Photos

Proud Jamaican

Showing my photos from Jamaica to my daughter, she made me return to that one. "You like that one?" I asked, "Why?". "Well" she said, "it’s just that I don’t know anyone looking like this around here". So I understood that the photo was perhaps so-so to her taste but the subject had some merit! Thanks Mathilde. ;)

In fact, photographing people of colour is a little tricky. "There is probably no question in portraiture that is more confusing to beginners than how to photograph people with black skin" (M. Zucker, NY Institute of Photography). So, if it requires special considerations in a studio, it’s not really easier on a beach in bright sun. I had read somewhere that it helps with extra light from a 90-degree angle. Don’t remember if I thought of it when I shot this photo, but the sun seems to be at 90° or so, although relatively high in the sky. Yes the beach is almost burned; I guess it was that or an underexposed face.

I don’t like too long notes, but I have thought to join the text below that I found on the net. I think it suits well the photo.

Another Red Stripe mon? Ya mon, respect!

*****

I am proud to be Jamaican.
Mi nuh 'fraid fi shout it out.
I don't mind visiting other places,
but a Jamdown run di route.
I love how the sun shines brightly,
an' di breeze blows through the trees.
I love my Jamaican people,
'cause wi move stylish wid ease.
I love my Jamaican food you know,
rice an' peas, chicken an' some good toto.
Bulla an' pear,
mek wi grin ear to ear.
An' it feels like summer time
all throughout the year.
I am proud to see my black people
stepping up in life.
Black teachers, black lawyers, black doctors, black leaders
setting the example for the youths to strive.
I love how Jamaican culture is influenced by others too.
I love all my Indian brothers, and the Chinese and Europeans too.
Out of many we are one people.
God's children all are we.
Yes, I'm proud to be a Jamaican
on this blessed rock in the Caribbean Sea.