Recently, I’ve been making street portraits. It all began when I made a portrait of a man with a beard. This portrait I have to call: Beard #1. This is how it all began.

I posted this photograph on Facebook, and was very surprised at the response. It was a hit, liked by a host of photographers, and some non-photographers too. This inspired me to shoot more street portraits. And I’ve made quite a number of street portraits since.

Regarding this shot, Beard #2, I was walking along, minding my own business in a shopping mall. Suddenly, I noticed this bearded man, his beard reminded me of the beard #1 shot. He seemed very approachable and friendly, so I approached him. I complimented him on his beard and asked if I could make his portrait. He was quite surprised that I’d asked to make his portrait, but he agreed.

I usually only have a small window of opportunity when I ask random people on the street if I can make their portraits. Sometimes I have to use a background that I wouldn’t under more favourable conditions. On this occasion, though, I didn’t want to keep him hanging for longer than he might think necessary. I had slightly more favourable conditions.

I was able to position him in the background, which I feel did more justice to this shot. In hindsight, I don’t think he would have complained if I kept him a little longer. I say this because, after making the first two shot, as he walking away I called him back to make a third. I think this shot was the best. Someone commented about the plaid shirt matching the plaid jacket. The other two shots didn’t emphasize this, as this one does.

I must say that I was, and still am, pleased with this shot. I think it captures his personality; he came across as being somewhat gentle, amiable, and kindhearted.

What are the TWO most impactful features that make your image a good photograph? Don’t be shy!

The manner in which the subject is framed, and choosing an appropriate subject.

If you could make this photo again, what would be the ONE thing you would like to do better or differently?

I would have liked to have spent more time experimenting with poses and expressions. Maybe.

Devon Green shared this photograph with the FRAMES Facebook Group.

Photographer

Devon Green, London, UK

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Equipment and settings

They say the best equipment is the one you have at the time.
I used my mobile phone. A Motorola E40. I believe.