I never really appreciated rapid fire street photography but rather admired portraits of people, such as shopkeepers, that I would find in my locale or in travels. This blog will highlight some of the shopkeepers I photographed during my exploration of Arthur Avenue in the Bronx. Here are some suggestions:

1. Get to know the people you are photographing. Make them comfortable. Ask about their shop and their jobs. Deli Manager

2. I always like to give back. I return on many occasions to the same locale and bring prints for them as gifts or give them jpegs if desired for their own social medial and PR. Word spreads and the cooperation keeps improving.

Behind the Deli Counter Playing Cards

3. Linger. Don't rush. Be part of the community. This will allow you time to set up for a particular photo even using off camera flash without causing discomfort or alarm.

Pulling Fresh Mozarella Meat Market

4. Accept humble offerings of coffee, cheese, pasta etc. since they want to show you that your work is valuable to them. Show respect and they will respect you. Fresh Pasta

5. Enjoy your new found friends. Expand your horizon and try other neighborhoods that you would like to get to know.

Enter the Fish Store Mayor of Arthur Avenue