Too hot here recently to be out in the midday sun so we decided to go out for breakfast on the water front at a bistro at Lee on Solent.
While Ray was placing the order, I got to thinking that the young man behind the bar might like to be in my project. So, as Ray went to sit outside in a table in the shade, I introduced myself and asked if I could take his portrait. He seemed very composed and I felt he would make a good subject. He wanted to know more about my project and then said he was happy to help. Meet Jamie.
I took a few shots, standing aside briefly when one or two customers came up to the bar. Jamie did not want to see the photos at the time, saying he would wait until I sent him some via mail as I had already offered.
Jamie told me he is one of three managers at the bistro where he has worked for over 2 years. I asked what he had been doing before that and he told me he is only nineteen. He would like to progress to another job but is not yet sure what direction he might take. He is particularly interested in computing and coding. He also likes science but feels he did not take full advantage of the opportunities available when he was at school.
He offered to send me a bit more information about himself when he received the photos but has not been in touch again. A bit disappointing but I guess he is busy and it means I have not as much to write as I normally do!
On a walk along the prom before going home, we met crowds of runners, all looking hot, some grunting and groaning, some even pushing little children in pushchairs. This was the 5km Park Run which takes place every Saturday morning and the reason for such a big turnout was Dame Kelly Holmes had come to join in for the 3rd birthday of the Park Run at Lee on Solent.
The confidence of youth! What a great portrait Hazel you have really captured his personality! Unusual for a youngster to like someone taking their portrait as they normally prefer selfies. Perhaps he has had lots of practice posing for himself?
Always - if they want me to!
Exactly - and we take it for granted!
I thought that too. I mean when did anyone in our early work days become a manager aged 19!
Yes, I thought he was very smart. (William, how many bistro managers do you know?!)