Siesta Key Beach, Two Men
“Both light and shadow are the dance of love.”
— Rumi
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Two men are in quiet conversation at the sandy, concrete beach pavilion. It’s midday, a difficult hour for photography because the sunlight is so harsh and the shadows so deep. It is, however, a perfect time to take advantage of the intense contrast between sun and shade. These two men belong to a sect that probably prefer not to be
photographed, however I am being unobtrusive. The two are so similarly attired, they appear to be virtually mirror images of each other. What attracts my eye is how beautifully the light strikes their hats, beards, hands, and forearms. Their faces are mostly hidden. This is fine. This photograph is as much of shadow as it is of the men blending into it.
It’s a truism that portraits should be taken in the soft light of early morning and late afternoon. Another of those rules. This one is extremely limiting and presents a problem in a state like Florida where most of the day is awash in bright sunshine. Consequently, what I have learned to do is to pay attention to shadow and a very bright day inevitably ensures strong shadows.
At this stage of my life, every day counts. Avoiding the many hours of full sun is a luxury that only the young street photographer can afford.