Walking past Sainsbury's Local on a trip out, Ray had the idea of picking up a couple of items missing from that morning's weekly shopping delivery. Having manoeuvred my mobility scooter ready for off when he came out of the store, I sat outside idly watching comings and goings. Suddenly a customer, a young man on his way into the store, jokingly gestured to me to take his photo.
Having been starved of stranger portraits for around nine months because of the pandemic, my reply was swift and serious but I hope with a light touch, explaining my strangers' portraiture. We introduced ourselves and Stuart was happy for me to take his portrait.
The background, as often in impromptu work out and about, was not too exciting with the advertising on the plate glass window meeting the brick wall. Plus my intention was not to have a Dutch tilt to the shot but working from a scooter has its moments. I was happy nonetheless with the shots.
I asked Stuart about himself and he told me he is married with three children, ages eleven, four, and one and a half. He does 'a bit of this and that' including property maintenance but his main role is as house-husband caring for his sons while his wife pursues her ambition to be a paramedic. She is currently working to achieve her C1 licence which will enable her to drive an ambulance and plans to apply to South Central Ambulance Service. I remarked that Ray worked as a voluntary ambulance car driver for patient transport for many years after early retirement.
It was interesting to learn that Stuart's wife's interest in photography arose from her modelling work which prompted her to find out what it is like to be behind the camera rather than in front of it. I found myself, because I now need support to walk, directing Stuart where to stand instead of walking around the shot as I might well have done.
Believe it or not, I had taken a contact card out for the first time in ages, so I thanked Stuart and offered him to be in touch for photos. Ray appeared from the shop with his purchases and we set off to the car park.
I was thinking my strangers' portraits had become a victim of Covid so I am very happy to have this portrait. I wish Stuart and his wife all the very best for their future.
https://flic.kr/p/2m7UQFn
Good to think some normal opportunities returning.
This is a lovely portrait and an interesting story.