** the poor the needy the begging the cons and the giving of alms ** Photo Gallery by John Amato at pbase.com

the poor the needy the begging the cons and the giving of alms

We made regular donations to the poor by way of clothes and money that have been donated from people around the world. These images are posted due to a lack of awareness and care in many parts of the world. When we help someone it is not just the article of clothes or money donation but the feeling it instills. I have seen this in the faces of people we have given to. The knowledge that someone cares lasts much longer than the money or donation of clothes. For the long term I hope that countries that are experiencing prosperity will help their own poor and needy and those in other countries and not turn away because it disturbs one's comfort.

Many of these images were taken in China.

Click on thumbnails to enlarge image.

If you feel this gallery has merit please vote for it so that more people may be compelled to look and hopefully understand and care.

With a small bucket for donations, most walked by. CZ2A4760.jpg	CZ2A2805.jpg	ShangHai, 2013. CZ2A1951.jpg	Shanghai, 2013. CZ2A1950.jpg
Begging for money on a local bridge.	Begging in the street and training his children.	Begging, sidewalk wet and muddy.	Blind and using a piece of iron for a walking stick he sings for donations. The plastic bag on his head is for the rain.
		Elderly homeless person at temporary home.
Homeless in China	Near an open market digging through garbage for food.		Sick, homeless and mentally ill.

	It's work . .	Hmong (Miao) elder picking through garbage for recyclables.	Sometimes real, sometimes fake not always are the children theirs, not always are the stories true.
	He looks up at me and grins when I take his photo and motions for me to go away.	He uses a piece of rubber to protect his bottom as he slides along.	Recycling for food and plastics.
Sorting garbage for types of food.	Kunming China. Indicating he was blind and asking for money. Looking back one last time, my eyes met his staring at me.
Disfigured	Blind
		Girl balancing on mouth getting ready to spin while the girl in the background spins a plate. Jishou City, China.	Girl spinning while balancing on mouth. Jishou City, China.
Watching from above.		He is blind, loves to play this intrument and sing and does not ask for money.	Singing for the joy.
His wife waits.	Who will give . . .	Waiting for the next coin to drop. . . the young and the old. . . bookends in life . .	Eating from the street.
	How old and needy before someone helps?	Eating from a container she found in the street.	Sifting through the garbage, a plastic bag against the rain and Smiling.
Recycling.
Day laborers waiting for work.	Finding recyclables.
	Disfigured.		Homeless and mentally ill.
Mentally ill, filthy and unable to properly take care of himself.	Miao elder collecting scrap metal.	Woman elder laying in the entrance to a business for web access.	Contrasts #1.
Contrasts #2.	When will it end? Mentally ill, refusing food, money or any help.	What are the dreams when you are mentally unstable and homeless?


		Fortune teller
		shooting-up.	Deformed legs. After a brief talk she wanted me to photograph her and show the world.
	In Lhasa Tibet, monks, children and mothers begging for money.		elder Lhasa, Tibet
Mother and child asking for money. Lhasa, Tibet.	Lhasa, Tibet	Lhasa, Tibet.	Lhasa, Tibet.
Loved by his sister.	Sister
Alms			Katmandu, Nepal
One good arm.	_.jpg

			Homeless and on the street.
			Waiting.
In rags

comment |

Thembinkosi Sydney Mandla		08-Jul-2015 09:25
Sir / madam I live in south africa in a smal town calld Adelaide poverty is the name of the people here kids walk a long way to school some of them without sheos some without meal I need same funds to help them please

Guest		25-Jun-2014 05:40
feeling sad an all is not the way to prevent their life...... try to help them in best possible way..........

Syed Safdar		29-Aug-2013 19:45
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Help-Hand-Foundation/126554157549841?ref=hl dO you stand with me ??

Mangles Photography		06-Jun-2013 09:25
WOW, a great gallery, speechless here

Wilfred Seefeld		03-Jun-2013 06:27
Powerful, heartbreaking, soulful images! A strong message against indifference, selfishness, and greed on this planet! Still so much work agead of us! VVVVV

Guest		26-Aug-2012 23:06
Thank you for making me aware of how good I have it--in spite of my problems. I so pity these people.

