parr for the course

Martin Parr, the famous British documentary photographer, spoke last night at West Bromwich Town Hall. His was the last of three talks to publicise next year's Blast Festival, a celebration of life in the six towns of Sandwell.

Martin takes us through some of the highlights of his fifty year career, which he describes as getting paid to pursue his hobby!  Do take a look at his web-site if you haven't come across his work before - it's well worth a visit.

 

in the human zoo

Yesterday I was in town for lunch with an old and very dear friend. I hadn't seem him for a little time so it was an absolute delight to catch up.

I arrived early and had half an hour spare to take some street photos.  I recently bought a mini Sony pocket camera specifically for this purpose.  It's so small I can put it in the palm of my hand - great for taking shots on the move.

Here are the photos I took. Some were humorous, some poignant, but the saddest of all was a victim of Spice, the horrendous synthetic drug which reduces users to zombies. Amidst all the hustle and bustle on the street this poor man was totally catatonic.  

Normally I would not dream of posting a shot like this but I felt compelled to do so. It's a salutary reminder that there but for the grace of God go I.