365 Day People Picture Project - Week 17

We're finished with week 17 of the 365 Day People Picture Project! This has been one of my favorite weeks so far.  I didn't make any measurable progress in the quality of my pictures, but I met such interesting people!  I've realized this project has become more about meeting new people, and opening up and connecting with others,  than it is about photography.  I have a lot to learn when it comes to improving the quality of the pictures I take, but I'm pleased with the progress I'm making in my ability and desire to open up and connect with others.  I hope this project may have inspired you to put yourself out there and strike up a conversation with a stranger!

Day 113 - Matt

Matt is a bartender at the Hawthorne Theatre, where my neighbor kids' band had a show on Sunday.

I had been hearing  them practice in their garage all summer long, and from down the street, they were sounding pretty good!  Especially for being just kids! When I learned they were playing an actual show, I decided that I had to check them out in person since I had been listening from down the street for months.

It was an all ages show and when I walked into the theatre, I realized I was the oldest person there.  I was a tad early and feeling way too old to be hanging out with a bunch of kids.  To pass the time, I left the theatre and headed to the bar where I nursed a diet pepsi with lemons and waited for an interesting person to come in so I could ask to take their picture.

Turns out, Matt was that interesting-looking person!  When I asked him the happiest thing happening in his life, he replied, "I'm writing again and happy to get back into it."  I also asked Matt about his hopes and dreams.  He considered the question for a while and finally answered that he dreams of being able to travel.

Day 114 - Kathryn the Librarian

Kathryn is usually working the desk whenever I go to the library. She always greets people with a friendly smile when they come to her floor.

I've had to ask for her help with one thing or another, but this time, I only asked if she would be willing to help with my picture project.  She agreed.

I asked Kathryn about the happiest thing happening in her life and she replied, "…that my daughter is loving being a freshman in college."  Her daughter's happiness gives her happiness.  I also asked Kathryn what she dreams of.  She said, "I'm living the dream."  She explained that she actually switched careers to become a librarian.  That would explain why she's always happy and friendly!

Day 115 - Tyson Kelly and George Krikes, of the band, King Washington

At the recommendation of my new blogger friend, Kathy Rasmussen, I decided to check out Crash Kings and the band who opened for them, King Washington. They played a show at the White Eagle on Tuesday and they didn't disappoint!

Both bands put on a great show!  Although it wasn't as heavily attended as I was expecting, it only added to the positive vibe.  I have a feeling this was both the first and last opportunity that I'll ever have to catch either band in such an intimate setting.

My intention that night was to just ask a show-goer to be the person of the day, but after listening and watching King Washington, they felt more like friends than touring rock stars. They were just so funny and personable!  After King Washington played and before Crash Kings started,  I headed to the merch table to buy a CD and ask one of the guys if they'd be willing to let me take their picture for this project.  Both Tyson and George agreed to let me take their picture.

I could just tell you that I haven't stopped listening to the CDs since that night and leave this post just like it is.  I've been debating all week on whether or not to tell you the rest because it's just so ridiculous.  But, you've been with me this far, I figure I may as well tell you the rest of the ridiculous story. Please keep in mind, this could have been absolutely nothing more than my imagination or the fact that I'm way past due for an eye exam.  Or, it could have been a really freaky experience. I'll just let you decide.  Oh, and just to clarify things - I don't drink, so what happened is in no way related to having had "tii many martoonis."

Here goes…wait. No. I'm not going to tell you this.  Ok…for reals this time.  Here goes…

So, just as I was trying to fit both Tyson and George in the frame and about to take the picture, a figure appeared next to Tyson. I figured it must have been a fan or another band member who popped into the photo.  I was a little stressed because it's a big struggle for me to get a good picture of two people, so I knew a third person was really going to make me blow my picture. When I looked up from the viewfinder, I couldn't figure out who could have been the photo-bomb culprit.  I quickly snapped another picture and it happened again!  I could see a figure, but there wasn't anybody there! My mind was racing to try to problem-solve.  This was all happening so quickly but the thought popped into my head that I had messed up some of the camera settings when I was experimenting earlier with taking no-flash pictures in a concert setting. (Taking pictures of my bedroom curtain with the lights off.)  Then another thought popped into my head…the White Eagle is famous for being haunted! Perhaps the figure was a "ghost"?  With that thought, I was able to relax knowing that I hadn't completely messed up my camera and I snapped one final picture - the one you see here.

I was so curious to get home and check out the images on the computer to see if the camera captured any of the figure that was trying to photo-bomb our picture…but of course, there was nothing.

I told my friend about my ghost story and she asked if I had said anything to the guys as I was taking their picture. I told her, "no way! I didn't want them to think I'm crazy!" We then laughed and joked about what I could have said, "oh, I need to take another picture because there's a ghost leaning over your shoulder."

See, I told you I didn't want to tell you this.  I think I should probably make an appointment for my eye exam now, but it's also kind of fun to believe that a "ghost" tried to photo-bomb my little project.

If you get a chance, do check out both bands!  (Their tour together will be ending soon.)

Day 116 - Kelly

Kelly and I were next to each other in the very long line at the mall Starbucks.  She looked like she would be a nice person so I turned around and asked if she would let me take her picture.  I called it right! She was super nice and agreed to be day 116.

I asked Kelly the happiest thing going on in her life right now and she responded, "my family is all happy and healthy."

Day 117 - Al

This is Al.  Big Al.  Al doesn't say much, but he doesn't have to.  You can just tell he's sort of a gentle giant and a big teddy bear.

When I asked Al the happiest thing going on in his life, he replied, "I'm breathing. I'm alive."  Good answer, Al!  It really is as simple as that.

Al was actually my second subject for the day.  Earlier, I had met a man on the street named Dave.  He was so nice and it was absolutely freezing when he stopped to let me take his picture.  We knew he was blinking when the flash would go off, but I thought I had a picture that could pass for a cute "wink".  After looking at it again, I was just too worried it was unflattering and more like a blink than a wink, so I opted to find a back-up subject which was Al.  Dave, if you happen to read this, I'm sorry I didn't get a good picture. Thank you for taking the time with me and good luck with your new job!

