One expensive photo.

Today after work I took the train into the city to attend a photowalk put on by Splendid Photo (my local film lab) and Capital Magazine (CM). CM is putting on their Capital Photographer of the Year competition and tonight was a chance to walk around Wellington to capture photos and talk with some of the judges on what they might be looking for in the various categories. My interest wasn't in the competition, but to meet fellow photographers in the area and have a chance to take some photos. (Blip meet anyone?) 

On my way, I was stopped by Auguston (left) on Cuba street asking for some food. I never know how to respond to these requests. I feel heartless if I walk by and ignore them. There are so many stereotypes around people asking for money or food on the street. Which, if any, are true? Not all people can fit into them, right? So, I decided to stop and talk for a bit. For whatever reason, I agreed to head across the street to a small chinese food shop and shout Auguston some chicken and cashews. As we were walking in, Shane (right) entered as well stating, "Are you shouting us some food?" I was too far in to pull out so I responded, "Yeah."

Fifteen dollars later and some attempts at making conversation with them, I got this photo. No real conversation happened as I asked about where they came from, what they are interested in, how life was on the street, etc. At least in the end they had some food tonight (maybe someone else would have shouted them, who knows). 

I also took photos on the walk later, but this was the real adventure of the day. This photo cost me, but hopefully it made some difference. 

Anybody else have experiences like this? 

Until next time,
M