Moad
Within seconds of getting out of my car I saw Moad. His swagger got my attention fast. But before I could say anything he walked right past me into a store on Queen street. I was upset because he would have been so great to photograph. I was also relieved because he looked tough and sometimes the tough looking dudes want nothing to do with photos or strangers (or at least that’s what I keep telling myself).
I stood there for a moment disappointed that I missed my opportunity … and then somehow Moad popped his head out of the store and started walking towards me. This was my chance. I had to move quickly because Moad is the type of dude that walks fast.
I said hi and asked if he was down for me to take a few photos. He was reluctant, but I saw a smile in his eyes that told me there was a chance.
We chatted for a few minutes and before I knew it we were in an alleyway taking photos.
99.99% of strangers I photograph never ask me to see the photos on the spot, but he did. I showed him the photos and he liked them. That smile in his eyes grew bigger.
Then I put my camera down and we started walking down the street together. I thought we were done shooting, but out of nowhere Moad said “I always wanted to get a good photo with my car." His beautiful car just happened to be parked right next to us on the street. So of course I said “let’s go!!”
I loved that he wanted to take more photos. The photos of him and his car always put a smile on my face.
Once again, this experience taught me that going up to strangers and asking to take their photos is not a bother, but a gift.
Before this shoot my metric for success was how many great photos can I take in a day. After this shoot my new metric changed to how many strangers can I get to smile, even if that smile happens as they say “no thank you” and walk away.
