listen to the music...

Met this guy at a music store in downtown Memphis, TN on Beale Street.  The name of the store was "Memphis Music".  The main reason that I went into the store was they had tons of old photos along the walls.  Very interesting history in this store (both the music and the pictures).  Stopped on the way out to talk with this gentleman.  He was part of the family of one of the owners.  He had been dancing around the store conversing with all of the customers.  He "posed" for a picture in front of the store and then I was on my way.  Alot of character in this picture...

338 somewhere, memphis tennessee...

Another picture from Memphis.  Along with people photos, I wanted to get some pictures of the buildings in the area.  This one was interesting because of the single post in front.  I say it is a single post because if there was another, it was not interesting enough to include in the picture.  I also like the reflections of the buildings that were across the street and the fact that you can read the text that identifies it as "the memphis college of art".  Notice there is minimal distortion in the vertical lines of the picture even though I was fairly close to the building (this speaks very well of the Zeiss 35mm lense).  It is hard to go to a city one time and somehow capture the essence or mood of the city and its people or buildings.  I already feel like I could do better if I go to Memphis again.  I look forward to the opportunity...

they call him Joe...

My first opportunity to take the Leica camera in a street setting amongst total strangers.  Memphis, TN seemed like a great opportunity...  I am absolutely fascinated by street photography, but definitely terrified of approaching people myself and knowingly taking a picture.  I see myself being the guy walking down the street taking pictures from his waist hoping that nobody notices.  This also has it's own set of challenges, focus and aim being the main ones.  Well I passed this guy several times and finally stopped to talk, trying to lead into the question "do you mind if I take your picture".  Joe was his name (so he told me), and he had worked on this corner at this restaurant for over 9 years.  He definitely was more approachable than his appearance might lead you to believe.  He was also overly receptive to "just talking" and even better when it came to the picture.  In retrospect, I think the camera around my neck probably let him know what I wanted even before I asked the question...  Took several more pictures around Memphis and of course every one has a story.  Hope to post them later.