As we approached each other, Juliette caught my eye. I wanted to photograph her, but the background was cluttered. Moreover, we were away from shade, although the sky was overcast. Usually when I think that it might be overcast enough for a portrait, I'm wrong, and settle for some unflattering shadows.
But I positioned myself in front of them, asked for a favor, made my usual request. While I spoke, they were silent and appeared skeptical, I wondered if they were foreign born and English was not their primary language. But finally Rob asked why I did this. So I got out the phone and showed them the Flickr Photostream. Immediately they beamed, and Juliette said, “cool!” Never has my smartphone been so helpful. Rob asked how many of the hundred I had gotten. I explained that I had photographed several hundred strangers, and that the project was addictive. They were then totally on board and happy to be photographed.
