never assume

From an early age, I've always enjoyed people watching. As a result, most people thought I was severely shy (and I was). It seems that I was much more interested in watching and listening than I was talking to others. Unfortunately, those traits carried over into adulthood. Moreover, while I absolutely love being behind the camera...and even photographing other people, to ask a stranger if I could take their picture would be completely out of my comfort zone. Besides, my mother always told me not to talk to strangers.

Therefore, as a photographer, I am often left with only a photograph and my imagination to tell the story that I was too afraid to ask. For example, in the image above, I was a bit intimidated by this man walking down the street. He walked with such confidence, and yet the shirt wrapped around his head and muscular build was a bit frightening. I later found out that this man had been a burn victim and only wore the shirt around his head to avoid the hot sun.

I had a similar reaction when I saw pixolga's photo below. The high contrast black and white is quite captivating...and that puff of smoke really draws me in. I'm especially intrigued by the look on his face. I wonder what he's thinking about. I could easily assume a number of stories but as I've learned...you can never assume.

Until next time,
Ashley of Ramblings and Photos

La fumée by pixolga