Which Photo Would You Choose?

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Today when I was working on my post about 79 year old Rose, I had a choice to make. I had taken a number of photographs of her, and had to decide which ones to use. I generally keep my photos pretty free of editing. I want to present the most respectful and inspiring images possible, in order to stay true to the spirit of my subjects. It’s interesting how the turn of a head, a hand on the hip,or subtle shift in weight can change the mood of a photo.
When I approach an outstanding lady or gentleman, I always start by giving them a compliment, and then ask if I can take their photo. I prefer to let them pose in which ever way feels most comfortable, only coaching them when they ask for a little help. I like to take photos that are full of vitality and spirit. The men and women I photograph are full of life and it’s my duty to convey this in each photo I take. If you were to post one of the photos above, which would you choose and why?

A Long Line of Presentation

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I ran into Rose near central park this past weekend.She shared some of the knowledge that she has acquired over the past 79 years. Rose told me, ” There was always a long line of presentation. Not one item should outdo another. The pieces should compliment one another, to create one complete picture. This is how it used to be,there was an elegance before. We were working towards the face, everything was meant to flatter the face.”
When I asked her why she wears gloves, she simply responded,” To protect my hands.”

Hair Style

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I love the way many older women pay great attention to their hair styles.For me this is a sign of vitality and spirit. Both my grandmothers would have their hair blown dry and set, a few times a week. It wasn’t until my grandma Bluma’s final few months that she cared little about her appearance. When Bluma was sick I used to comb her hair back and bring the mirror to her. She would smile every time. Style is not only the clothes we put on, but how we carry and present ourselves.

I stopped the woman above while she was walking uptown with her daughter. I asked if I could take her picture and her daughter remarked, ” I was just telling her how beautiful she is. Everywhere we go people stop her. She has a spark in her.”

Get Photographed for the Advanced Style Book and Join our Summer Salons at MAD

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Debra Rapoport, like many of the women on Advanced Style, is a fan of recyclable fashion. She shops at thrift stores, reinvents what she already has in her closet, and uses recycled materials to make the most amazing accessories. This summer The Museum of Arts and Design has teamed up with Advanced Style to present a series of creative salon sessions. Join Debra and I for our next salon Saturday, July 23rd.She will demonstrate how to make warm weather clutches, bags, pouches, and purses out of a range of recycled materials.
I am working hard to finish up the photos for my upcoming book and thought this might be a great day to take some photos. If you know anyone who would be a great subject for Advanced Style bring them by MAD on Saturday July 23rd. We will be having fun and taking pictures all day, so please stop on by and say hello.Keep track of all Advanced Style happenings on Facebook HERE.
You can find more details HERE and enjoy the videos of Debra below!
Program Details
Saturday, July 23, 2011 – 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Free with Museum Admission
6th floor – classroom, MAD