Guest		17-May-2012 17:54
Guest. I don't mean to be up-front but, I am 41 yrs old, in recovery for 8 yrs, I lost my job due to medical issues, I can't get any help from the state, I can't read or write that well or understand the paper, so its easier for them ti deny me benefits then help me, I am losing my treatment program cause I can't pay the 91.00 weekly payment, I can't get help with food, clothes, gas anything, I am a step away from being put on the streets. I don't no where to get help, I go to worksource everyday to look for work that I can do but no one will hire me with a preexisting condition, so I am asking everywhere I can for help. Your pictures are sad and I am afraid to be out there. I think preventing someone from that type of hardship is something important. So if you can help me or direct me to the right place I would be grateful. Thank you and god bless 360- 463-6356 don't no how much longer I will have this phone its should be disconnected in a week can't pay any bills, rent, lights, etc. hyia01@yahoo.com I check it all the time during the day when worksource is open

Guest		18-May-2010 04:27
most of us are so blessed

Birte Person		31-Jan-2010 03:18
Almost like work I just finished in India for an up coming book,great photographic journalism.V

MELBIN7		12-Oct-2009 10:44
WELL DO KNOW WHICH PEOPLE GOD KEEPS CLOSE TO HIM ? ...... .... POOR NEEDY UNTOUCHABLES....PEOPLE IN PAIN IF U WANT TO TOUCH GOD TOUCH THESE PEOPLE FIRST ........help them ... the needy and respect humanity these pics are crying out with pain ..........UNBELIEVABLE PICS WE ALL JUST DONT WANT TO SEE THEM BUT HOW CAN WE RUN AWAY FROM REALITY , TRUTH ????????

Rosalind Hanna		04-Nov-2008 05:35
I AM A POOR UNEMPLOYED DISADVANTAGED WOMAN AND MOTHER OF TWO HANDICAPPED ADULT CHILDREN AND WE ARE LIVING IN POVERTY . i am on section eight goverment low income housing unit because I am very poor . I am going to leave anyone that hears my plea for help my phone number and I hope to recive any king\d of generous donations, especially money donations of your immediate choice. I am in need of household appliance and beds and furniture for my home. we were evicted because the landlord let the home weere residing in go into foreclosure. My familty and I are seriously in need of any financial gift of your choice, from gift cards to anything a household can use. I am also in need of a used paid vehicle to get around, because I have a host of medical ailments that incapacitates me from getting around. Congestive Heart Failure, Diabetres, Hypertension, and asthma. please hear my desperate plea and cry out for finacial help. CALL Rosalind Hann (313) 458-6771 or write to 15308 Stahelin St. detroit Mi 48223

Guest		03-Jul-2008 08:42
the life is very difficult for those who have no sources of the income. these are the real touchy and provoking pictures which make me speechless and emotional to think about them.

Sudarshan Neupane		03-Jul-2008 08:37
oops! how severe the life is for the poor people through out the world. the creation of god has given diversity to all but this is the extreme. i am totally speechless and lost being emotional seeing all the pictures.....they are so innocent, true and appealing ......let's do something for them.

Pedro Be�a		28-May-2008 12:58
I love ur work, powerful

laurephotography		27-May-2008 22:21
Great ! Touching work ! VOTED...

Marzieh Lusth Etaati		24-May-2008 21:15
You are a brave man, you dares show something many other shutting one's eyes for. I loves yours job also if your images gives me evil in the heart. thank you for your courage.

Zeno Chen		24-May-2008 08:53
Makes picture recording which one shocks.

John Amato		23-May-2008 18:55
I see it everywhere. I do not consider parts of China developing. The large cities are developed but much of the countryside where 800,000,000 people live is still striving to change. There is good and bad with all this. I also see the desire for "more" tearing apart communities, pitting neighbors against neighbors as they seek greater wealth. This was from their mouths/words communicated to me.

yucai		23-May-2008 16:52
China being a developing country has lots of poor people. Which country has not gone through such a phase?

flowsnow		22-May-2008 03:39
Great street images. Though not many would appreciate looking at this part of life but we still cannot deny that it exist. Thanks for sharing, John. Keep posting.