Day 118 - Kelly (two Kelly's in one week!)

Kelly is another one of those people who just brightens up the place!  She reminds me of a movie star but she's actually an electrician!  I guess you could say that she literally brightens up the place!

When I asked Kelly about the happiest thing going on in her life, she replied, "happy?"  After thinking about it for a while, she said, "let's just say that I'm fascinated with Chicago."

Sometimes, I struggle with how much to share of my interactions with the people in this project. I explain to people that I'm going to instagram their picture and then post it to the blog with a recap, but I don't want to share too many personal details out of respect for the people who have agreed to let me take their picture.

I will just share that during a terribly sad experience, Kelly also had a very positive thing happen when she had to return to Chicago to attend her father's funeral.  It can be so confusing and ironic how life can give us sorrow at the very same time it gives us love and joy.

Day 119 - Lynn of Mod Haus

Lynn is a fascinating woman and the owner of the new boutique in Downtown Vancouver, called Mod Haus.

I was heading down to the park to find a subject but I knew my chance of finding someone was going to be slim because of the freezing temperature.  I lucked out and happened to park right next to Mod Haus.  When I looked in the window and saw Lynn, she was just impossible to pass by!

I went into the shop, explained the project and asked if she would be willing to let me take her picture. Lynn agreed.  I absolutely love her style!  From head to toe, Lynn is amazing. Her clothing was vintage but she accessorized with both new and vintage jewelry.

I wouldn't be surprised if Lynn has done some modeling in her past, because she was completely comfortable with having her picture taken.  I'm pretty disappointed in myself though.  Lynn is a beautiful woman, we were in her beautiful shop, and she gave me all the time in the world.  I should have done better!  That's ok, it's all the more reason for you to go check out Mod Haus personally!

Mod Haus is part vintage and part new apparel at discounted prices.  Seriously, the prices are incredible!  Even better than the price - is Lynn's personal service.  I can just imagine women going in to the shop looking "normal" and after Lynn is through styling them, they come out looking fabulous and with a newly defined personal style of their very own.

Lynn comes from a family of artists and to me, the thought with which she puts herself together could also be considered art.  She told me about her previous shop in the Seattle area and her move here to Vancouver. I could have visited with her for hours.  When I asked about the happiest thing happening in her life, Lynn replied, "living close to family."  Her move to Vancouver has her now in closer proximity to the rest of her family.

I snapped a few pictures of the shop but I'm not happy with the quality, so I'm just going to encourage you to visit the boutique for yourself.  The prices are incredible and Lynn is amazing.  She has a great mix of new and vintage and you'll walk out of there looking like a million bucks and feeling even better because of how little you had to spend to get your new look. Mod Haus is right across from Ester Short Park and around the corner from Starbucks.  I hope you'll go in to meet Lynn for yourself and find some treasures. I know I'm definitely going back!

If you have been a subject this week, or any week, thank you!  I appreciate you and feel privileged that you let me take your picture.

Thank you for following along with the project!  I anticipate that next week could possibly be 7 pictures of people bundled up in scarves and beanies!  I hope you're staying warm and cozy wherever you are!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 16

Week 16 of the 365 Day People Picture Project is now behind us! If you remember from last week, I had the intention to instruct this week's subjects to try Peter Hurley's "squinch" technique.  Circumstances were such that I was only able to introduce the "squinch" to one subject this week. However, that one subject was nearly perfect!  I think even Peter Hurley would be pleased!

Day 106 - Runner with Dog

I  had just finished an easy 7 mile walk when I ran into this guy and his dog.  I could tell he was in a hurry but I couldn't tell if he was starting his run or just about to drive away, so I asked, "are you coming or going?"  He replied that he was going for a run, so then I asked if I could take his picture for my picture project.  He agreed and said, "my wife is a photographer. I understand."  I'm always so happy when people "get it" and don't think it's weird for a complete stranger to ask them for their picture.

After I explained the project, he shared that his wife also did her own Project 365.  He said she missed a few days here and there, but she did it for an entire year. Her project wasn't limited to just pictures of people.  I'm amazed that I've already encountered a few people who've done their own 365 Day Project, or are close to someone who has. It's encouraging and inspiring.  It makes me feel like I can make it!

You know by now that I have a really hard time with people-with-dog pictures.  Well, I missed this one too.  The guy was doing his best to direct his dog and being that his wife has probably taken hundreds of pictures of the two of them, he successfully "posed" the dog.  I was so focused on watching for the perfect moment to catch the dog, I didn't even notice that it wasn't a flattering picture of the guy.  This was a first - the dog nailed it, but I blew the shot of the human! It's usually the other way around.

I didn't want to delay him any more than I already had, so I didn't ask him the "what's the happiest thing going on in your life" question.

Day 107 - Peter

One of my Instagram friends summed it up perfectly when she commented, "those eyes!"

Peter had just put on his helmet and was unlocking his bike when I approached him outside of a grocery store.  After explaining the project, he agreed to let me take his picture.  I could have totally mis-read him, but I have a feeling that Peter is a fairly shy guy, so it makes me appreciate him even more, knowing that it was probably a bit of an effort for him to allow me to take his picture.

When I asked him  the happiest thing in his life, I could tell he was giving it some serious thought.  I wanted to alleviate some pressure, so I told him it could be simple and that one guy said "doughnuts."  We laughed and then he was able to tell me his answer…"cats."

Day 108 - John

I had to make a quick trip to my mechanic on Tuesday. It was near closing time so I was the only customer there. When they finished with my car, I asked if one of them would be willing to let me take their picture for my project and they all pretty much pointed to one another, saying "he'll do it" and then everyone scattered except for one guy.  I asked the one remaining mechanic if he'd let me take his picture and he jokingly said it would blow his cover with the witness protection program. He then walked away and came back a few moments later with John who following right behind.

