It's a great shot. An interesting composition and compelling subject matter. However, I would be afraid of angering and hurting the subject. if I was caught taking it surreptitiously. I doubt if I would have the nerve to ask her to pose. She almost surely would say no. If I thought I could shoot it and get away with it, I would definitely do so.
Shel Belinkoff wrote: > Hi gang, > > Notice I said "taking," for this photo wasn't offered, and the shutter > was tripped surreptitiously. The woman had no idea that I was going to > take this picture of her. > > I have mixed feelings about this shot. On the one hand it seemingly > reflects an aspect of American culture, yet, on the other hand, it's not > a very complimentary portrait, and one could argue that it in some ways > denigrates the subject. Is food the problem, or perhaps a medical > condition? Am I being judgmental or just recording a scene? Having > battled weight problems throughout my life, I'm somewhat sensitive to > this woman's situation. Still, the photo does, IMO, tell a story ... > and perhaps asks a question or two. > > My question to the list: Should this photo have been taken? Do you > think it is overly critical of the subject or sympathetic, or perhaps > judgmental? Maybe I'm being critical of myself, using the photo to work > through or better understand my own situation and problems. > > See for yourself, and share your thoughts: > http://home.earthlink.net/~scbelinkoff/bigeater.html > > shel
