Times Square in New York City. I hate it. In fact…if I need to go somewhere near the Times Square area, I’ll make a point to go way around just to save myself from the experience. As much as Times Square has changed over the years…I’ll take the “seediness” back in the 80’s any day over the environment today.
So what is it that drives me crazy? These aggressive costumed characters that have multiplied profusely over the past few years. I’m talking the multiple Minnie Mouses, Hello Kitties, Elvises, Spidermans, Cookie Monsters, the Jokers to name just a few of the characters today. They are not officially licensed or regulated…so anyone can show up in costume and “work.” Meaning the characters will “suggest” that tourists take their pictures and then demand to be tipped…and trust me…many of them will make your life hell if you don’t tip by getting in your face and even demanding to have the image deleted from your camera. Of course they can’t do that…Times Square is a public place and anyone can take an image of anyone and anything.
So why on earth was I in Times Square? Yep, my recent photography class. Once as a group and yes, once a few days later by myself. The reason? It’s easier to get close in this environment. Practically everyone has a camera and no one cares if you photograph them. Well…except the cast of characters…and for me…it was Elvis. Demanding that I delete his photo from my camera, I had to remind him he couldn’t make me. Besides…he was a shitty Elvis to begin with. He was none too happy with me, but I know my rights.
Anyway, the lens requirement for the class was a 28, 35 or 50 mm…which means you gotta get close. The whole concept is to get close to your subject to give the viewer the feeling of being in the photo instead of just looking at it. So simple, but that was a profound statement for me and worth the price of admission. A huge differentiator in making good photographs on the street…but easier said than done. And then there’s finding the story. Yes, anyone can make an image of a person walking down the street, but is there a story? And trust me…it’s even more difficult to quickly scan, find the story, and then get close without cutting off a limb or two.
So back to Times Square where I felt more comfortable in the “get close” environment. I went looking and found a story…the desnudas of Times Square.
Desnuda is a spanish word meaning naked…and once they’re covered in body paint they strut their stuff in Times Square and pose for photos for…yes, tips. Once again there are no regulations. Now what’s interesting is the whole discussion as to why it’s OK for the Naked Cowboys to strut their stuff, yet the officials are having a field day with the women…and by the way…it’s totally legal for women to go topless in NYC. Oh, and you also have the whole discussion of the area being “children friendly” too. (If you live here in the U.S. we all know that a set of boobs could totally ruin a child for life.) (I hope you get my humor.)
But how many Naked Cowboys and Cowgirls and Desnudas and characters can Times Square handle? This dress is designed by Lunss. So this is the story that’s making daily headlines here in New York City and I did my best to capture it and to share a few of the images here.
Now that you’ve reviewed these images…it’s apparent the ones that make you feel as if you’re there versus just looking, right? It’s all such a learning experience!
So do I enjoy capturing life on the streets? Yes and no. I do under my terms…but I also learned you have to get closer to make the viewer feel as if they’re in the moment as well. What I will never be able to do is “shoot and scram.” And to be clear…that isn’t what we were taught per se. I’m just not one to put my lens in someone’s face (to get close) without engaging the person. That’s what I learned about myself…or perhaps needed to be reminded of it by this experience.
I’ll continue to share bits and pieces of what I learned in future posts…but for now let’s move on! Cause we’ve got a winner of Trysette’s CD! Lisa, you’re the pick! I’ll get that in the mail to you pronto! And for those of you who didn’t win this time? Guess what…upon my arrival in Arizona this week I returned to a bunch of CD’s that Trysette mailed to me to give away. So I’ll be doing more giveaways over the next couple of months! Yeah! You will so love her voice.
~~~
In another 48 hours I’ll be heading to Oregon. Three glorious weeks in a state here in the USA carport that I’ve yet to experience. And what makes it even better? To be fortunate enough to go with good friends. Four houses…in four totally different areas of Oregon…wine country, the mountains and the coast. Gosh…the potential for photography just has me in a perpetual state of SWOON. And for the very first time…I’m going to be doodling and commenting about my journey in my sketchbook…something I’ve never done before in my travels…so we’ll see how that goes, ha!
