I was attracted to the way this woman clutched her book and how the light was glowing off its pages. It was not until I got home and was processing the image that I read the words and realized she was writing a prayer. It is terribly upsetting to have religious righteous barking at you in the rush hour halls during my commute. Or worse when they camp themselves on a packed train and let it rip. I'm reminded of the hope we carry with us when I think of the efforts of those that are quietly working for peace, respect and caring in their own private way. I have no real idea what this woman’s message was, but I like to believe she had her heart in the right place. As we’ve seen just because one prays it does not mean it's a good thing.
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Underground Exhibition
14 December, 2005 • Express Train
Photography © Travis Ruse • photoblogs.org • listed
Practically all your photos are amazing and again I think of putting this one in my own Phlog, as an eaxample of how stunning such seemingly snappy shots can be. I am also thinking of writing an article on you work in the mag I work for, De FOTOgraaf in the Netherlands. (http://www.arend.nu/)
Beautiful...and poetic...
Another superb shot Travis. You mention the light coming off the page and I must say the lighting is outstanding. I wonder if the MTA knows just how great their lighting is!
Truly though, well done not only for composing the subject and lighting so well, but for being so tuned in to your surroundings.
This photograph is wonderful on so many levels, and what you have written is a perfect accompaniment. Travis, honestly, I know your life is pressed for time, but you should write more!
Your words have added a wonderful dimension. I'm not exposed to people spreading the word publicly (honestly, I had no idea that this happens), and this beautiful moment you've captured does speak to those people who practice their faith quietly and give a message in the way they live their lives.
This photo is simple and wonderful.
Great photo. I love the moment you've captured. She seems so passionate about what she is committing to paper... The composition is also really amazing - love the lighting on her book, which lights it "just right" in front of her dark clothing.
God is Real. :)
Thank You Travis!
" As we’ve seen just because one prays it does not mean it's a good thing."
As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. "Good teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good--except God alone.
Mark 10:17-18
You can read the rest of this wonderful & amazing chapter ...
Travis,
what a story! It's great to see you've decided to carry on with this project.
This is a very powerful image - hard to believe it was snatched from the daily commute, rather than staged in a studio, as the positioning and light are so perfect.
It's funny about people preaching about their faith. Where I work in Chester, UK, there is often a man outside the Town Hall, telling us all about God and Jesus and singing alone to complete strangers, many of whom walk past laughing at him. Despite the ridicule, he turns up anyway, day after day, handing out his leaftlets and occasionally finding someone who seems genuinely interested / sympathetic to his cause. I think it must take a lot of guts to do what he does - though I'd never do it myself, I respect him for it.
Religion eh - always one to get the fingers typing. Great work as ever Travis - bravo!
Anyone want to place a wager on the likelyhood of a strike tomorrow? I'm betting they work it out around 2am. There is an army of NYPD outside my office getting ready for a protest. It's crazy out there.
Jim is so right in those thoughts. It could easliy have been a studio staged shot. The franing is perfect. Excellent work again and as always.
Great shot, I like work like this it looks so natural. Is it?
Light is superb, and the framing, you got the moment perfectly.
this is stunning...it can be read...right to the amen