Photographing People

Out of all the things out there I can photograph, people are my favourite. Rather than ask people to pose with each other, say cheese or organise them before I photograph them, I prefer capturing them acting natural and not feeling forced. Below are 3 examples of this. I've taken photographs of my friends since I got my first camera phone. Anytime we were out at each others houses, out for a walk - anywhere, anytime! My computer was (still is) full of those types of photographs. I must admit most of the time they got pretty pissed off, no wonder though who needs some madman documenting them at every opportunity?! I still continue to record my life through photographs to this day, I believe it's a very important thing to do. Who knows when your memory is gonna begin fading and fading and eventually you can't remember what you did last weekend? Well not to worry because Martin has a 13 images of you eating a meal at that restaurant you went to last Saturday! In all seriousness though, the main reason I have taken so many photographs over the years is probably because of my Mum and Dad. They done a great job recording me and my siblings childhood. One of my favourite things to do is sit down with a box of old photos and home videos. My wish is to look back at my photographs not only for my pleasure, but for my children's! Even if that's the last thing they want - they will sit down and watch my life re-told through hundreds and thousands of photographs form my childhood. Back on point - here are those 3 photographs :

This one is of my friend Calum. It was taken in Krakow Square, Poland earlier this year in July. As I said above I prefer photographing people without them knowing (not intending to sound creepy) as I feel I can capture their true selves, or rather an unfiltered version of themselves. We were sitting down to beers and sandwiches as we had just arrived and Calum lit up a rolled cigarette. The light hitting the right side of his face, arm and hand works well and contrasts with his dark t shirt. I also like how his sunglasses cover his eyes, I think it gives a little mystery to the image as whatever his  feelings were at the point this photograph was taken are slightly less obvious.

As it was my sisters turn to wash the dishes that night, I decided to put the opportunity to good use and photograph her. My kitchen window faces the back garden so I went out and sat on the grass so I could see my sister through the window. At first, looking through the lens I couldn't find her face but when I did she looked straight up at me with this deathly stare. I love how the reflection of the bright green grass is able to be seen in the window. It almost makes it look like a floating mouth, nose and pair of eyes. 

This last one of my Granny is interesting. I can't remember whether she annoyed or just listening very intently.. who knows. Either way I like how the background of the house and hills are out of focus and the foreground is so clear and in focus. I took a few but the exposure was all messed up on the first couple, so this was the only one I managed to get right. Luckily the conversation she as having with my Mum went on a while so I was given ample opportunity to play about with settings.