Stay tuned…gg
As usual, I was smiling big while reading your post and thinking of you there pointing your camera at naked cowboys and declaring that you know your rights! And of course Larry gets a glimpse of the photos and wants to read it, too, and his response is “What a life!” I agree and I’m also happy about that songbird leaving you a bunch of cd’s, I really want a chance at one!
Have wonderful travels and adventures in that great state of Oregon and we’ll be looking forward to seeing it all … love to you & yours ~
Thank you!! What a life indeed…and my head never hits the pillow without giving thanks each and every night. So so fortunate! Can’t wait to share Oregon!! xoxo
Having seen the Naked Cowboy up close and personal at ground level and from the top of a double-decker, I can see the allure, Robin. But I can also “get it” that there can also be over-kill. I’m glad you not only stuck to your rights but to your understanding of yourself in how you personally like to do your photography. I think one of the things we all love about you is how you engage your many subjects in conversation before taking their photo. Thank you for leading the way on this touch of humanity.
Oregon is a state I’d love to explore myself. Maybe if g’son Nicholas does indeed go to university there, I will! In the meantime, show us what to see…and keep doodling.
Thanks so much Ginnie! Will do!!
Times Square – here comes Robin! I am so in awe of this pictures and oh my they tell a story!
I have read about the “artists” at Times Square in the NYT but you truly made me understand what it is about . I so agree with you about engaging with someone before taking a picture of them it makes it more personal. I so would have loved to see you explaining your rights to Elvis ( especially a shitty one..)
Enjoy your stay in Oregon and have many more creative moments.
He was a horrible Elvis and then to ask me to delete? I was happy to delete them…when I got home, ha! Thanks so much Karen! Glad to bring some clarification!
Yes! I do get the difference between the photos up close and at a distance. Wow. When I see evocative street photography, I love it, but I doubt I could be the photographer, since I’m like you and want to engage someone whose photo I’m taking. Of course people like Steve McCurry do that, and I love Garry Winogrand’s work. Do you have a street photographer who inspires you especially?
I’m already in a state of envy over Oregon. Can’t wait to see!
Oh, I love Winograd’s work too! In fact, I’m on a personal mission to learn more from the old masters. The godfather of street photography – Henri Cartier-Bresson – is most definitely a favorite.
Gosh…I’m so excited about this Oregon trip…I think so much of it is not having spent this kind of time within the USA…so a real treat for sure. My problem is I want to do it all…all over the world! ha ha! Thank you!!!
I had no idea this was happening in Times Square, it would just gross me out. To think of people coming in from Europe to see this mess makes me so sad. I don’t think I am a prude, but really this is not what America is. You will have a ton of fun in Oregon, love that state.
I think of that all the time Barbara. I know Times Square is so famous throughout the world…and I really do wonder what visitors from other countries think about us. As you said…this is not what America is at all. I can’t ever get on a subway without thinking that people must think we are in a third world country…subway systems in India far surpass ours. It’s hard to comprehend. Thanks for your visit! Always enjoy your stopping in!
I agree with Ginnie about the “over kill” and I so agree with Karen that “I would have loved to see you explaining your rights to the shitty Elvis”. You go girl! I love that you engage the people you photograph. I think that is what makes your photographs come to life and show the personalities of the people you photograph.
Thanks VK! Always my number one fan. Love you! xo
Ah, Times Square, the cast of characters can blow your mind or maybe make you feel like you’re losing your mind You made me laugh with this one, Robin!
Like you I’m always extremely respectful of other’s privacy. If allowed to photograph someone I’m thrilled, but I could never do a grab and go. Not my style.
Your trip sounds like it will be a blast! Have fun! Xox-M
Oh thanks Mary! I’m so glad that you are back! 🙂
This is a very interesting post, Robin. I like to see not only what you love about New York but also what you dislike, it casts brighter light on the city’s character. 🙂
In the “Art of photography course” I participated in at the beginning of this year I was taught that a 50mm lens has the best focal distance to draw the viewer into the action as if they were part of it because the distance between the photographer and the person being photographed is the distance we are at when facing one another and communicating. I accepted the fact but actually never took the lens and tried to shoot any action with it. It is good to know the theory but without practising it, it just stays what it is, a non-personal piece of knowledge. Your experience made the knowledge personal for you and I can see that it enriched you. I love the first two captures!
