Fashion
I had the good fortune one day of happening upon an outdoor fashion shoot in progress. I asked, and was granted permission to get some "behind the scenes" photographs of the event. It was a busy time, with models, makeup artists, stylists, set photographer and designer, all working collaboratively and creatively. Despite the work at hand, the mood was lighthearted and punctuated with much laughter. The late afternoon light was beautiful, and rich with color.
For a documentary photographer, the greatest gift has always been access to one's chosen subject. Once achieved, a close second to access is to be what's referred to as "a fly on the wall." Simply stated, it's having the complete cooperation and trust of one's subject such that your presence and role is acknowledged tacitly, and not betrayed by any outward or pretentious body language or mannerisms. Photographing in this way,the photographer is best able to capture unguarded and intimate moments, and by extension, create a more authentic portrayal of his or her subject.
My happening upon the group, unplanned as it was, was a transient event. My presence was acknowledged with a very gentle acceptance, and marked by a casual, yet professional indifference. My "fly on the wall" moment. It was a brief time where, in a public space, I could make the very conspicuous act of raising a camera to my eye, yet remain delightfully inconspicuous.
