It’s one thing to make a picture of what a person looks like, it’s another thing to make a portrait of who they are. – Paul Caponigro
This young lady is an artist. At the time this image was taken in 2010 she was a senior in high school. Life had not been easy for her and her mother, and some of that is what you see in her eyes. But, I think what you really see is the strength and determination of this young lady. She was teaching herself to play the guitar as the money for lessons was not there. She enjoyed drawing. She was also one heck of a basketball player.
Six months prior to this image she, her mother and myself went hiking in the Hocking Hills area near Columbus, Ohio. I brought along my old D100 and a lens for her to play with. She enjoyed the photography and we were able to shoot together a couple more times. So, that Christmas I gave her one of my old D100s, a 50mm f1.8 lens, a spare battery and charger, a couple of memory cards, a small camera bag and the manual. She cried. Her mom cried. I grinned. So, because Riley and I had been able to connect over the past six months it was easy for her to drop all masks and make eye contact for this image. I could be nuts but in those eyes is an artist so I agree with Caponigro.
10 Comments
Earl
A very-nice portrait and story…Monte!
There is a depth to those eyes!
Monte Stevens
Thanks, Earl. I was wandering back in my archives and came across this image, saw those eyes, and wanted to write about her. Not sure where she’s at now or what’s going on in her life. I would expect she is in college and hopefully venturing into all sorts of art.
Bob Dein
I love that quote! Where did you find it?
Here’s another one: “Often the faces speak what words can never say” Carl Sandberg in his prologue to the 1955 Family of man exhibit.
Bob
Monte Stevens
When I’m looking for photography quotes I look at photoguotes. I like that quote also. Thanks!
Melissa
Monte,
I wanted to show my niece, Allie, whom you have met, your wonderful website. I did not expect this photo and story. Thank you, I needed a good cry today!
Love, Melissa
Monte Stevens
Timing is everything. That is true for the first time I met the two of you at the coffee shop. I was surprised to see your comment but so glad I listened to the whisper and posted the image. I hope all is well with the two of you. I will have to call you sometime and chat. Hugs, my friend!
John Linn
Hi Monte,
First time visitor and I am impressed with you photos and writing. Found you through Ken Bello’s blog. I plan to return for more interesting photos in the future. Thanks for sharing.
John
Monte Stevens
Thank you for your kind words and welcome to my blog. I’ll stop over at you site and have a look see. 🙂
Bob Dein
Photoquotes is GREAT! Thanks.
Cedric Canard
With reference to my response to your comment on my post, I think you’ve nailed the story telling with this portrait. Without props too. Her eyes are expressive; they show some uncertainty but a sense of strengthening confidence as well. All the best to her and thanks to you Monte for sharing.