As I’m Watching Them, They Turn To Look At Me

Street Photography In Oaxaca Can Have Its Awkward Moments

“Photographer to Photographer” — Image by Author

This story was inspired by several touching comments I received from fellow photography writer, Charles G. Haacker, on the subject of Street Photography.

If you have more than a passing interest in photography you will want to read his fine work here. Charles is a lifelong professional photographer, and an early convert to digital photography. He shares his vast knowledge with a light hearted sense of humor. I highly recommend his stories. And tell him I sent you.

This story is about when I am photographing people on the street, and just before I click the shutter, I see them looking back at me. This was the case in the surprised look above.

This man is obviously a photographer himself, as he is holding a film camera, and has another hanging on a strap around his neck. I still can’t decide if his look is annoyed, or just surprised. I will assume the latter.

“Smiling Back at Me” — Image by Author

This man happened to look up from his phone as I was adjusting the focus ring on my camera. His smile was encouragement enough to go ahead and click the shutter.