Turns out…John is the new guy!  I just love my mechanic.  Not only are they great to work with, but they even "volunteer" the new guy to help me with my project!

When I asked John about the happiest thing going on in his life, he replied "working here and skateboarding."

Day 109 - Zach

Zach is another co-worker.  You met his cousin, Griffin,  back on day 79.  Until that day, the day his cousin was a subject, we probably hadn't said more than a dozen words to one another.  Zach is always working hard and when we do happen to pass one another on the production floor, we usually just exchange a polite hello.

Again, I could have been completely misreading him but I always thought he must be shy, so it means a lot that he agreed to let me take his picture.

I've noticed that I can get extremely nervous when I take the picture of a friend or acquaintance.  There have been a few times where I've felt more nervous and uncomfortable taking pictures of friends, than I have felt when taking the picture of a complete stranger.

I started to get a little nervous when we started shooting, but I decided to tell Zach about the "squinch" and asked if he could try it. I gave him the instructions just like Peter Hurley explains in his video.  I was put at ease when Zach simply did exactly what I was trying to explain.  It wasn't weird for him, and unlike with my girlfriends, it didn't turn into a huge giggle-fest.  He just did it. And, he totally nailed it!  Zach looks like he could be a model!

My nervousness and insecurity disappeared and his shyness disappeared and the result was a great picture with the perfect amount of "squinch."  (technically speaking, I'm sure I've done a hundred things wrong in this photo but overall - I'm pleased with Zach's picture.)

When I asked Zach about the happiest thing in his life, he replied, "skateboarding."  I told him that was the same answer given by the person the day before.  He also said that he's happy that he moved into a new house.  (Zach also sent out a little code message  - "SRP")

Day 110 - Mark

I was so happy when I woke up bright and early on Thanksgiving morning.  I knew if I hurried, I would be able to get ready and leave the house in time to get to my favorite trail in time for "golden hour."

I was nearly to the trail when I spotted Mark pulled off the side of the road.  He had his tripod set up and he was taking pictures of the sun, rising over Mt. Hood.  I pulled over and asked if I could take pictures of him taking pictures!  I explained the project and he agreed to let me take his picture.

Mark is just now getting back into photography after having taken a break for many years. He took 3 years of photography in high school and loved it and was re-introduced when he got a new camera for Christmas last year.

I enjoyed visiting with him and hearing about his accomplishments.  He won 3 awards last year in the Clark County Fair and he encouraged me to look into making a submission.  (I'm not ready for that, but I appreciated his advice and encouragement.)  I felt bad that I may have been interrupting Mark's time and space, but he seemed pretty welcoming and even gave me a few pointers.

When I asked Mark the happiest thing going on in his life right now, he didn't hesitate when he replied, "photography."  He's enjoying it after being away for a while.

I was going to share a picture of Mt. Hood and the sunrise that we were watching/shooting, but my photos were not worthy of sharing with you.

I did get this shot just a few miles down the road from where I met Mark and I think it's worthy of sharing with you.  My favorite little trail is the 7 miles (3.5 mile out-and-back) along this beautiful lake. Several of the subjects in this project have been runners whom I've met at the trail head.

The next day, I headed down the same road where I found Mark on Thanksgiving morning and there he was again, shooting Mt. Hood and the beautiful sunrise. It made me happy knowing that he was doing something that made him happy.

Day 111 - Vera

After seeing Mark on the side of the road again, I continued on down the road to my second favorite lake trail which is where I found Vera.  It was an absolutely beautiful morning and Vera was fishing.  I observed her cast her line and  the way the light hit her, I could only make out a silhouette.  I was on my way to do another loop around the lake when I thought that I should ask if she would be day 111. I was hesitant to interrupt her because she looked so peaceful, and also because my camera was back at my car.  My grandma was a fisherwoman and I think she often fished alone when she was alive.  I thought, for my Grandma, I really needed to ask Vera if I could take her picture.

When I approached Vera and gave her my spiel, she told me that I'd have to slow down. She explained she's Russian and her English isn't so good. It took us some time, but she agreed to let me take her picture.

When I asked Vera the happiest thing happening in her life, again, she reminded me that I needed to go a little slower. So, I simplified the question and just asked her, "what makes you happy?" Vera replied, "my children" and "the natural," as she gestured to the beauty around us. I know she meant that she liked spending time in nature.

Vera hadn't yet caught anything that morning.   After we had taken the pictures, she decided to pack up and head to a different spot around the lake.  I don't know if she caught anything later, but I vote her the best-dressed fisherwoman in the entire state!

Day 111 Bonus - Alice

I ran into Alice as I was leaving the park.  We stopped and visited for a while.  She told me about her walking group, which I tried to invite myself to join, but she said it was for seniors. (but anyone is welcome!) Sounds like a very impressive group of seniors!  They walk every morning and 4 of their members are in their 90's!

After talking a few minutes, I explained the picture project to Alice and that I had just taken a picture of Vera, but asked if she would be willing to be my bonus for the day. Alice agreed.

Alice is retired but she was a librarian for many years.  I asked how many books she's read.  She's read so many that she's lost count but she has averaged about a book a week for several years.

Between walking and reading, Alice is about as sharp as it gets!  She asked more about the project and I explained that I post the pictures once a week on my blog.  She asked the name of the blog. Having forgotten my cards, I explained that it is a play on the word miscellanea, but with 2 S's.  She immediately said, "oh, it's "Miss Ellanea!"  I was impressed! I think it takes people a few moments for miscellanea to register as "Miss Ellanea," but she caught on in an instant!

I asked Alice the happiest thing in her life, she replied, "my grandkids and my walking group."  Alice has 14 grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

I enjoyed meeting both Vera and Alice and hope to run into them again some day.

Day 112 - Jenavieve

I didn't get to meet my friend Anne tonight, but instead, I met Scott, from day 83.  Between the two of them, I no longer have to worry when it starts to get late in the evening and I still haven't found a subject for the day. They both help me out when I find myself in a bind.

