HONY

If you haven't yet discovered this photographer on Facebook, I suggest you look him up now (or after you read this) here.

Brandon Stanton of Humans of New York is a magnificent photographer. What's so special about him is that he captures the daily lives of eccentric and unique New Yorkers. Most excitingly, he doesn't know them. Imagine walking up to a random stranger and asking to take their picture. I for one, would be too nervous to.

He pairs each picture with a special anecdote about his subject, perhaps some small talk they shared or something significant he identifies them with.

Looking through all his pictures, I find myself wondering how he spots all these interesting people. Then I realize that it's not him, it's us. We're too busy making our way to our next destination that we've put up blinders to the rest of the world. We don't take the time to notice our surroundings, the people around us and the buildings that rise above us. So here's a tip: the next time you find yourself walking through the streets of New York (or anywhere, really), take a look. Stop and smell the roses. Take a mental picture (or an actual one) and remember that one moment. You'll be surprised at the things you see.

Until next time,
J

Some of my favorites among his collection of portraits:










(all images c/o HONY)