Today (Thursday) I went to Leesa in Windsor, Ontario for a long-overdue haircut. As seems to be my habit of late, I set up my camera so I could chronicle the event using my remote shutter release. This self portrait project is like a demanding lover. It won't let me alone!

I received a most helpful private comment from fellow PBaser Ralph Eldridge regarding yesterday's description of my new "shooting from the hip" style of taking photos. He expressed some legitimate concerns and asked helpful questions. Ralph has been a true friend to me these past months. He offers honest critiques that help me refine my photographic aesthetic and technique. I greatly value his opinions. You might be interested in the answer I sent him today. I wrote:

"As always, Ralph, you make me think. Regarding the possibility of my being a 'snapshooter,' I don't see that as a danger. Maybe some of my photos resemble snapshots, but if so, you will not see them here. At least I hope not. Please tell me if I'm wrong.

Something organic is going on, and I'm reluctant to get in its way. It's like all the work I've done over the past months and years, work in which I was VERY conscious in my picture taking, has gone cellular and I no longer need to think about it. Yes, I end up with a lot of crap but the ones that work make it all worthwhile. It no longer feels natural to put my camera to my eye. Of course I still do so when I need to, but that has become the exception rather than the rule.

And it's not about wanting to be a 'player' rather than observer either. I am very conscious of my role as chronicler and so are the people I photograph. I just find that if my camera is less obtrusive, folks can be more themselves.

By the way, I'm in no rush here. I plan to continue this Hannan House project for months if not years. I'm building relationships right now and that takes precedence over the quality of my photos. The longer I'm there, the more at ease folks will be with me and my camera, and the more authentic will be the shots I'll take. I'm there for the long haul.

Hope it doesn't sound like I'm making excuses. I'm following my gut and that seems to be the way to go. At least for now.

Again, thanks so much for your time and attention, Ralph. You're a great help to me.

Patricia"