Credit where credit is due

[zauhar]

Like all RFFers who shoot on the street, I have had a number of negative experiences. I feel I should report this rare, positive exception.

I was in Ardmore, PA (a Philadelphia suburb) last Friday night, waiting for my kid to finish orchestra rehearsal. This is a weekly event held at a church there, and I always go out shooting. Last Friday I was at the Ardmore Post office lot where the mail trucks are parked.

I was lurking in the dark trying to find an interesting vantage point, when I was surprised by the back door opening (this was way after closing time). I will assume it was the postmaster - he spotted me while going to his car and came over. "Can I help you with something?"

I tensed up expecting a confrontation, but calmly explained that I was taking some low-light photos. He said "Some special purpose, or just for yourself?" I said it was just personal, and he said "No problem" and went to his car. I thanked him and went about my business.

This is the first time that has ever happened. Assuming it was the postmaster I spoke with, his name is Angelo Valucci, and I will send him some manner of thank you.

Randy

 

[gb hill]

It's nice to run into someone with some common since. Sounds like he might be a fellow photographer.

 

[charjohncarter]

Send him a nice B&W picture of the truck. Believe me; he will like it.

 

[robert blu]

Nice to know about a positive experience, yes, you should send him a nice B&W picture.
robert

 

[dave lackey]

Randy, sending him a photo or two would really be good. He was aware you were on the premises before going out as the CCTV is always vigil.

However...

Last year I waited a long time for my IIIF to come in the mail. It did but I missed the postman by 30 seconds and someone had to sign for it. So, I went to the local post office and hung out in the dark on the docks. About 45 minutes later, the truck showed up and I got my Barnack!

But, I was being watched by cameras on the premises. Creepy. But what bothered me was I actually could and did walk into the building to talk to someone and let them know I was waiting...no ID, no verification or anything.

Like the old days...just a couple of workers coming out for a smoke and talking with them. Hope it doesn't change as now you have given me inspiration to go photograph a postal carrier and/or vehicle!😛

 

[Richard G]

I get a lot of this, partly as I am out at lunchtime with a jacket and tie on. Most worry I am from the council as I photograph dilapidated buildings and old iron roofs. Their relief, mixed with pity, tinged with disbelief, is quite touching.

 

[denizg7]

Send him a nice B&W picture of the truck. Believe me; he will like it.

yes do this

 

[zauhar]

Nice suggestion to send a print, guys. I hope that one of the shots turns out, I have been experimenting with pushing tri-x (arista) to 1600 in microphen, so far I like the results.

Randy

 

[icebear]

...
I tensed up expecting a confrontation, but calmly explained that I was taking some low-light photos. He said "Some special purpose, or just for yourself?" I said it was just personal, and he said "No problem" and went to his car. ...

Randy

Hi Randy,

thanks for sharing your experience.
A good example for "be honest and don't try to make something up" will work in most cases just to calm things down and make the obvious point that there is nothing strange of even dangerous going on.