Why I Became a Photographer

On a sunny day when they had visitors - and they had many visitors, or so it seems to me in hindsight - someone would suggest going outside and taking a photograph. And if she had not already anticipated the visit, she would tell him to go upstairs and put on a collar and tie. Minutes passed. Suggestions concerning the best place to stand were discussed. And then we heard his tread on the stairs, and he emerged in a state now deemed appropriate for his image to be recorded. With no particular emotion he would acquiesce in her instructions as to where to stand. And then, with two or three photographs taken - seldom more - they would return to the living room. The moment of excitement was over.