TuTmin		21-May-2008 21:16
expressive shots.real life that perfectly & painfully presented .keep up the good effort.V~

Guest		20-May-2008 10:54
very strong work! big vote

Guest		19-May-2008 20:13
Brilliant portraits!

Martha Albuquerque		19-May-2008 12:27
Strong, sad but beautiful work here! V~

Guest		17-May-2008 11:13
I have looked at this gallery many times in the past although I can't remember if I've commented. I am glad you have posted it. It is a story that needs to be told.

benqi		17-May-2008 01:55
The china Goverment should help more for the poor,then spend so much $$$ on the STUPID Olympic Light Touch.

adeline		12-May-2008 11:51
these pictures did really touch my heart.

Jurgen Treue Photography		08-Apr-2008 12:48
John,,,,moving, compassionate and in your face..These are the images of China the outside world is not suppose to see especially in an Olympic year..

iboey headfier		17-Mar-2008 04:33
Listening to Cranberries "War Child" and watching yr gallery was one hell of an emotion ride.

Guest		29-Feb-2008 04:23
I magine all the people working on the space projects prepairing rocket after rocket to fly into space here and there taking pictures and landing on planets with no people on them where no on can live. A man lands on the moon and says wow,what a big step for mandkind.Imagine all thoes superior smart people speding billions and billions of dollars to go where no man is,no one home. Now thats what you call urinenating on the poor!!!!!

Louis-Virie Blanche		11-Dec-2007 22:16
John...I'm the inter-galactic, inter-dimensional...Cherokee, Choctaw, Blackfoot, Afro-French Creole Gumbo who met you at the watering hole oasis mirage known as Trader Joe's... In seeing the human-angels/images/art/and essence you've captured/portrayed...what you're sharing brings to mind the question as to what can be done and why we humans experience the experiences of our life journeys...did/do we chose to incarnate and experience specific experiences as a means of seasoning our souls...are those/these seemingly less fortunate experiences a (self chosen, co-created karma dharma dance) curse or a blessing in disquise...and does the pondering of the essence of life make it any better for our brothers and sisters...do our thoughts and prayers make a difference when all else seemingly fails...and although it's been said that money can't buy us love...is not true compassion a priceless, infinite commodity...especially when it inspires us to do whatever it takes to see ourselves in the essence of the quintessential namaste...in the eyes, images, hearts, souls and spirits of all living beings and living things... If a socially active singer songwriter performance artist poet singing sun songs of prayer can be of service to you and the humanity you serve please ask! I have creative vehicles known as Homeless Art and Think Tank 7 (a world citizens think tank) dedicated to the sharing and application of creative spirit, art/artifacts, ideas, opportunities and options pertaining to food, clothing, shelter, tools, fuel, amusement, and love (the seven essential needs/birthrights that all humans have in common) The goal being to inspire self sufficiency for all world citizens (spaceship earthlings, co-pilots and co-creators alike!) Thank you!

ANDRES		30-Jun-2007 18:07
Ecellent photographs...you could really capture the escence of madness lookng of what´s left of the life of this unfortunate people, and give a glimpse for sane persons to imagine how it would be to "wear those clothes" (if they have any)....me, as a plastic artist and strugling with certain chronic menthal dissorder, experiencing your gallery brings me back to the time without treatment, where time means nothing, when the body can´t work cause the mind just don´t seem to find a reason... congratulations on your work, keep on doing it. instinct and creativity is what make us really interesting living beings. www.myspace/odd_prod

Mary		19-May-2007 13:48
In all these posts of people expressing their sadness, anger and "why don't we help these people" attitudes, nowhere to I see the question, "How can I help" or "Where do I send donations." So, where DO I send donations? Where can I give what I have to those who need it instead of those who would re-sell it and make Guprofit from my donation?

Mark Bahti		11-Feb-2007 23:39
lest we forget that globalization is often the disturbing and displacement of ancient ways and people..

