I have had mixed reception from Ghanaians about having their pictures taken. I have passed up a few great pictures of people that refused to have their picture taken when asked. Some of the younger adutls actually ask me to take their picture, and children often demand that I take their picture (such as the kids on the bottom right)! In some parts of the central market, the mere presence of a camera is cause for loud protest. Some of my favorite photos from the streets and the markets have been “shot from the hip” – taken without looking through the viewfinder so people are unaware. I have to guesstimate what the camera can see so it doesn’t always work out, but the picture on the top left was shot like this, as were most of my pictures from the market.
I love your black and white photographs Michael!! They are stunning!!
These are great Michael!!
I love shots “from the hip”, I think they are my favorite shots and I think that is also my favorite way to shoot!
Thanks for sharing!
Fantabulous shots Michael. I don’t think I have your ‘from the hip’ skills! I know what you mean about the mixed reaction to seeing your camera though – I was in Mali, West Africa in 2006 and experienced those reactions first-hand!
That was Feb ’06 and in April ’06 I flew to Long Island for the day and picked up my first digital camera! Now I still need classes/lessons!
Michael, these are gorgeous! I want you to have another gallery show so I can add to the photograph I bought of yours. Your black & white images are breathtaking & truly capture Ghana. It looks like you two had an amazing adventure!