I had messaged Scott to find out his location and when he responded back, he told me he had already found someone…a birthday girl.

When I arrived, Jenavieve was outside and we struck up a conversation instantly.  I hadn't realized that she was the person Scott had already lined up, and she didn't realize I was the person who Scott had told her about.  I guess it was just meant for Jenavieve to be day 112, even without Scott's assist.

When I asked Jenavieve the happiest thing going on in her life, she replied "family and friends."  I really needed a recorder to accurately quote everything else. I couldn't take notes fast enough to keep up with all of her great insight.  Jenavieve also feels blessed that the right people have been placed in her life, right when she needs them the most.  She went on to say that "you never know when you're going to meet someone who could change your life."  I agreed, as I've become well aware of this in the 112 days I've been doing this project.

Jenavieve is right-on in her thinking.  The people I've met through this project have changed my life and we're not even half-way through yet.  It has been a pleasure and an honor to be allowed into people's lives and to then be able to share that experience with you.

If you've been a subject in this project, thank you for letting me take your picture.  I feel indebted to you.

Thank you for following along so far.  It's been a fun journey and I'm glad you're joining me.  Every morning, I wake up wondering who I'm going to meet & shoot that day.  A few friends have shared with me that they also look forward to seeing who I'm going to meet. Hearing that others are sharing in the curiosity is just about the greatest feedback and encouragement that I could ever hope for.

Thank you!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 15

Week 15 of the 365 Day Picture Project is now complete! If you're just checking in for the first time, this project is just a challenge I've given myself.  I'm not a photographer.  This is all very new to me and I'm just learning as I go along.

The challenge is to take a picture of a person, every day, for a year.  Each picture is taken fresh daily.  I'm not stockpiling pictures.  The majority of the subjects have been strangers but also included are co-workers, friends and family.

I post the pictures daily to Instagram and if you'd like to follow along, my username is @missellanea and the project is tagged #365daypeoplepictureproject.

Day 99 - Jessica

I found the person of the day fairly early on Sunday but I hadn't sat down to Instagram the picture until I was nearly ready for bed. Once I looked at the pictures, I was shocked at how badly I had blown it!  I had to change back out of my jammies in order to go back out into the world to find another subject.

I ventured as far as the convenience store down the street.  I was so happy when I pulled into the parking lot and could make out an interesting-looking person working at the counter.  I approached the register, told Jessica about the project, and she agreed to be day 99.

When I asked Jessica about the happiest thing going on in her life right now,  she replied, "hmmm, what's the date today?"  I thought it was cute that she had taken the question so seriously.  After determining the date, she then said, "today is my 4 month anniversary."  She and her husband were married exactly 4 moths earlier.

Day 100 - Malcolm

 

We hit triple digits on Monday!  This felt like a huge milestone for me, even though we still have a long way to go to get 365 days. I wanted an extra special picture to mark 100 days.  I left early that morning so that I could take my time and find a subject before work.  Traffic derailed my good intentions, so I was going to have to look for a subject after work, in the dark.

When I left work that evening, I was trying to think where I could go to find someone, when suddenly, Malcolm comes walking down the sidewalk.  Yay!  There isn't a ton of foot traffic around my work so I was so happy to see someone and I'm glad that someone was Malcolm.

He was wearing headphones, so again, I had to work hard to get his attention.  I think I startled him!  I explained the project and he agreed without hesitation.

I asked Malcolm the best thing happening in his life right now and he replied, "music." Malcolm is a musician and he had just had a show that weekend.  He's happy whenever he gets to make music and since he's busy making music, he's happy. Keep an eye and an ear out for Wamba and 1000 Fuegos.  Malcolm is involved with both bands.

Day 101 - Curt

I was driving down the street, looking for a subject, when I looked over and saw Curt unlocking his bike on the sidewalk.  As fate would have it, he was very close to a parking space that was long enough for me to land in.  (yes, I've had to miss out on a few subjects because I'm such a terrible parallel-parker!)

When I approached Curt to be day 101, he agreed but then hesitated, asking if his picture would be on a site that he would be "ashamed of."  My poor feelings were crushed for a split second as I was thinking that my blog has beginner written all over it,  but I wouldn't say it was anything to be "ashamed of." My initial reaction to his question was was that he would check out the blog and call me out on needing  to spruce things up a bit with a graphic designer/web designer and that he would be ashamed of being on my work-in-progress blog. I laughed and was relieved when I realized that he meant that he didn't want to be on some sort of "People of Walmart" site where they're actually making fun of you and if your picture ends up on that site, you've basically been shamed.

When I asked Curt the best think happening in his life right now, he replied "finding his girlfriend."  They've been together 6 months and she's treating him well.  I loved to watch him talk about his girlfriend because I could see the sparkle in his eyes and I could just see the happiness on his face.  He's also happy because he has his first solo art show coming up.

Did you notice…NO GLASSES GLARE!!!  Progress!

Day 102 - Brandy

Brandy and I work in the same neighborhood. We've known each other for about 10 years.

I stopped by her work to ask if she would be in the project. I could tell she really wanted to say no, but she's just too nice! I think she and I are of the same mindset.  If a friend asked if they could take my picture, I'd really want to help them, but I'd be so conflicted because of how intensely I dislike having my picture taken.  I'm glad Brandy let me take her picture.

Brandy and I were giggling so much because I had just watched Peter Hurley's new "It's all about the Squinch" video and I was excited to implement this new technique.  Our attempt at the "squinch" was more blink meets scrunch, but at least we were having fun!

I forgot to ask Brandy the question!  I'm just going to have to do my best to give you the answer I think she would give.  Brandy has a great group of friends. She's always out camping or having a fabulous home-cooked dinner with her friends.

Day 103 - Guy #1, Mysterious Shadow, Guy #3, and Dave

I bumped into these guys on the sidewalk and asked if they would be in my project.  They were all in!  As soon as I asked, I realized I may be in over my head. I've only taken "group photos" one other time and it wasn't pretty.

