Cowboy

 

Behind the Photograph

Sometimes the hardest part of making a portrait is saying hello.

"Every once in a while, a photograph is worth introducing yourself."

I've mentioned before that I don't exactly play well with others.

That's probably not the best way to put it.

I'm just naturally a little shy.

Most of the time, if I meet a stranger, I'm more likely to say, "How you doing?" or "Have a great day," than strike up a real conversation.

On this particular afternoon, Nada had wandered into a little shop to do some shopping.

I found a shady spot outside, ordered a cup of coffee, and settled in to enjoy the people passing by.

That's when I noticed him.

Sitting alone at a nearby table, quietly enjoying a glass of wine.

There was something about his face.

Life had written itself across it.

Lines.

Character.

Stories.

Some faces don't need introductions.

They've already lived enough stories to introduce themselves.

I kept looking at him and finally thought,

"If I don't ask, I'll regret it."

So I walked over.

"Sir, would you mind if I took your picture?"

Without missing a beat, he looked up and said,

"Yeah... if you don't think it'll break your camera."

Well...

How could you not like a fellow with a sense of humor like that?

I took a few photographs.

Thanked him for his kindness.

And let him get back to his wine.

Looking at the finished portrait later, I couldn't help imagining him somewhere in the Old West.

Sitting alone at a worn wooden table in a dusty saloon.

A player piano quietly filling the room.

Maybe waiting for a poker game.

Maybe just enjoying the peace and quiet before the next day's ride.

Of course...

None of that was true.

That's simply where my imagination wandered.

A few minutes later, Nada came out of the shop, and we continued on with our day.

I never saw the gentleman again.

As we walked away, though, I happened to glance around.

I didn't see a horse anywhere.

So instead of riding off into the sunset...

He probably climbed into an old ranch truck and headed home.

Photographer's Notes

St. Somewhere
Afternoon · Canon T3i
Outdoor café on a quiet afternoon
With Nada

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