(Leica X1)Look closer and we may make sense of a usual scene. For a lot of times coming across this spot, I have been mesmerised by the silhouettes of people and the window frames against the brightened view outside. The why and wherefore of this hadn't struck me until I downloaded this image to the computer and viewed it on the screen, "Ah-ha," I exclaimed to myself, "it's the religious overtone!"
After snapping street shots daily for four to five years, I have come to find that it pays to think through what meets the eyes at even the most common of scenes. The answer may not be obvious until one has taken the shot and is working on it on the computer screen. But even not knowing the answer instantly won't prevent the habit from mysteriously cuing you to photo worthy scenes which, when reproduced with unique perspective reflecting your subconscious ideas about the subjects and themes, will end you up with better shots. Not necessarily masterpieces but if the light is right and when skills mature, magic is possible.
But first, there is the need to use patience and be willing to stop to take note of a scene. I often slow down my pace for a potential scene and have actually for a few times moved over to this spot by the window to feel what glued people there. The appeal of this scene to me is no more coming naturally than cultivated after months of observing, feeling and thinking through what are there in the scene.
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