Elder Assignment

Round up of the second assignment

During our October 7th meeting we reviewed photographs from the second assignment.

Assignment Prompt: Make a portrait of an elder. Free from the expectations of youth, older folks often let their personality and eccentricities shine through.

Southern California beaches are typically foggy in the early mornings, creating an eerie atmosphere, and soft lighting. The white haze of the background adds a sense of mystery, while his past is clearly marked in the sand.

- Matt Coughlin

Roxana Spicer is doing a tour for her new book, and I had arranged do a shoot the day before her book signing.

I got a text saying that I could have 15 minutes with her at the venue before the event. By the time she arrived, I was told I had only 5 minutes.

I was moved her backstory and career, which I why I self-assigned this. I’m not sure it’s successful, but given the timing, lack of preparation and gear, I’m honestly surprised that I got anything at all!

- Shelagh Howard

These are portraits of my Aunt Margy and Uncle Bob. They've been together for over 50 years and I wanted to show the viewer how much they really love each other.

I have mixed feelings on how they turned out as they don't show as much creativity as they could. They likely would have done any crazy thing I asked them to do, so I wish I would've shot something more memorable. 

- John Vlautin

Therese is 73 and has long retired from her reporting days with CBC. I asked her to bring some props, but ultimately the most successful photo might be the one where she's in repose between set-ups.

- Wendy D

I attended a Seniors for Climate Action rally in Toronto. I arrived equipped with off-camera flash and asked dozens of people if I could take their portrait. The reactions ranged from being completely agreeable, to confusion and skepticism.

- Andrew Fleming