Fred		11-Feb-2007 16:19
Your photos make me ashamed of my species!

Guest		28-Jan-2007 01:03
These images are absolutely stunning. Voted!!!!! To view my work visit: http://www.pbase.com/ShawnKraus

Ntxoov Vwj		25-Jan-2007 16:38
I am Hmong(Maeo)live on the mountaintop, I just want to say thank you God for brought me to the United States of America. Again, thanks for showing me all your photo. During the time I look through all your photo, there was a sound saying to me "I will be remain here until you are giving up your cookies, beverages, and coffice." Do you know souls are begging for help. Do you know that one meal for a person in America can feed a family over sea a day.

bluechakra		13-Jan-2007 09:30
got any pictures from the philippines?

yujiro yutuc matsuda		10-Jan-2007 10:15
..................sad

Hugh N		26-Dec-2006 01:31
Thankyou for showing the face of poverty. Its sobering to look at these images and contemplate that for just a fraction of the budgets spent -maintaining military operations around the world- could be used to help people in desperate need.

shane		16-Nov-2006 12:11
i think some of the pictures are sick in the rong way

anuschka		08-Nov-2006 19:58
Voted. This should be seen, so next time the occasion arises people who saw this will remember and give or do!

Jose Canovas		30-Oct-2006 10:29
I find necessary your great work. Congrats! and please continue denouncing those extreme circunstances wherever they are.

Agnieszka		26-Oct-2006 19:18
Thank you

Guest		26-Oct-2006 12:58
This is the power of art. God bless and thank you for stirring my drunken conscience.

Lee G		19-Oct-2006 16:11
Moving and interesting,sad and thankful all the same. Nice documentary!

Guest		12-Oct-2006 19:02
Looking through ALL of the images, I was sad, touch, angry, and speechless... Sad that we live in this world so call "rich", and yet we're not able to take care of other's who are in need of just a good meal. Touch, for I know this is the true, and we as a human race sometimes are afraid of the truth...Angry with this world, we have money to build weapons, to go to war, but yet we have NO time to care for our own human race... and I am speechless because I know no matter how many pic's you show, or how many people are aware of issue ... only little will be done.... and that is what makes this world so sad. thank you for all your pictures, regardless of what other's opinion are... I truly appreciate your work...

John Amato		29-Sep-2006 03:23
If my work is exploitive then so be it. These people need help and the more people just turn away and refuse to look and help, the longer this inexcuseable situation will last. Please look up the term exploitive. I am gaining nothing from these images. All people know is that some person named John took them. What they do see is some people in need and this is a worldwide situation that needs to be addressed. I also feel that if people are in public and there where thousands of people may see them everyday what is the difference if an image is taken that shows others their need and the fact that the need is real and present? These people are in the public veiw. I do not seek them out in some hidden area, which would invade their privacy. What I want to show is exactly what the title of this gallery says.

Naoki Hayashi's Photo Gallery		27-Sep-2006 09:13
What a gallery!!! this is very very interesting your collection!! you did really great! V

BleuEvanescence		26-Sep-2006 04:12
Bonjour John… You did it again. You show what is there, in every country but that most of us refuses to see. You put faces on misery and you open our wide shot eyes... I am always extremely moved by the pieces of life you share with us. Some images, reflecting reality, are hard to believe but I know they only speak the truth, even when some subjects here might disguise it... You are a truth, life and light seeker. Incredible work. ~ Claudia

Guest		25-Sep-2006 01:03
this gallery is amazing what i do not understand is how the us can let other countries borrow 8 billion dollars that we will never get back but we cant take care of our homeless

Mike Stobbs		24-Sep-2006 13:21
Very moving gallery John and very well captured even a little help is better than none..keep up the super work......Mike

Sergio Pessolano		23-Sep-2006 16:40
Great, touching work. Voted.

Nunes BEIRAO - PHOTO		23-Sep-2006 11:30
Realistic and at the same time a sad album. Important, by the reason that each one of us can wonder how we can contribute for a better world! All this must be seen! gmv+

George Christakos		21-Sep-2006 14:02
You've captured perfectly the misery of human kind. A punch in the stomach, is this gallery. Bravo. V.

