The Meaning of Independence Day Found in a Photograph
On this year's Fourth of July, I embarked on a mission to take photos, but without a true destination like a traveler only looking for a journey. I've always found photography to be one of the greatest hobbies, because in searching for the great moments to be captured often times raw humanity is revealed during the experience, along with a piece of the puzzle of life.
Independence means different things to different people, and while roaming the streets of The Haight, I found one gentleman and his friends who were willing to show all those that found them what Independence means as an American.
As he and his two friends sauntered past my parked car, looking this and that way and about, enjoying the views of the colorful streets, I stared. They were shocking and openly invited gawkers by nature. And no matter whether one liked what they saw, there was certainly a reaction from each and every person around them. But here, in our marvelous nation, they walked proudly knowing that in America they could be happy in their bodies without persecution.
As I overcame my shock, I saw The Picture walking away from me. I hurriedly hopped out of my car waving my camera at them, and as I neared I asked if I could take a picture. And so the gentleman said sure, he didn't mind, and walked over to the pillar, striking the beautiful pose you see. And there it was, my picture of Independence Day.
I asked, "So what's the occasion?"
His friend said, "... We just like to be naked."
This article can also be found @ POTN: http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=1387166
And @ 500px: http://500px.com/Xyclopx/stories/3962783/the-meaning-of-independence-day-found-in-a-photograph