thirtyfivefifty
Noctilust survivor
Despite all this new gear arriving in the market in recent times, like the Fujifilm X-Series, which has been leading the way in answering the prayers of photographers everywhere who've been wanting a decent performing digital camera with usability and form factor similar to their film rangefinders and/or compact SLR at a price point well below you know who, I can't help but be disconnected from all the buzz and excitement.
At the end of the day, I'm still a quiet 6'0" (183cm) guy who sticks out like a sore thumb in peoples' eyes when I'm nearby or while I casually walk by, so I don't subscribe to the idea that buying a new camera can somehow make you more or less invisible. Whether it's a 35mm rangefinder with leaf shutter or a digital SLR gripped or un-gripped or a point and shoot, all of which can be held down in my hand at my side, it's always the same. They look up at me, they trace my body with their eyes, see a camera in my hand, and they react. Even my close friends aren't comfortable with me with a camera.
Early on, I found it frustrating and a bit embarrassing, but in recent time, I figure, this is who I am, I love the cameras that I own, and being tall shouldn't be seen as a hindrance, but a basis for a different approach or perspective.
I pretty much keep it simple when it comes to gear. One body, one lens at a time, minimal bulk. I've also looked at street photographers, and photojournalists for some guidance picking up things such as move slowly, don't raise your voice, be respectful, smile, say hello.
I don't want to be one of those photographers who have total disregard for others to make a photo. Instead, I want to enjoy life as it comes, take it all in stride, and make photographs together with others. Ultimately, I feel that my intimidating physical presence, and my utter clueless-ness when it comes to interacting with others AS a photographer with a camera at hand, is what's holding me back the most when it comes to my development as a photographer.
Was wondering if any of you had similar experience where something about you, in which you had no control over, has created a problem. Any comments, tips, or insight (especially on the psychology of subjects and society in this day in age) is greatly appreciated. Thank you.
At the end of the day, I'm still a quiet 6'0" (183cm) guy who sticks out like a sore thumb in peoples' eyes when I'm nearby or while I casually walk by, so I don't subscribe to the idea that buying a new camera can somehow make you more or less invisible. Whether it's a 35mm rangefinder with leaf shutter or a digital SLR gripped or un-gripped or a point and shoot, all of which can be held down in my hand at my side, it's always the same. They look up at me, they trace my body with their eyes, see a camera in my hand, and they react. Even my close friends aren't comfortable with me with a camera.
Early on, I found it frustrating and a bit embarrassing, but in recent time, I figure, this is who I am, I love the cameras that I own, and being tall shouldn't be seen as a hindrance, but a basis for a different approach or perspective.
I pretty much keep it simple when it comes to gear. One body, one lens at a time, minimal bulk. I've also looked at street photographers, and photojournalists for some guidance picking up things such as move slowly, don't raise your voice, be respectful, smile, say hello.
I don't want to be one of those photographers who have total disregard for others to make a photo. Instead, I want to enjoy life as it comes, take it all in stride, and make photographs together with others. Ultimately, I feel that my intimidating physical presence, and my utter clueless-ness when it comes to interacting with others AS a photographer with a camera at hand, is what's holding me back the most when it comes to my development as a photographer.
Was wondering if any of you had similar experience where something about you, in which you had no control over, has created a problem. Any comments, tips, or insight (especially on the psychology of subjects and society in this day in age) is greatly appreciated. Thank you.
