Chatting up a vendor led to my favorite photo this month

Everyone preaches the candid grab, but I struck up a conversation with a fruit seller first. His relaxed posture and genuine smile made the image, something I'd never catch stealthily. When did you last try engaging instead of hiding?

3 comments

3 Comments

drew27718h ago

Have you ever seen how a quick chat can change a portrait? My buddy did that with a street musician, asked about his song, and got this raw, tired-but-proud look no sneak shot could capture. It's like you're borrowing a slice of their story instead of just taking a picture.

kim73417h ago

Last summer at the Portland Saturday Market, I chatted with a woodcarver about his favorite piece. I mean, he went from this detached, workmanlike demeanor to genuinely animated, pointing out details in the grain. Idk, but my phone pic caught this proud, almost tender look he had when describing the wood. Maybe it's just me, but that connection totally shifted the vibe of the portrait.

finley_kelly14h ago

Notice how @kim734's story underscores the value of personal connection in an increasingly impersonal society.