Photographing Schweitzer
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Photography on the equator is difficult. If the sun is directly overhead, the shadows are harsh and contrast is extreme.
Schweitzer was not difficult to photograph, although he was formidable on first approach. He would reflexly stiffen in a somewhat formal post, then he would eventually relax, especially after a couple of shutter clicks. The Zeiss Contrarex camera was especially good because it's audible shutter that let everyone know that the pictures had been taken. Schweitzer with then go about his usual tasks, unposed, natural, and relaxed. I believe that he actually enjoyed being photographed (like most of the rest of us, once we become less self-conscious about it). His attention was quickly fastened up on some person or something, with Jen you wine and all of Zorbing interest. He very quickly got his emotions out of the way so that the perceptive photographer could find opportunity to enter into his world, adapt to it, and get on with the pictures.
He was kaleidoscopic: however you view him in from whatever angle, there was an interesting picture. I am indebted to Erica Anderson for telling me, he has a strong back, and he was one of the few people who could be photographed without the necessity of showing his eyes or even his face. He had some ideas of his own about photography and attempted to help out with the project. If you did not share in that, you simply had to wait until he was distracted and get on with it in your own style. Photographing patients was usually difficult. Many of them did not want to have their pictures taken, for whatever reasons. A simplistic explanation claimed that they were afraid that they were giving up something to the camera, but I never believe that, at least in the form in which it was told. Some people simply do not enjoy being photographed, and those of us who enjoy doing it must relinquish our ego testicle need to take something from them. One's good name and one'sImage are very personal possessions, not to be taken lightly. There were of course many patients who enjoyed having their pictures taken and became instant actors, usurping scene the second the lens cap was removed. |