i was taking some photos of a watch repairer's shop window yesterday. it was fairly interesting although not great as the light was wrong and there were too many reflections, but there were a few interesting bits and bobs.

then the proprietor came running out and started shouting at me "i'm sick of you people always taking pictures without asking, i have a living to make, i've got my own website you know"!

well, taken aback by his ferocity and a bit confused i apologised for not asking permission and offered to delete the photos i'd taken (which were rubbish anyway) - his glowing red eyes made me think that was wise.

today, i went to my local pharmacist and was very tempted to photograph his wall of prescription medicines - which looked very appealing in a damien hirsty kind of way - only better, 'cos it's real.

but i chickened out of asking permission and hurriedly snapped a couple of clandestine shots when no one was looking. mainly they were no good - should have asked. ah well.

i really need to work on my schtick so that i can ask people if i can take their picture, and when they want to know why, be able to come up with a good answer and win them over.

it's strange that i find it so difficult as i worked as a sales assistant for many years and now i'm in a job that involves fundraising so i have no problem talking to people and being persuasive when i need to be.