Guest		21-Sep-2006 05:38
I think these pictures and captions put a face on people we'd rather ignore and pretend don't exist. I'm especially saddened by the plight of the mentally ill, the disabled, the young and the elderly. These are the ones who are hardest hit by poverty. I know in my community I often see people looking through the garbage bins and are addicted or mentally ill. As someone who has a relative with a mental illness and knows how he has suffered, I get angry when I hear them called lazy or losers or that they like living on the streets. It is very sad, when mental illness can be treated. This is an excellent gallery and I voted for it, so that more may see it.

Guest		13-Sep-2006 09:48
Superbly shot and very emotive gallery. Well done... Ian

Agnes T. Ackerl		23-Aug-2006 13:37
Very strong gallery! I releases a some strong emotions, seeing these people you are usually passing by. Well done!

Greg Little		18-Aug-2006 22:08
The number and range of comments recieve are a testiment to the power of this gallery. Well done.

Guest		10-Aug-2006 04:39
It was truly heart breaking to look through this gallery. Such powerful and evocative pictures. These people are in all societies in the world, neglected and overlooked. There is no need to judge a photographer for taking pictures and sharing it. These pictures stay with you long after viewing them.

s.s		05-Aug-2006 12:05
I live in Tokyo (Japan is one of richest contries), and I see meny similar sight on the streets and in the metro. I feel unfair, and think of market fundamentalism.

nevadaoutback		04-Aug-2006 11:41
Thank You for posting these photos...I did much the same in the Philippines, 5 years I lived in the country and helped when I could...I lost all my photos in a fire, poverty, mental illness and abuse of all types are rampent plagues. The World is what you make of it, if it does'nt fit, make alterations.....

John Amato		30-Jul-2006 09:33
I would not call these people losers. Many have a physical, mental or situational problem but loser carries a very negative connotation. With regards to powerless, yes they do not possess very much influence. My posting of these images is to try and bring more awareness to their situation, which is paralleled around the world. Hopefully one day people with a true need as many of these people have, will be treated with more care and help than they are receiving at this time.

Epath		29-Jul-2006 11:15
This is very sad to see a group of powerless losers. I got many comments from readers of my post (without photo but with link to this page) Here is my post: http://emptyalmsbowl.blogsource.com/post.mhtml?post_id=360999 . We need more voices that the Country Government will do something about it to help those people.

Guest		25-Jul-2006 12:20
This is the sad truth of what is happening to some of our fellow man. And the truth must not be hidden. apparently if these comments are anything to go by some people do not want to see the truth. People need to be shown and reminded what is happening to their fellow human beings. not hide them under the carpet hoping they will go away and continue to live in our own little air conditioned bubble. as a member of the human race people should want to see these images. in turn feel ashamed and angered at their governments for not doing more to help the helpless. Not just in China. Every major city in the world has what we see above. These images bring peoples attention to the suffering that the homeless in the world have to go through. The great and glorious human race. No one deserves to live like that. Kudos to you John. For not letting these people be forgotten.

guest		20-Jul-2006 14:24
The photos are of real people that ends up as a travesty. They are often considered a specticle for society to view. The sad truth is that there are many others in far worse shape and not willing to be exposed to public scutiny. These people need help, whether they want it or not. I am saddened by the foul and belittling comments. You should never pretend that these people don't exist and rather than ignoring the situation, offer a kind gesture or support. Why won't anyone help them?

Guest		18-Jul-2006 18:29
this is the brutal reality of the life thet you showed us. great work voted.

aser		18-Jul-2006 15:40
Exellent

Guest		18-Jul-2006 09:39
Goodness, such a debate! I posted earlier on this gallery (saying that we need to take into account the motives of the phtotographer). I've looked at some of the things written after that and I feel I should amend my post. Please John, get rid of the captions.. they undermine what I think you are trying to acheive here. I still think that you were right to display these pictures but another good point has come up - you say if a person does not want their photo taken then you do not take it and yet, in the captions you say that some are not able/willing to speak. How do you get their consent to take photos in these cases?