These guys were a blast!  They had me cracking up the whole time! I made some mistakes but given that I don't know how to take a good group picture and I was laughing and having too much fun, we did okay.

I will learn from my mistakes and will know better next time.  I was so concerned with making sure that Dave fit in the frame, that I nearly cut out Guy #1 on several of the shots.  I could have filled the frame a little better, but I'll know next time.

The best thing happening in their lives right now:

Guy #1 - I'm just going to paraphrase and say that he's traveling.  We had a complicated conversation that can be simplified by saying that he's happy about traveling.

Dark Shadow - He was happy they were on their way to get something to eat!

Guy 3 - "Being on the West Coast."  I should have asked where these guys were from, but I was cracking up and forgot to do my job properly!

Dave - "Getting engaged."  Dave had just recently proposed to his fiancé!

Day 104 - Julie

I made arrangements with Anne to meet up again on Friday.  When I arrived, she wasn't there but I ran into Scott from day 83.  I think Scott was working to take Anne's place as my friday night Talent Scout assistant.  Within minutes, he had found 3 or 4 subjects for me to choose from.

I decided the week needed another woman, so Scott then asked his friend Julie to be in the project.   Gosh!  This was an "easy" day!  Scott did all of the work for me!

Julie dreams of owning her own restaurant someday.  When I asked about the best thing happening in her life right now, she replied, "being single" and her "two kids."

Julie was a natural.  I ended up with a couple pictures that looked more like ads in a magazine!  I opted to show you this picture instead, because the others were a little too posed.

Day 105 - Debbie

Debbie is one of my dearest friends.  It was her birthday last night and we all went out to celebrate.

We've known each other over half our lives and she was a huge influence on my life.  I learned the meaning of work ethic from Debbie and my Mom.  Debbie has been working since the day I met her. I don't think it was my parents who told me in high school that I needed to go out and get a job - I'm pretty sure it was Debbie!

It was also Debbie who taught me to do your best, work hard, then once you're finished with work, go out and do your best to play hard too!

Debbie  has turned into quite the cook!  So much so, that I keep encouraging her (borderline obnoxiously pushing her) to start her own cooking blog some day.  She already has the domain name and everything, it's just a matter of time. (Which I can completely understand.)  I recently had to send her an urgent text because I had misplaced the recipe she had given me for her perfect Alfredo sauce.  It had been so long since I made it, I had forgotten the proper amount of ingredients and the order in which to cook them.  Debbie gave me the quick instructions and then gave explicit direction to "love the sauce."  That's why she's such an excellent cook!  She really does add love to her meals, and then she feeds it to us. That explains why I always leave her place with a full belly and a full heart.

We really had to work hard to get a picture.  I wanted to get a perfect picture for her birthday and Debbie had also given me the expectation that she wanted me to take the very best picture that had ever been taken of her in her entire life.  No pressure or anything!!  I think we were both demanding a lot from ourselves and it resulted in a lot of laughs, a little bit of the scoldings that you can only say to a best friend, and the best picture ever taken of our other friend Becki, Debbie's step sister Jenny, and just about anyone else there, except for Debbie!  I'm just kidding, we did actually end up with a few nice pictures.  My favorite picture that I've ever taken (below) is actually one of Debbie and Becki together. My two best friends, together, laughing. It was a perfect day.

Part of the reason that Debbie and I were having so much difficulty in getting a picture last night, is that not only did I want her to work the "sqinch", but I also wanted her to give me the "slightly curious turtle" which is the name I've given for Peter Hurley's other technique that I picked up from his video, "It's all about the Jawline."  

We were "squinching" and "slightly curious turtling" and laughing and laughing!  I was basically using my poor dear friend as practice on how to direct future subjects. We do much better together when I'm just getting candids rather than giving her any direction. In our relationship, I'm not the director and Debbie isn't the follow-the-directionser.  It is the opposite!

In the midst of all of our silliness, I remembered to ask Debbie about the happiest thing going on in her life right now. Her response, "this…this right now is what makes me happy."  She was surrounded by friends and family and we all love her!  If someone would have asked me that same question at that moment, my response would have been the very same thing.

Moving into next week, I'm going to continue practicing the "squinch."  Peter Hurley is amazing and he presents things in such a way that it makes you believe you could actually learn to take nice pictures.  He's dynamic and energetic and I get a huge boost of enthusiasm just watching his videos. Here's his newest video. Even if you're not interested in learning how to take better pictures of others, this video is an excellent tip on how to "give" better pictures!  Plus, you'll be able to spot the "squinch" in future subjects and in other photos you see.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ff7nltdBCHs

Thank you for continuing to follow along!  I know your time is valuable and it is an honor that you've shared a little bit of that time with me and this project.

If you've been a subject in this project, thank you.  Thank you for your time, thank you for being you, and thank you for sharing your beautiful self with us.

Have a great week!

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 14

Week 14 of the 365 Day People Picture Project feels like it flew by in a flash, even though my goal was to spend more time with each subject in the hopes of learning a glimpse of their lives and sharing it with you. The same friend who had given me the suggestion last week to write more about each person, followed up with me this week with an idea on how to actually implement this. Having reached the same conclusion myself, I knew we were both on the right track.  Randy suggested that I should think of a few go-to questions and have them in my mind and at the ready.  I told him that I was thinking the same thing and the question that I was going to use for the week would be, "what is the happiest/best thing happening in your life right now?"

I started the week eager to learn about the best thing happening in the lives of the next 6 people in this project. (I didn't get to ask this question of Sunday's subject because, well, you'll see in a moment.) Having a canned question may seem artificial but it's quite the contrary.  Being prepared with a question has the potential to lead to a very organic interaction.

Some of the interactions this week were still quite brief, even with my "canned question," but I'm going to continue with this idea as it seems the only logical way to smooth over the interaction I have with each subject. It gives me a little more confidence to be able to interact with each person and because I'm prepared and confident, each subject will also feel confident and more at ease in the conversation.  Although the question is "canned," each interaction will be organic and unique to each person.

