Is This Mine To Take ?

Thoughts on taking photos of strangers, it’s all about respect.

“Weaving Strips of Palm Leaves for Palm Sunday” — Image by Author

She is not happy with my camera’s intrusion. I did not see her direct gaze until I opened this image later for editing. I felt uncomfortable when I saw it. I am using it here to illustrate a point.

“Priest and Parishioners on Palm Sunday” — Image by Author

This was obviously a private moment and none of them took notice of me. Still I made the image. It is a piece of Oaxaca culture. I thought it was a cool photo.

Obviously my psyche has been uncomfortable with my voyerisom. This is what this story is really about.

Several of my recent stories here, have been about street photography in Oaxaca. I have proudly included many images and written about overcoming my shy nature, while getting comfortable pointing my camera at strangers.

This morning I had an odd experience, that has made me rethink this whole street photography genre. And especially my taking pride in it.

“Shaft of Holy Light” — Image by Author