Guest		18-Jul-2006 08:29
This is the country that is going to hold the 2008 Olympics. These people need the money better!

Guest		18-Jul-2006 04:45
mdigital....... at the risk of sounding unintelligent, you truly are an idiot.

mdigital		18-Jul-2006 01:16
I do not like your pictures you took of those people it is sad to see them like that I do know must of them can get a JOB and work. But they do not what to work they think we are to take care of them we do not need to do that as they can get off there ASS and get a JOB there are people out there that can help them get a job and get clean up if they let them. And if they what help Yes I have seen it in Wash DC it is sad to see that we have are own familys to feed I am thinkful for the man I have to go and work and make money to have food for us to eat. It is not are job to take care of them they need to go and work there are ones that like to Adopt but they can not becouse of abortions so thank about that. I see there are other ones that are upset on what you have done with these pictures on the Inernet and I am one of them if that was you how would you like it if same took pictures of and put it on hear for the hole world to see. I do not you would like that at all I thank my Lord for what I have I am blessed to be in the USA and that there are jobs out there for anyone that whats to work and can work. Sorry I do not like this at all Ginny

coyote		17-Jul-2006 19:27
Strong pictures that together make for a strong political statement. Yes, that's what it is and it lowers your photos to that of propaganda. See especially the caption for "disfigured". Who is more morally reprehensible: he who walks on pretending not to see, or he who stops and uses the ones who suffer for his own calculated purposes?

malcolm arnold		17-Jul-2006 15:16
in my humble opinion , these photos are about 'truth' It may take time but 'truth ' will always,always lead to healing. To many times we in society bury our heads in the sand .Here is an honesty of portraying reality The haves in the west are making the gap between themselves and the poor greater congrats on your honesty and obvious integrity .I live in bangladesh but was born and raised in Australia .I see this and worse on a daily basis . To live amongst the poorest of the poor is a life changing experience .priorities are changed , hopefully for the better

G�nter Hofst�dter		15-Jul-2006 23:26
excellent dokumentation !

Will Hayward		14-Jul-2006 22:45
John, A camera is a powerful tool. Words are as well though, and unfortunately in this case, the captions absolutely ruined the photos. A photo does not judge, but your words do. Who are you to judge? On July 8th, you posted, saying that you share these photos to bring awareness. If awareness is what you wanted, then you would not have captioned the photos as you did. Regards, Will Hayward

Guest		14-Jul-2006 13:35
Powerful & humbling stuff, very evocative gallery

Chuck Kuhn		14-Jul-2006 13:02
Powerful, I have been working on the same subject, with pictures from American cities & the homeless..work in progress..

Guest		14-Jul-2006 07:11
Good shots. But I feel that it is disrespectful to these people. Just my opinion. I wouldnt want anyone for that matter to take a photo and just post it up.

Wing		13-Jul-2006 23:57
Dear Bronwen, I think you have captured the point of all the discussions here - the motives of the photographer. Thanks to your point of view; and I do see the positive side of it all. However, I think the photographer has a fine line to tread here. Only he could honestly say to himself what his true motives are. Otherwise, I do congratulate him on his charity work. P.S. Jeroen do have happy lovely children. My French? No chance.

Gabriel CLAUDEPIERRE		13-Jul-2006 16:08
Bonjour, Je suis vraiment touché par toutes ces photos et tous ces gens. je ne sais pas quoi dire en voyant cette différence et en même temps ce armoni. Je ressent du mépri et de la haine, des larmes de douleur en vers les gens qui se force à ignorer et parfois cacher des gens magniphique qui vive le jour le jour et qui ne savent pas de quoi sera fais le landemai. pourtant ce sont eux qui on la plus grand noblésse de ne pas ce plaindre et de continuer à sourir et vivre à fond l'instant le plus préscieux qu'ils peuvent recevoir. Ce sont eux qui peuvent avoir la plus grande fierté car si un jour un homme riche et rejettant les image de ces bravent gens et bien il se suciderai aussi tôt. Merci Merci de montrer ces visages merci de la pensée pour eux et qi un jour je deviens connu et riche je serai venir à leur besoins tout les jours si il le faux et puisse t'ils être heureux. J'admir ton travail soigné face à ces photos INDESCRIPTIBLE de sentiment. BRAVO! www.whitetiger.book.fr

Guest		13-Jul-2006 15:59
I have expensive cameras, but I cannot think of a more valuable way to use it than what John has used it for: to document the life of the people around the world--good or bad, happy or sad.