Day 92 - Dr. Tram

I love that my Dentist is open on evenings and weekends!  Knowing I would be seeing the dentist over the weekend, I had been envisioning this picture in my mind since the day I made the appointment.  My normal Dentist had the day off and this was my first time seeing Dr. Tram, but she was still cool and paused long enough to let me take her picture.

The shiny, blurry thing in the right corner is a mirror.  I'll tell ya…this shot was a lot more difficult in real life than I envisioned it being in my mind!  And, for obvious reasons, Dr. Tram and I didn't get to visit much about anything other than the business at hand.

Day 93 - Troy

This is Troy from Kansas.  Troy is a new co-worker.  I noticed he was at work well after he normally gets off his shift.  He was working on some personal things and it gave me the perfect opportunity to learn a little about the new guy.  (I think I've mentioned before, we're pretty good about keeping on-task at work so unless we spend time outside of work, we don't always learn a whole lot about each other.)

Troy is a graphic designer.  He wanted to move to Portland because of the skateboard and snowboard scene which Portland is well known for.  He googled "screen printers in Portland" and then basically began to stalk us!  I love his persistence and determination!  With so many people looking for work, it is easy for your resume to get lost among hundreds of other applicants.

Troy was persistent, followed up several times and eventually caught the attention of the owner and production manager and he's now part of our team!  (Although, not in the art department.) That's the awesome thing about Troy…he wanted to move to Portland and work with us, so he took the one job available which was in the screen reclaim department.  Although it is critical to the function of the entire company, it is not a glamorous job and it's one of the most difficult jobs in the entire process of screen printing.  But it was a start and it enabled him to make the move.

He's since moved into the Ink Department where he helps mixes the colors for every single job that gets printed.  Although he's not yet utilizing his skill as a designer, all of this experience will make him a better and stronger designer in the future.  I just love that he was willing to do whatever it took in order to move to Portland.  When I asked him the best thing happening right now, he replied "I got a car, a new job, and I'm enjoying Portland!"

Day 94 - "Like a Fox"

This was an off-day. "Like a Fox" was a great subject and he saved the night because he was actually a "plan b."  I had been rejected 2 times before finding a great subject.  We were seriously on-the-go when I took his picture because he was running late for a dinner appointment. After he left, I realized that every picture I had taken was unflattering.  I managed to catch him blinking in every single picture.  We laughed because I knew a few of the pictures were mid-blink and he even told me he blinks a lot!  I thought I captured a good one, but I was mistaken.

So, I went back on the hunt again.  I got my third rejection for the night and was feeling defeated and that's when I found "Like a Fox."  He happily agreed to let me take his picture as he was waiting for his bus.

When I asked him the best thing happening right now, he replied, "I just paid off my pre-order for the new Xbox One."  (which are due out on November 22nd.)  His "Like a Fox" name is actually his online name.  I told him I had just heard in the news that due to an error, some people had already been shipped the new Xbox and maybe he was one of those people.  I don't think you're supposed to give a gamer that sort of false hope. For a split second, I could tell that he was processing the possibility of whether or not he could be one of those lucky people who received their shipment early.

When I got home, I realized that all of "Like a Fox's" pictures were showing a little glasses glare.  I was so bummed!  I had one picture which had the potential to be among my favorites so far, except for the darn glare!  I don't know how to edit the photo to fix the glare and I'm learning that glasses glare is  a big challenge that I need to learn how to compensate for.  This was the least problematic picture I had taken. (I really wish I could have shared the other one with you.)

In spite of the glare, I hope you can get a feel for how nice "Like a Fox" comes across. He may be "Like a Fox" in online gaming, but in real life, he's more "like a puppy."

Day 95 - Taylor and John

 

I have to admit, this was one of the days where I felt like abandoning the project.  Training for, and completing, 4 marathons has taught me one thing…I know how to quiet the negative thoughts of self-doubt and when those thoughts tell me that I should stop, I've learned how to push myself to keep going.  So, somehow I found myself out on the street and looking for a subject even though I was ready to call it quits.

This was another interaction that was simply meant to be.  As it would turn out, Taylor is a real photographer!  She's even done her own 365 Day Project!  She was full of helpful tips and encouragement and meeting her and John was perfect! They were also waiting for a bus so our time was brief but in that short amount of time, Taylor was so helpful and she gave me the boost I needed. I loved watching her talk about photography.  I could see the flicker in her eye as she spoke…it's something she's truly passionate about.  And, I appreciated that she didn't think less of me, or dismiss me, for being such an amateur.

When I asked Taylor and John the best thing happening in their lives, Taylor replied that she had had a great day because she spent it in the darkroom.  John's reply, "doughnuts!"  I like John's thinking!

Day 96 - Tony

This is Tony.  He was waiting for the MAX train to arrive.  This is one of my favorite pictures so far, and if I had snapped it just a fraction of a second later - the lights from the train would have been closer and I would have been able to better capture the "impending" and "temporary" feeling that we were experiencing.

Tony was  the second time this week that had to resort to "plan B".  After another two rejections, I had found a great subject who was on his way to band rehearsal at his church.  Luckily, I checked the pictures after he hopped on his train. I had failed.  This time, it was a combination of glasses-glare + blinking failure.  Dang, glasses are tough!  (Glasses and hats!)

After failing the first subject, I wandered around the MAX and bus stop in search of the next person.  I spotted Tony.  When I approached him, he was wearing ear phones so I had to work to get his attention to explain the project.   He agreed to let me take his picture so I started snapping away.

Knowing that I had to be quick, I asked him questions as I was taking his picture.  I was eagerly anticipating his answers to the  "what's the best thing happening in your life" question, but first I asked his name and if there's anything I could promote.  Just as soon as the words came out of my mouth, I could see the light from the train approaching us.  I interrupted my own question and asked if it was his train.  He confirmed that it was.

