Quickies

The banks of the Ganges in Varanasi have been photographed before. I must have seen colorful shots of folks bathing and performing rituals on the steps that lead down from the city a hundred times. I was curious what photographic opportunities would present themselves to me while I visited. I was feeling a certain amount of pressure to start making portraits as I hadn't really made that a priority over the past week. Not outside pressure, just within myself.

I opted not to take the Streetstudio this trip. A shock to some, I'm sure, but this is a survey trip. I didn't know what to expect. I am traveling with friends. And I wanted to keep it super light. As it i I only brought one pair of pants. With hindsight, I made the right decision. Logistically, it would have been a real hassle.

Pretend Sadhu

While sitting on the steps of the main ghat (the name for the access points to the river) one sees the melding of tourist culture and tradition. Sadhus mix with children asking for money or food, dozens ask if you need a boat or want to buy silk while Hindus go about their rituals. It's quite beautiful as night approaches which is when I made this shot of a man who pretends to be a sadhu but is really acting the part for money. He and I locked eyes from a distance and he continued staring as I raised my camera to my face. It was the first portrait that felt worthy and inspired me to make more in the days ahead.

Beggar Girl

I was holding two cameras on each shoulder looking like a real gear-head. One had the 70-210 (which is what the Sadhu shot is made with), the other had my 17-55 and that is what this shot of a the beggar girl is made with. She approached and I immediately raised the camera and snapped this shot. I don't think I was even looking through the viewfinder.

Take Pictures double fisted.