This morning as I did my ‘am’ walk-about here in Philadelphia….I walked out the door and immediately ran into a nice photo op, but…alas, guess who wasn’t ready? My camera was ensconced in my bag with settings that were simply ‘left-overs’ from yesterday’s jaunt. That combo meant I missed the photo……
What was the photo? ….it was cold and and icy rain falling so these two women were walking by with a dog. The dog was outfitted with homemade boots on all four paws, and the ladies had these funky boots as well. Would have made a nice shot of two booted ladies and one booted dog in between. All told…8 boots. So, always be ready and this implies both digital and film.
My camera is a Leica MA….a pretty pure camera to the bones as it is totally manual everything and yet, while not overly difficult to do quickly, it does help to have the camera at least out of the bag. While the ‘photo’ walked on by, I pulled the Leica from the bag, took a light read on my Weston, and settled on F8 @ 125 ….film is 400. Then, I walked on…all prepared and ready for the next photo which I wasn’t going to miss.
But after walked about 10 meters I decided on returning to that photo opp….why not? They were not far away and with a bit of power walking could catch up. So I pivoted and started the chase. All of a sudden they were gone, turned a corner. I picked up the pace. After I turned the corner I found my photo, minus one lady so now I am down to only 6 boots.
I approached the ‘now lone lady’….spoke to her….requested I take a photo of the dog and yes, of course….she loved it. Most doggers (people who like dogs) love to have their pet shot. So I knelt….took in the entire scene of just her feet from knees down and captured her feet with the dogs four boots. Nice shot….. But again….prepare yourself and be ready before you get out the door. Don’t allow that shot to escape.