I knew I had a usable picture so I put the camera down and awaited his response as the train pulled into the station.  He was still giving me his attention as he slowly started to walk away to board the MAX, when he said, "peace, love and happiness…that's what I want to promote." And with that, he was gone and I was sad. I wanted more time. I wanted to learn the best thing happening in his life right now.

Day 97 - Makenzie

I'm starting to look forward to my Friday routine of meeting my friend Anne at Charlie's. It's still challenging to get a subject, but at least I know I'll be in someplace dry and warm and I'll have a friend close by to be with me as long as it takes to find someone.

As soon as I walked in, I spotted Makenzie.  She's another girl who's pretty impossible to miss.  I was torn if I should ask her because she was at a table with several friends and right behind her was a table of  a few of my favorite subjects - scruffy bearded guys who make for a great black & white. I know I need to push myself beyond my go-to black & white picture of scruffy bearded guy, and I also wanted to have one more girl for this week, so I decided that I would ask Makenzie to be day 97.

I interrupted her table, which is always awkward, and quickly gave my spiel. She agreed to be day 97 and among her friends, I could have several more subjects!  We laughed as we tried to decide if she was going to get her picture alone, or with one of her friends.

Makenzie has her own business and it's quite interesting. She's an esthetician and provides in-home waxing service!  I should have guessed this as she and her friends are the best-browed group of people in all of Vancouver.  (Even her guy friends!)  She obviously does great work!

When I asked about the best thing happening for her right now, she replied "working and waxing."  She went on to explain that she had just experienced a break-up that very same day, so concentrating on her work is helping her to be happy.  Gosh, you just never know what people are dealing with.  Makenzie put on a happy face and beautiful smile, surrounded herself with her great friends and was trying to make the best of things, even though she was probably feeling broken-hearted.  I loved her style, but I truly admire her attitude and approach to dealing with a sad time for her.  She still managed to light up the room, even though she was feeling down.

Makenzie is a class act and a beautiful girl  I didn't even do her justice in this picture.

Day 98 - Tim

My friends and I, all 8 of us, made a coffee stop at Brewed this afternoon.  Having basically slammed them them with all of our orders, I used the wait as an opportunity to find a subject.  I found Tim in the corner of the coffee shop. He was working away on something that looked extremely complex. Even without my glasses, I was able to glance down and see that the paper in front of him had some sort of hand-drawn diagram and complicated notes and possibly even math formulas.  Tim said he was in the coffee shop, catching up on some work.

When I asked Tim about the happiest thing going on in his life, his response was quick and certain, "my 1-year-old kid."  I don't know what Tim was working on, but he also wanted to promote the importance of supporting local businesses.

That's it for week 14!  We're going to hit the triple digits next week!  Woohoo!  I now often use a marathon as my yardstick for many other things in life.  When I compare the progress of the 365 Day People Picture Project to distance of a marathon, basically, we're almost to mile 8.  Still a long ways to go, but we've already covered some respectable distance.

If you remember last week, I was pretty touched by Nancy and Stephen.  Part of the "risk" of making a connection with someone is that when you do, they leave a little mark on your head and your heart and once you make that connection, it's impossible to sever. This has all been a little heavy for me to process.  Making a connection is work…opening up, letting someone in, them letting me in, taking a picture, and then trying to let go.   Even though I may never see these people again, I now still wonder about them, and wish them health and happiness.

I'm gong to continue to use the "what's the best thing happening in your life right now," question for this upcoming week.  I want to learn about good things happening for people,  Even if it is something as simple as doughnuts and Xboxes.  I love hearing about people and the ability to find happiness even in simple joys.  Can you think of any questions that would be great to add to the list of questions for potential subjects? What are you wanting to learn about them?

Thank you for spending this time with me and sharing in this project!  Have you started a project of your own?

If you have been a subject, thank you.  Thank you for being you and for letting me take your picture. You've touched my heart. Forever.

365 Day People Picture Project - Week 13

Can you believe it?  We're three months into the 365 Day People Picture Project!  Week 13 was feeling a little hollow as I was mentally preparing the summary that I wanted to share with you, but it ended on both a happy and heavy note. My co-worker and friend, Randy, remarked that he likes it when I share more information about each subject.  I agree with him!  I explained to him that I don't always learn a whole lot about the subjects in this project. Some of the interactions have been so brief, they're mere seconds.  It is for this reason that week 13 was feeling a little incomplete.  I didn't do a nice job of really connecting with each person and the majority of the interactions with this week's subjects were quite short.   That lack of a connection not only makes for a short read, but it also has a huge impact on whether or not I can truly catch someone's sparkle.

When I'm trying to take a picture, it is my responsibility to temporarily suspend anything that is on my mind so that my single focus is on the person before me.  Over time and with a lot of hard work,  I will eventually learn the technical skills of photography.  The skill that is critical for my progress right now, is the ability to let go of everything else and engage with each subject.  We have to connect.

Day 85 - Jeffery and his nephew, Matt

Jeffery and Matt were walking down the street when I chased them down to ask if they would let me take their picture.  I know they look like tough guys but they were both soft-spoken and quite gentlemanly.

Day 86 - Virgil

The Broadway Cigar Company is near my work and I've often wondered what it's like inside. I've also been thinking it could be a great resource for potential subjects.  I decided Monday would be the day that I explore the shop and introduce myself to ask if I could come back in the future.  When I walked in, Virgil raised his eyebrows in surprise…I don't think they get very many women visitors.

I explained that I wasn't there for cigars, but rather to ask a favor. I explained the project to Virgil and he obliged my request to be day 86.  He gave me the names of the owners, so I might just be back in touch. I just know the shop must get all kinds of interesting customers who would be great subjects!  I felt a little like I was intruding on a secret men's club - so I would definitely want to get permission before a return visit.

Day 87 - David 

David is the 3rd Plaid Pantry person in this project.  Plaid Pantry is a chain of convenience stores in Portland and I don't think I've ever met a Plaid Pantry worker that I didn't like. The employees are always pretty cool people.  The challenge with each of the three, is that I've had to work quickly to get the picture before any customers are ready to check out.

