NZ visual diary - entry 90

statement-of-being

Throughout today's walkabout along the harbour area and Queen Street, I saw groups of young people walking proudly but self-consciously in an array of elaborate costumes. I was witness to the trailing parade of participants in an event on a theme of fantasy. Its participants had spent hours preparing themselves for the gathering and celebration.

The young man featured here had stopped at a street corner with his mates, and I gently interrupted the animated conversation to ask if he would object to being photographed.

Not only did he readily agree, he began an elegant fast-frame series of poses worthy of a fashion photo shoot. I had noticed his habit of balancing on one foot and decided to acknowledge his preferred posture by selecting this image among the many rapid-fire exposures I took to keep pace with his balletic movement, movement not easily achieved in those stiff shoes.

My awkwardness as a novice street photographer stood in comical contrast to his studied but effortless posing. I had taken the time, before approaching him and his circle of mates, to observe the faces of passers-by and consider their reactions of indifference or disapproval. I believe that his smile seen here was more than simply an element of the pose. It was also an expression of gratitude toward an adult stranger who had shown kind curiosity toward him and his statement-of-being.

Such is the reward, I have discovered, of interactive street photography.