Communication Breakdown

Learning from the Past.

Beauty, Communication Breakdown, Finding Solutions, Finding your Zen, Studio Photography

Earlier this week, I came across some photos from a session I often refer to as, the worst due to the lack of communication between myself and the model. Regardless of the fact that she was, by all means, beautiful and a great canvas to work with. Much of the hour we booked was marred by her insistance on looking tough and making what would most be considered a gas face. Luckily, my friend and mentor was willing to step in to make some suggestions that really turned things around. Shortly after her departure, we shared a deep exhale, grateful that the worst part of our day was over. Looking back, I’m thankful for both. The model for testing my patience and pushing me to become a better communicator. My friend for stepping in and showing me how a true professional gets things done.

The End of Civilization as we Knew it.

Communication Breakdown, Mental Health, Narrative

As I was exiting the historically riveting, yet soul crushing Smithsonian Museum of African History and Culture. I stopped to take this image of what I considered a moving moment. A row of people who had just exited the exhibition I had. People who had completely disconnected themselves from living in a moment and gone back to their worlds of social media and technology. Is this where we’re headed or have already arrived? Whether you’re old or familiar with a time when we weren’t as plugged in, yet tuned off. I recently watched as a woman walked into traffic without looking up from her phone. Only reacting when a car screeched to a halt in order not to hit her. Her reaction, “How dare you…” seemed indicative of the current mindset many carry around, troubled me. Not to come off like an old curmudgeon (Which I am.) shaking his fist at the sky. But, wake the fuck up.

Forever Young.

Communication Breakdown, Finding your Zen, Happiness, Innosence, Mental Health, Philosophy

When we’re young, we can’t wait to grow up. Then as we grow up, and inevitably grow older. We often reflect on our youth, wishing we could go back, or get some sort of redo. When recently watching a classic movie from my teens “The Breakfast Club.” Alley Sheedy’s character Allison laments “When you grow up. Your heart dies.” As an older person, I can’t help but feel the disconnection between generations and how we often discount, or completely write off the impact that each have, and continue to contribute on a daily basis. When we learn to become better listeners, I’m sure we can reconnect, share, and learn from one another. I captured the images below years ago while in downtown New York City. I refer to them when I feel an absence of balance and understanding. Reminding myself that, no matter how old I get in numbers. I should always remain open minded and young at heart.

Awkward Moments

Communication Breakdown, Finding your Zen, Storytelling

In recent weeks I’ve been asked several times, once by a complete stranger, what I loved most about photography, and what I most liked to shoot. In each instance, I went on a far out rant about my years of shooting, and other useless nonsense. that by all means, made me look as if I was nuts. Earlier this week, I had a chance to chat with one of them. During the exchange, I backtracked and brought up his question. Explaining my recent awkwardness and how I would have just responded with, “Everything.” Essentially because I love all aspects of the art. The colors, shapes, and tones. The storytelling elements of a good capture, and the moods they create. I look back with pride regarding the friendships and trust I’ve built during photo sessions over the years. Holding my camera, pressing the shutter and going through the days session bring me a joy that’s hard to explain. Getting off my soapbox and back to that original question, “What do you love most about photography?” My simple reply is and always will be, “Everything.”

Reaching Out.

Communication Breakdown, Finding Solutions, Finding your Zen, Friendship, Narrative

As of late, I’ve been doing my best to reach out to long-time friends and loved ones. With the advent of social media, many of us, myself included, have overlooked the importance and joy of hearing a friend’s voice over the telephone or opening a handwritten note or card from someone you once shared frequent exchanges with. Just imagine if one of your hundreds of friends on Facebook ever got a call from you. Don’t worry. You’ll be struck by lightning while accepting your lottery win before that ever happens.

No matter how much time has passed, there will always be a place in our hearts for friends, family and loved ones — sharing memories and getting updates on their current or recent doings. In contrast, exploring a new way to see one another. Although, those first words, “Hey …, this is …” might take a little courage. There is almost always a reward on the other end of the line.

Communication and the Lost Art of Listening

Communication Breakdown, Lower East Side, NYC, Street Photography

Listen-1 Everybody has a story to tell. Rich or poor. Young or old. Black or White. We all come from diverse backgrounds and have lived different lives. Yes, we’re all related to this earth and one another to a certain degree and share a common bond, but in so many other ways, we are unique. As I get older, I’ve tried to become less of a talker and more of a listener. Though it’s taken a lifetime, I’ve come to understand and embrace that the only time we learn is when we listen. So, after years of talking, I look forward to the hopes I can become a better listener.

Communication Breakdown, Social Media

"Not now honey, I'm texting. " — “Not now honey, I’m texting. “

As my social anxiety manifests itself. I am becoming increasingly overwhelmed and flat out bothered by how attached people are to their phones, mobile devices and social media. How many times I’ve watched as family and friends go out together and communicate solely through their phones and apps. Watching a man staring in to his phone as he sits with a beautiful woman. Unable to take a moment to realize what he’s missing out on. It would seem that the more connected we are to technology and social media. The more detached we become from one another. Sure, it’s great to have 839 friends on Facebook, but would you even recognize them if you saw them on the streets or at your local hangout. Even worse, would you ever want to see any of them in real life?

Can't Put it Down — Relationship Status; Phone

My wife lightheartedly refers to them as “The Walking Dead.” This morning, however, took the cake. As I walked in to the public restroom. The guy ahead of me was texting with one hand while holding his Johnson with the other. Imagine being so obsessed with your digital device that you can’t enjoy a private moment with your own manhood. The truth is there is a growing part of the population who spend the majority of their time with their faces firmly planted on the screens of their phones. Am I alone in thinking we’ve lost our focus on what’s real? Will people one day regret not being able to get back the time lost with friends, family and real life encounters? Well, there’s probably an app. for that.