I stumbled across the most idyllic red and black Vardo (Romani wagon) whilst driving back from a photographic shoot yesterday. It totally captured my attention, standing alone, set in wasteland just outside Leamington Spa. My photographic instinct kicked in and I jumped out and took a couple of photographs, wondering who lived there and what their story was?
As I continued on my journey, my questions were answered, there was a man pulling his horse and a small wagon laden with water and some food. I stopped and chatted with him and asked if I could take his portrait.
His name is Jay. He told me a bit about his life and how he was on his way to Asia. He had been brought up there as a child and loved the people and the culture. It is his happy place.
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I was fascinated by his hands. He showed me them proudly and said “when you get injured it makes you stronger”.
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Technical info-
A little something for the photographers. I captured these images on my Canon 5D MarkII using my Petzval 58 art lens, made by Lomography . I love this lens for my personal work because it brings back the poetry and mystery to my images. The super sharp detail which is the reality of all professional cameras is softened to make way for the emotion, magic and mystique.
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Great images Tamara – very powerful. A moving story… looking forward to the next instalment
Thank you Ellen, it was such a fascinating and spontaneous project … I love when life interacts and plays with you like that. You have a choice to respond or carry on with your routine! I’m currently working on my little photo essay. I will post it soon.