By the way, were you informed in the course about your rights as a photographer, did you discuss the ethical and personal issues? Were you prepared you could be brought into a confrontation?
Enjoy your stay at Oregon, it sounds promising! 🙂
Thanks Petra! Interesting…my instructor Peter wasn’t that keen on the 50 mm even though he had that size in his documentation on what to bring…so he let me borrow one of his – I think it was the 28 mm. Regardless, you gotta get close and that was his whole point. I had always read that the 50mm was THE lens for street photography, but he obviously had other thoughts.
We didn’t really spend time on photographer’s rights…everyone was already comfortable that being in the U.S. we have rights in public places, so it never was really a discussion point. I do really think it’s up to the individual person. I don’t have a problem at all telling someone that questions me IF I’m in a public place…like Elvis did. I have had a policeman question me…and I told him the same thing. He knew…I think he just wanted to see if I knew. I am NOT keen on taking images of children without asking for permission from the parents. That I’m pretty much 100 percent on. But other than that…I shoot in public places like no tomorrow! Thanks for dropping in! Always enjoy the dialogue!
First off, I am so excited (If I am indeed, the Lisa) who won Trysette’s CD! Thank you so very much, Robin & Trysette. I am looking forward to enjoying her beautiful voice for years to come. I certainly could use that lift right now and appreciate it very much! Very nice that you have received more to share later on.
I got a big kick out of your post, RR. Due to your chutpah and your storytelling skills of the bad Elvis impersonator and your delight in telling him off (and the cop) and deleting his ass off your camera when you damn well felt like it, when you are home and without his knowledge nor permission. You weren’t the Big Cheese in corporate for nothing, Boss Lady. You know your shtuff!
BTW, I was disappointed in my spotting of the Naked Cowboy a few years ago only because I didn’t like his Tighty Whities and from behind. It said something, I forgot, perhaps, “Naked Cowboy” on in sharpies, all sloppy. I would have thought he would have had sexier undies, CK’s, something, other than Fruit of the Loom from the Dollar Store or Pathmark. Body was toned, and didn’t like they had added the “Naked Cowgirl”. God forbid men don’t get their kicks, too. It will always be a mans world.
Broadway – Yes, a crazy place. Don’t know when all those nutty aggressive costumed characters took over. It’s helps bring the tourists coming in swarms, always. But, Broadway has it’s theaters which we can’t discount the old beautiful theaters, the lights and dreams of all the starving actors and actresses waiting tables. Knew about the topless law years ago. If I had a great body (and anti-gravity Kryptonite), I’m sure I would have strutted my stuff on a hot summers day. YES, our culture is so screwed up when it comes to nudity. The human body is natural and in other cultures, a natural sight for children. Nothing wrong with that. North America makes it “dirty” and in the meantime, people are classless, running around with parts sticking out of material too small too blow my shnozz in and inappropriate dressing and rude sexual content is all over. Another subject. Sorry, don’t want to go on my soapbox about my issues with the US.
Totally get you and the frustration and discomfort of the rudeness of sticking a camera in someone’s face. You have the most amazing (That’s why I always say NatGeo material) photographs of people from not only the city but all around the world. But, your way of bringing out there true personalities, beauty and souls, through your lens is because of your personality. I am always especially impressed with the language barrier when you travel. Your respect, smile, point of the camera for permission is what lets them in allows them to trust you. As you shoot, your personality, smile and respect, allows them to let their guard down and be themselves. This, in turn, as a dual unspoken partenship, allows them to be comfortable, bare their true souls and allows you to get the most beautiful, amazing photographs of people from all over the world and so many cultures. You have the gift to break down all barriers. You, my dear, have displayed the most beautiful and heartfelt portraits of people I have ever seen in my life. I may not be world-traveled or a professional photographer, but I know people and I know beauty. So, I don’t need a diploma or to see the great and powerful Oz for that.
