The central market in Antigua, Guatemala is a fantastic, colorful place and it’s an incredible social and commerce center of the city. It’s not an easy place to photograph- covered stalls, patchy light, dark recesses, and lots of people moving about. But if you take your time, moving slowly, observing everything, and stand in one place long enough you can often get wonderful pictures. This lady knew we were photographing because Jeremy Woodhouse had just made some pictures of her, but when he stopped to check his results, she paused and placed her hands up by her face. As she looked over at me, I seized the moment of eye contact. But it was the hand gesture that made the picture work for me. Queen of her vegetables, proud and friendly. It was a great connection. We promised to make her a picture (Jeremy actually did) and when we walked out of the market, just a few blocks away there was a quick digital photo-printing place and within 20 minutes we had a print and were back giving it to her. The look on her face said so much in terms of appreciation for coming through with the promise of a picture, and she was a little stunned that it was so soon after!
It’s not always possible to give prints, and mailing them is a nightmare at times and they don’t get received, but this was easy and we were thrilled to do it.
Lovin’ it down here…
Wow… that is a wonderful catch. Jeremy is the master of making contact with this people. It looks like the market there is a little easier than San Cristobal. The people there were so difficult to photograph. Looks like you are getting some great stuff.
See you at home maybe????
Hi Alan. Yes, the people are easier here interestingly enough! Not everyone, but many more. It is really terrific for the group and even without Jeremy I am able to make contact and connect. My Spanish gets better everyday.
Oh, and yes, I’ll have about 9 days before we leave for AK. I. will try!
What a great story. Amazing colors in this one. I bet its one of those shots you will remember for ever. Street photography at its best!!
Thank you, Jan. Yes, I will remember it -she was so sweet.