A Grand Day
Liam and I somehow got into conversation about what a beautiful day it was. I asked him if he lived here in the city.
Why sure, he replied, he has a grand little spot just down the road under the bridge. He doesn’t like it at any of the shelters.
That’s when the crazies in his head start giving him a hard time . . . . “like, you know.”
He has worked here and there in the US for more than a few years but is not planning on going back home until he’s made it here.
“Plus, ” he reminded me, “everyone knows all the best bars are up here on 2nd Ave!”
Hi, Patti. You’re fearless. I;m afraid to meet people in person. You meet them and talk them into allowing you to photograph them.
To tell you the truth Tom, most of the time I am just minding my own business!
What a lovely smile! But why’s he looking up?
I see he has his priorities. The best bars are on 2nd – I’ll keep that in my mind for next time. To be sure.
I think he’s looking at the funny side – I saw him again today and, in his words, he’s moved on from mug shots to shots for tourists! Thank you Lignum and here’s to fun for you next time on 2nd Ave!
He looks happy and has obviously managed to take care of himself. I wish I had his teeth. A coffee in hand and a nice woman talking to him and taking his picture must have made his day. Is that a cat’s tail swishing at the right of the photo.?
He was definitely the one with the charm, thank you Gerard!
It’s not a cat’s tail. It’s a piece of fur on the hood of a winter jacket.
Nice portrait Patti!
… And the 2nd Ave sign in top right … nice work and portrait Patti 🙂
That 2nd Ave sign must have sneaked in when I wasn’t looking!
Great street photography, Patti. It’s amazing that sometimes a simple smile at a person and saying something about the day will open up a conversation like this.
Thank you Angeline, I should point out that Liam opened the conversation – I was standing behind him at the lights trying to take a skyline shot of water towers when he turned around and said something to me about the view, one thing led to another . . . .
Great backstory Patti and your portrait of Liam is up front and honest – he is a survivor!! Not an easy thing in the streets of this city.
Thank you Pat. I was a little hesitant about posting this here with regard to Liam’s privacy and the last thing I want to do is minimise the hard reality of life on the streets but I have met so many people who are happy to talk, more than happy to have their photos taken and the funny thing is, they all have names which they are happy to give.
Nicely composed Patti. The background adds to the portrait and the story.
The glorious vista that is 2nd Ave, thank you Madhu!
Well done, a good photo and a story. And I like how he has his cup with “latte e cappuccino” in the hand!
robert
It’s that Continental touch which makes all the difference to a cup of coffee in a paper cup! Thank you so much Robert!
Nice photo and story Patti! You have a great ability to communicate with people you meet and it shows in your pictures which I love; it’s fascinating to see your posts.
Thank you Peter but I have to tell you, New Yorkers are just so chatty! Well most of them, or at leafs most of those I have met so far. Your very kind comment means so much, thank you once again!
One time I chatted with two homeless guys and photographed them. Making the first step and saying just “hello” was really hard. After all, the conversation was interesting. I could connect to a different world and to people with another perspective regarding day-to-day things. Your wonderful post reminds me of this.
He seems to be in good health, judging from his teeth 🙂 Compliments on the capture, Patti!
I just love your portraits, Patti! It’s the element of reportage that puts them somewhere else – they’re great and this is a fine example! Liam looks like a really interesting person. Was he under the bridge during all that snow, I wonder.
You clearly put people at ease Patti dearest! Nice.
You were a ray of sunshine to his day! You can tell by his glow.
And I see that the sighn says 2nd Ave. I take it then, that it might not be a latte or cappuccino in his little cup.
“Plus, ” he reminded me, “everyone knows all the best bars are up here on 2nd Ave!” – bars are everywhere in the world – but the best place to make street photos is New York!
Patti a great compassionate photograph and post…….real humanity!
Liam seems to be an amiable chap. Your portrait is evidence. Terrific.
What a wonderful character 🙂
I love it when you add a voice or story to the shot..I loved it from your earlier posts too, you have a great way of setting a scene! Great warmth from this portrait too..
Reminds me of one of the street vendors from The Big Issue in Melbourne I read about. He was homeless too and wanted to thank the passer-by who bought him a cup of coffee on a cold winter’s day. I can see wisdom in your Liam’s eyes. And what a beautiful NY early spring sky as backdrop!
Really interesting ortrait, Patti, with his upward look, the bright sun, the advert on the building behind, etc. And you engaged him easily, I bet.