A Stroll or a Project
Photographers are everywhere today. And that’s good! But, when they’re out taking photos, are they on a stroll or a project? I find my purpose or intent changes.
The photos in this post are an example of what I get on a stroll. I went with Judy who had a meeting in the Gold Coast neighborhood of Chicago and figured I’d just walk around and observe. Though I have lived in Chicagoland my entire life, I had no preconception of what I would or could photograph in this neighborhood. That is, I wasn’t sure what scenes I’d find, how I’d be “received” by the people, where the activity was most apparent, etc. I ended up with a bunch of eclectic photos that I really liked…this post just represents a small sample! The image above (and below) are pretty typical of what I had in my mind. That is, beautiful buildings and homes with residents strolling on the sidewalks. With both photos, I picked a spot in front of what I considered to be a nice looking home and waited for someone to stroll into my composition. No conversations, per se…I just smiled as the person passed by.
As I walked along, I couldn’t help but notice that there are a ton of dog walkers in the neighborhood. Not surprising, given the “sidewalk nature” of the area. I started wondering if I was on a stroll or a project because dog walkers could be a good theme. (See above and below, for examples.) To some photographers and people interested in photography, themes can be more appealing. They can provide a focus (excuse the pun) for the photographer…a justification, so to speak, for walking around with a camera.
On the other hand, concentrating on a particular subject or topic may take away or interfere with other potential scenes like the one below. I was just standing by the intersection and I saw this group approaching. They looked so quaint and sweet! I took a couple of photos as they approached, but I preferred the atmosphere, so to speak, as they walked away down the tree lined sidewalk. To me, it screamed for a black and white treatment.
I was still thinking to myself, at this point, if I was on a stroll or a project. But, I clearly determined I didn’t want or need a narrow topic this day. I frequently am very happy and content just walking around with my camera and letting things unfold in front of me.
Here (below) are a couple of photos I consider “street photography” or “street portraits.” I really enjoy taking this kind of photo. I like being in the moment, trying to capture a slice of life. And I like getting people into the images…adds so much context and flavor.
Finally, it’s always fun to find interesting buildings or artifacts. This image, below, was apparent to me from quite a distance. I kept my eye on it as I walked closer and felt that the composition had some interesting graphic elements and interest.
And you always have to keep your eyes open for a bit of whimsy! (see below)
Gotta go back to this neighborhood! And now that I’ve spent some time strolling about, it might be fun to have a theme (hmm…what should it be? Dogs, cigarette smokers, people using cell phones, etc.???). Though whether it’s a stroll or a project, it’s always fun for me!
Thanks for stopping by!
Stephen M. Levin
www.SML-Photos.com
Facebook – @stephenmlevinphotography
Twitter – @stephen_levin
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stephen@sml-photos.com
Love them all especially the No Barking sign!
Thanks much! Good to hear.
I happened to “bump” into the No Barking sign in an alley, I believe! Ya never know where things will appear!
Fun to see what you were doing while I was inside discussing a book. The streets come alive through your photos.
It’s fun for me, too! I try to have a preconception about what I may encounter, but that rarely works out. The streets are alive!
I love how traveling with you to some of your groups exposes me to interesting photo opportunities! Thanks.
And this is all from just one stroll, one day. Any one of these images could be the subject for a series.
Exactly! That does happen, Jonathan. As you know quite well!
Thanks.
i would call it a Stroll. You were passing time as Judy was busy at a meeting. But at times it can become a Project depending upon your mind set and subjects.
You have a great collection of images perfectly executed. Each one is outstanding. I love the contrast of the two dog walker images. it is obvious in one the dog is walking it’s master and vice versa in the other.
Appreciated much, Stan!
Yes…the dog walkers could make an interesting and challenging project at some point. In fact, I know it’s been done by many people over the years.
I absolutely enjoy the act of just walking around, eyes open, with my camera. But, like many, I’m always thinking about possible themes to explore, too!
Hmmm……. Chicago’s Bill Cunningham!!!
For starters, not enough fashion in these photos, I’m afraid! haha
Thanks, Nan.
Steve – Great shots and great commentary. I particularly like the 1400 (Aster?) facade. Beautiful color, texture and mixture of geometric shapes.
Thanks, Mark!
Definitely a charming, classic neighborhood with a unique architectural character.