For the get pushed challenge given me by Lois Webb @so_lo_webb -- to "take an environmental portrait. This is a portrait that includes the context of the person in it (a butcher in their shop for instance). It can be candid or structured (posed)."
So last night I went to People's Grocery (food cooperative) to buy some curry powder, and to pluck up my courage and talk to someone working there and ask to photograph them. This is Scott Brelsford. He's a very friendly and nice guy, and is actually the general manager -- was hired for that position about four years ago. I took some photos of him ringing up a customer's purchases. And then I asked what was his favorite part of the store. Bulk herbs and spices, as it turns out. And cumin is probably his favorite spice. So I photographed him standing next to the spice counter with a jar of cumin.
I didn't take too many shots -- mainly because I still feel awkward and shy photographing strangers. But also because they were going to be closing before long and I wanted to let him get back to his work.
I think these are fairly decent shots of him. I particularly like the one of him helping the customer. I need more practice, though. Someday maybe I will arrange ahead of time to photograph someone in their workplace (or other environment) and take more time with it.
It is so HARD to get up nerve to ask a stranger for a pic...they are usually so skeptical and wonder what we are really up to. Great job, Mary! I think they came out nice.
@steampowered@siwainastromoy@espyetta@happysnap@38dcmoder Thanks for all of your comments and moral support. It's strange. I'm a VERY gregarious person. I have no problem turning to the person behind or in front of me in line and striking up a conversation -- and getting to know about them. But to ask to take their picture -- my insides turn to jelly and I have to really work to screw up the courage. I know things become easier with practice. I need to work on letting my friendly self take the reins -- and figure out the right way to approach the "Can I take your picture?" part.
(Linda, @se7en , Fridays)