2011 Fashion

years ago, my best friend from college observed that i used my camera (then, a wonderful new nikon slr, from mom) as a way to distance myself from people--avoid particular conversations or situations. it was definitely true that day (we were attending the wedding of a former college roommate and i'd been out of touch with all "the girls" for a few years. i was happy to be there, but nervous). it's probably been true a number of times since.

but lately i seem to have more conversations because of the camera--people will want to ask about it, and me. and it makes me a little bolder with people, especially people who i find interesting to photograph.

and when i'm in museums or stores (where the goods are particularly precious), i've been direct about asking permission--better sometimes to hear the "no" than to leave a bad taste.

***
my favorite antique shop in san telmo is elsa lionti-norberto sanchez at defensa 1170 in the galeria "la candelaria." my "trigger" finger was itching to click away before i even made it all the way inside the place. i was almost sure i wouldn't be allowed to shoot in there, but there was also no sneaking around. the place was small, and packed to the antique chandeliers-- and the girl behind the counter looked too sweet to consider even possibly offending... so i asked if it was ok take some photos. she gave me the nod and a yes.

and then we had a nice long chat about things, including the store: her parents are the owners, and they were famous dancers--the "fred and ginger" of argentina. (i'm pretty sure that's what she said! and it does say "fred y ginger" under their names on the card she gave me...)

que cute, no?