Douglas Gerdts
September 2023 - Cuban Chocolate Vendor
About the Image(s)
The photo is entitled Cuban Chocolate Vendor and I took it on a visit to the island a few years ago.
I used a small Canon PowerShot D20 (space was a big issue!) and met the vendor on a Saturday morning at a make-shift farmers market. I asked his permission to take his picture and he somewhat reluctantly agreed to it — hence — no real hint of a smile!
What I love about the photo is that it captures quintessential Cuba — from the architecture, condition of buildings, ad hoc market, motorcycle, plantains scattered on the dirt road, and friends chatting on in the background.
This round’s discussion is now closed!
11 comments posted
Doug, I'm not a street photographer, no matter how hard I try, I just don't have a knack for it, but I am captivated by this image every time I look at it. Every detail contributes to the making of a great story, so much to see. Very well done. The overall image seems just a little flat to me. I might add a little contrast, maybe some dehaze, and a little boost to the colors. Otherwise, its a great shot. Posted: 09/10/2023 08:23:05
Thank you! - I agree - a little two-dimensional! Posted: 09/19/2023 10:29:31
Yeah the vendor doesn't look very happy. I like the rustic setting of your image. The women seem to be enjoying themselves. How was the chocolate? Posted: 09/12/2023 14:40:52
I did buy some chocolate (fee for allowing the photo!) and promptly gave it to some kids who were playing outside of the frame! I'll admit to being a cautious eater in Cuba - although loved everything! Posted: 09/19/2023 10:31:05
I am always Jealous of street photographers. I would love taking candid shots of the world but I am not out going enough to ask for permission and would feel wrong sneaking a shot - so first of all - kudos to you for even getting the shot!
I very much like this image, giving us a slice of life in Cuba. Posted: 09/13/2023 11:37:47
I very much like this image, giving us a slice of life in Cuba. Posted: 09/13/2023 11:37:47
I am always Jealous of street photographers. I would love taking candid shots of the world but I am not out going enough to ask for permission and would feel wrong sneaking a shot - so first of all - kudos to you for even getting the shot!
I very much like this image, giving us a slice of life in Cuba. Posted: 09/13/2023 11:37:47
I very much like this image, giving us a slice of life in Cuba. Posted: 09/13/2023 11:37:47
I never considered myself a street photographer - but thanks to your comments realize that I'm always drawn to street scenes! Might be a fun way to "focus"! Posted: 09/19/2023 10:31:58
I'm not a street photographer also. I do appreciate the genre and would like to do more. You have done well capturing a little slice of Cuba. Thanks for sharing. Posted: 09/17/2023 10:47:01
Thank you! Posted: 09/19/2023 10:32:16
Douglas, thanks for this image. Normally you see photos of Cuba with vintage cars in bright colors.
I think your image shows normal hard life away from the capital.
A little more contrast, a little boost to the colors, as Jim has already suggested, then it's absolutely perfect.
Posted: 09/20/2023 09:44:31
I think your image shows normal hard life away from the capital.
A little more contrast, a little boost to the colors, as Jim has already suggested, then it's absolutely perfect.
Posted: 09/20/2023 09:44:31
Hi Douglas, I feel like I want to buy some candy from this young man. Your photograph has a captivating quality that makes me feel like I'm right there, ready to engage with the scene. I personally would like to crop the top and the bottom little bit so to make the main subject stands on more. Nice travel captured! Posted: 09/20/2023 15:37:00