I am grateful to the photographer and still amazed that I did not see him. I appear to be looking straight into the camera, but as per David LaBelle's suggestion, the photographer "silently stalked" us, his prey. I hope to explore street photography myself someday, borrowing tips from these readings and my own experience. It's incredibly unique and rewarding to have the opportunity to communicate one's own perspective on the world around him/her at moment's notice, through the lens of a camera.