I went with my son into the city for an early appointment this weekend and took some time to wander with my camera. Acorn Street is always a classic spot — and always crowded. I’ve even seen residents come out and ask people to leave. I get it: it’s a gorgeous photo opportunity, but at the same time, people pay a lot to live there. I try to be respectful everywhere I photograph, and I’d never bring a couple or a full session here out of respect for the residents.
That said, I thought an early morning shot might work. When I arrived, there was already a wedding shoot underway — the couple and two photographers, full gear. I walked the surrounding blocks, came back 20 minutes later, and they were still there. I passed by again 30 minutes later, and they were still there, shouting directions and blocking the street. Fascinated, I stayed and watched for another 15 minutes. It was a perfect example of how not to do things. I got sick of waiting, so I stepped in behind them. They had seen me every time I was there, so they knew I was there. The bride is just a few inches to my right in this photo. I took two shots and got out. I could sense that even the couple was feeling the weight of the time. My style is to blend in, not even to be noticed. This was the polar opposite, doubled. I wanted to ask them how long it takes them to go through the hundreds/thousands of shots they took in that time. Honestly, I worry that because of shoots like this, someday there will be signs posted that read: “No Photos.” Awareness is an essential part of photography.
tr/trp