I have a glimpse of how stressful the class was for you. I hope that you know, just because someone is wonderful at their craft, well-respected and teaches in a fashion they choose to teach, if you don’t follow their advise, it doesn’t mean you failed in any way or are not good at your craft. You have YOUR gift of how you get your portraits and if that’s what works for you, then I would definitely would have shared that and hope that someone leared from me. Like I mentioned on another email or post, sometimes where put in situations to help others, without it being the original intent. I know you learned a lot, either way. Use what you wish and works for you, save the rest to share with someone you may help down the road, or throw it out, and move forward.
You are a success because your style makes you happy, you are fulfilling your dreams, you are open to learning, and hopefully comfortable in your skin to take what you need and put the rest in the back of your mind.
We are lucky that you are sharing your talents, heart and journey with us. I am very grateful and love you dearly and couldn’t be happier for you. I don’t know many other people who deserve it more than you. You’ve worked very hard to be where you are today. Part of your beauty is your humility and humanity.
Can’t wait for you to share your adventures in Oregon.
Love you.
xoxo
Holy moly, I can’t imagine ever having the desire to lose the laundry
and stride around NYC wrapped only in paint! I do, however, enjoy
a naked romp around my house when I’m sure I’m mostly alone:)
Thanks for the grin,
Jennifer
wow that was one up close photo!! laughed throughout this post. enjoy your vacation!!!
Crazy people all over… I remember one time that a ‘spider man’ jumped in front of my camera. I am blond, naive and I took a picture of him…. HE was the one that jumped, afterwards he held up his hands and wanted money……. So next time I think twice to do that…..
I am not very comfortable to getting u close and have the lens under their nose….. I always ask…. but then often the ‘moment’ is gone.
ENJOY ENJOY Oregon and we will enjoy your pictures after wards 🙂
Love and hugs.
My first reaction, like Cathy’s was Wow! What a place, and how interesting to see the difference that up close makes Robin. Really does make you feel you are right there and I almost wanted to step back a pace! You are braver than me! Have a wonderful time in Oregon, sounds delicious.
O all so true Robin, the complexities of the street. It’s a place of such mixed emotions too. Love it. hate it, it made for a fantastic photo-shoot. You are so brave!!!
Wow, great pictures! Have a terrific time in Oregon!
Well, however odd it seems to a Brit brought up on tea and admiring ducks, you cannot get away from the vibrancy and energy you always manage to capture so well. Disregarding the dress code, there seems to be an undercurrent of militancy or social point making which takes away from any sense of celebration. Just a point of view but it made me think how different these people are to those wonderful and dignified people you so brilliantly photographed in Peru
This seems to be a problem everywhere you go, not the maker issue though at least not here, I don’t understand why the local authority are not doing something about this Robin. It will have an effect on visitor numbers as folk will do what you did and avoid the area whenever possible, back to the images I think you have accomplished what you set out to do, well done you.
Time square has never been one of my favorite places either. And like you, can’t really decide if the former seediness was worse than the current sensationalism or visa versa.
I spent three months in NYC in the summer of 1982. It was a city much more dangerous and dirty, but it was much more lively, diverse and entertaining. Today, this place has become a fantasy island. Its inhabitants were driven out by speculation, it is as if we were in a big Las Vegas. You live in the United States, you must know their rights better than any Hispanic immigrant, but I find it very rude of you, taking pictures very close to anyone on the street without asking at least their license. Respect is good and everyone likes.
Thanks Luiz for commenting! Yes, NYC has definitely changed over the years. I first starting going to NYC during the early 80’s as well so I can relate to your description. I’m sorry that you find it very rude of me. I make images to share with others that are not so fortunate to travel. Making images far and close is a right we have in the USA and one that I will continue to exercise. I don’t find it being disrespectful. In this scenario the desnudas are comfortable in their own skin and I’m comfortable photographing them.