I was lucky to meet Jenny and little Olive as I was walking across the water meadows towards the almshouses at St Cross. It was a beautiful mellow autumn day and I'd decided to forego my swim in favour of some fresh air and, hopefully, a few photographs.
It was nearly an unlucky day because I caught my boot on something hidden underneath the fallen leaves and struggled to stay on my feet. I stood still for a bit and noticed Jenny coming along behind me and felt at least she would have helped me up!
Then I saw she had a little black pug with her. I have a soft spot for them but this was the sweetest, tiniest one I'd ever seen. I thought to ask for a photo of the pug and then thought a portrait of both Jenny and Olive would be good.
After I'd explained my strangers' project, Jenny was very happy for me to take a couple of shots and picked Olive up. I'm not too sure how happy Olive was because as you can see, she is firmly sticking her tongue out.
Jenny told me that Olive belongs to her daughter but being retired she looks after her during the day and takes her for walks as her daughter is a teacher. I asked about Jenny's work and she said she used to be a nurse practitioner (even better if you fall over on a rough path!)
She also has always loved singing and enjoys drama and hopes to renew and expand her involvement in both of these passions. She and her husband have travelled and lived all over the world with his work. He has just retired and they now live locally
We were walking as we were talking and had reached the last gate before St Cross. A lady approaching us with a collie-type dog warned that he was rather grumpy so Olive was quickly and easily lifted out of harm's way. I took advantage to take one more photo: Olive still stuck out her tongue.
Apparently out walking anywhere, Olive always attracts lots of attention, which I can well believe. Jenny gave me her email address so I could send a photo and we parted company.
This was a great start to the day. Good wishes to Jenny and her husband for a happy retirement.
Lovely light and colour another great stranger image and story Hazel, it was also a nice clear day with sunshine, went out walking myself looking for colours in the trees:)
You are so good at these shots. I admire you so for the ability to connect with these folks And I really like how both Jenny and Olive's heads are in almost the same position.
A new friend made because of your photography project Hazel, you must be getting a name round your area....the lady with the camera! Glad you stayed upright too, a bit of a scare! Lovely happy pair, the best way to have a dog, someone to walk with but not a tying worry when you want to go away!
a lovely story and a fab pug too . Watch out for placing strangers in direct sunlight because the light can be a bit harsh . I always try to direct them to a bit of shade :)
I have to say that I still meet people out by chance whose portrait I've taken! I'll never know how I stayed uoright. Was just waiting for the crash!