Getting lucky at the dump Photo

Photographer’s Note

In one of Maputo's poorest neighborhoods, a ravine with a glorious view of the Indian Ocean is used as a local dump and is filled with garbage that piles up in huge mounds and releases a foul smoke into the air where it is being burned. Barefoot children, turkeys, and chickens scavenge through the trash looking for anything of use or value. These four boys are excited with their latest find.

I am in Maputo as part of a project team teaching photography to AIDS orphans so that they can document their lives and share their stories with the world. Highlights of their work is published daily on the project website, http://www.HouseIsSmall.org.

dareco, jasper has marked this note useful

Critiques | Translate

ninanic (69) 2007-08-10 17:04

I like the composition - zooming in tight gives the feeling that the boys are leaning into the camera, eager to show off their find. That plus the dump showing in the background helps tell the story.

wolf38 (12728) 2007-08-10 22:48

Hello Eugene. A very authentic shot in photo-journalistic art. Considerable and worth seeing. Best regards, Wolfgang.

dareco (17104) 2007-08-11 0:31

I will definitely look up that site. This picture makes me think, "boys will be boys" :) The little guy in the front has such a cute expression, shy but they all seem happy to have you take their photo. A very nice shot. I like the cropping as well.

jasper (86) 2007-08-18 0:06 [Comment]