Day 88 - Tim

It was a dark and stormy night.  I mean, it really was a dark and stormy night!  I started my commute home and was really starting to stress about finding a subject in the rain. I didn't want to hit the mall but I just couldn't think of anyplace else to find a subject.  As I was sitting in traffic, I realized I was right next to a Les Schwab Tire Center.  Les Schwab is known for their amazing customer service. When you pull into a Les Schwab, they come running out to your car to help you!  I'm not making this up - they actually run to you! (ok, so it's technically more like a trot.)

It couldn't have been more perfect - all I would have to do is pull into the parking lot and my subject would come running out to greet me!  It felt a little like cheating but I decided to give it a try since there were no cars in the lot and it was shortly before closing time.  Sure enough, the moment I pulled in, Tim came running/trotting out to help me! I explained I was actually stopping by for a strange favor and Tim was happy to help with the project.

Day 89 - Natasha

Natasha is the new owner of the Nectar Cafe, in the Hollywood District.   She makes a perfect Americano!  I stopped by for the caffeine but left having also found a great subject for the day.  This coffee shop is so cozy, I just wanted to hang out and be still for a while.

Day 90 - Matt

I maintained the new Friday routine of meeting my friend Anne to hunt for a subject at Charlie's.   I was having trouble finding just the right person and then I discovered Matt. He was playing pool with his friends.  I approached Matt's table and asked if he would be willing to help me with my picture project.  Matt was bashful but his friend wasn't!  His friend told me, "yes, he'll do it!"

Matt asked a few questions about the project and seemed genuinely interested in how it came about and how it was moving along.  Although he was bashful at first, it quickly felt like Matt was just a friend I hadn't met yet.  I was enjoying our talk because he's just the kind of person you'd want to hang out with.  Although Matt was one person who I was afforded the time to actually connect with, we were still having problems getting the shot.

Even though we were having a nice conversation, when it came time to take the picture…we were both nervous!  He's as nervous to have his picture taken as I am when I ask someone if I can take their picture!  He wanted direction from me, but I still lack the confidence and skill to direct someone on how to "give" the picture that I'd like to take.

There's so much to learn!  In addition to the technical skills of photography, I also need to learn how to put people at ease.   I need to gain confidence and learn how to "direct" a subject on how to move if they're feeling uncomfortable or unsure of what to do.  Once we're both comfortable and confident, then we will end up with a picture we both love.  I want people to look at their picture and feel good about themselves.

Day 91 - Nancy and her dog, Patty

I spotted Nancy and Patty in the park, just as Patty bolted away from Nancy and gave chase to a squirrel.  I wasn't going to ask Nancy to be a subject because she looked like she had her hands full with her little squirrel hunter but after walking around the park for a while, I decided they were meant to be day 91.

Nancy happily agreed to a picture before I even finished my spiel.  The first thing she said was, "I'm not very photogenic but Patty is!"  Nancy turned out to be quite photogenic, but there wasn't a thing I could do to win Patty's attention away from the squirrel.

After I've taken a person's picture, I often ask them if there's anything they would like me to promote on my blog. (such as their business, band, art, their own blog, etc.) Nancy responded, "I want to promote peace, love, forgiveness, tolerance, and to be kind to animals."     She then went on to say that "as you get older, you realize that nothing else really matters. When you reach the end of your life, the only thing you really have is the relationships you had with others."  Nancy's sister died a few years ago.  Near the end of her sister's life, they had to move her from her beautiful home and into a care facility.  When her sister moved into the facility, the belongings she had accumulated over her entire lifetime had to be pared down to just one box.  The experience caused Nancy to realize the importance of relationships over any material possessions.

I thanked Nancy and was on my way, but my mind was still deep in thought about everything Nancy had said.  I've been feeling the same way for several years now.  I think we can't help but reach that realization as we reach the age when we have more years behind us than we, potentially, have in front of us.  I was holding back tears once again.  I was touched and impacted not only by the content of Nancy's words, but also because of our interaction…our connection.  Another woman I had just met, opened up and shared a difficult experience and the weight of everything she said just hit me all at once.

And then…

Day 91 Bonus - Stephen and BeBee Baby

I  was still writing down notes from my conversation with Nancy as I was waiting for the crosswalk signal to change and when I looked up, there was Stephen. He asked what I was reading and I said that I was just taking notes.  He wanted to know what kind of notes, so I explained the project.  I asked if he would be my "bonus" for today and he agreed, saying, "I love to have my picture taken!"

Stephen was just a character! He said he lived in Hollywood many years ago and he's been in a few movies, as an extra.  He then told me that he was related to "Lewis."  Having just talked about Hollywood, I thought he meant Jerry Lewis but he corrected me that it was "Meriwether Lewis, you know, Lewis and Clark."  I believe Stephen.

Stephen and BeBee Baby had just come from the grocery store and PetCo.  I looked in the basket and could see that BeBee Baby was sitting on top of a few groceries.  Unless there's a PetCo that I don't know about, the closest store is a few miles away so the two of them had quite the ride!  Stephen assured me that BeBee Baby was secured in her basket.

Stephen and I visited a while longer before saying good-bye.  I had already been holding back the tears from my interaction with Nancy and after saying good-bye to Stephen, I couldn't hold them back any longer.  I hoped Stephen and BeBee Baby would be ok.  I hoped they are having a nice life.  I hoped that Stephen has relationships with still-living family and friends.  And then I thought, what matters most to Stephen may not even take up an entire box - perhaps what matters most to Stephen was right there in the basket in front of me. His Be Bee Baby.

Thank you for following along with me and this challenge.  These 91 people, and Stephen the bonus, are changing my life and I can't wait to see what the next 9 months bring.  I hope that you're enjoying this as much as much as I.  I'll work harder at trying to get to know people a little better and then I'll do my best to report that back to you.

If you've been a subject in this project - thank you. Thank you for your time, and thank you for your kindness.

Have a great week!