Guest		13-Jul-2006 15:35
I can see Wing is very concered with the subjects' dignity. This remind me of a short story about an empathetic but ignorant emperor in accent China. One day the priminister reported to the emperor: "Your majesty, our people are starving to death." The emperor puzzled: "why don't they eat meat?". Dignity is important part of life, but it's a luxury that you won't consider untill you have food in your stomach and cloth on your body. Wing is also concered about the human rights of the people in the pictures. I checked the UN 'The International Bill of Human Rights', and there is nothing prohibit the exposure of the photos taken in public. As far as I know these photos are perfectly lawful in most of the countries as long as it is not used for commercial purpose. So Wing, you'd better keep your point on the ethical level. Wing supported his point by the analog of rape victims. Yes, rape victims don't want their photos to be published. But to be raped is not a way of life that happened everyday in front of the public. Wing also claimed that: "I don't think anyone should speculate what or who is causing their problems". This really shocked me. All I can say is: "What!!!???..." Wing don't like these people's photos on the internet in the name of their dignity, and also their family will feel really really bad if the see them on the Internet. But "no one should speculate"? In the name of what? Don't disturb our rosey dreams?

Guest		13-Jul-2006 08:52
There are many good points to consider here, and I agree with most to some degree that these pictures are not exploitive. We have to consider the motives of the photographer in a gallery like this, and from reading all the comments I gather he works wth these people. We cannot hope to presume what has passed between subject and photographer in those momets he has spent with these people. We cannot know that his interaction with them might not have brought some small light into their day. I dont get the impression that these shots were just taken as seen and that he then walked on without a care in the world. It would show if that were the case. As for the ethics.. some of the most powerful and moving photographs of all time have documented the suffering of others. And they they have changed our awareness, and sparked much generosity from the 'rich West'. Perhaps then, here we could be offered some links to any charites that are actively trying to help the vulnerable in China?

Guest		13-Jul-2006 07:58
Dear Wing, What shall and what shall we not do? Showing or not showing what's going on in the world? In my opinion it's not about dignity, it's about the surcomstances that did this to these people. It's sad, but 'they' are so poor because 'we' are so rich! These pictures makes us think, and makes us communicate, discuss... (we do, don't we?) If we can't show these pictures (in case of dignity), we can't show the Abu Ghraib pictures neither, for example. As a matter of fact, we couldn't show anything. Pictures like these are the truth. Nothing more, nothing less... A world full of shiny, happy people? Dream on... If you want to feel happy, check my pictures. My lovely children look so happy... Never the less, sometimes they are not!

Wing		13-Jul-2006 07:48
This is exactly the mentality of some of us - because these people are so powerless we can do what we like to them, even to ignore their human rights. Some of us may even think because they live in a poor country such as China, they don't even have that. I don't think anyone should speculate what or who is causing their problems; because that has completely missed the point. You may be right to say they have even lost their dignity; but shouldn't that mean they need more sympathy? Shouldn't that mean they need more protection? John is a healthcare worker by profession; and I'm sure he knows exactly what to do to people who are put under his care. I, as well as a lot of others, of course greatly appreaciate the nature of his charity work. That is to be encouraged. However, parading picutres of powerless and helpless people in such a manner, which at best elicits only emotional responses, will not help anything. No one would like to have their predicament displayed in such a fashion. Not yours. Not mine. Not theirs.

tyler		13-Jul-2006 06:28
their families, who are no doubt sitting at home at their computers seeing these pictures of them? not likely... it IS likely the direct result of their families that they are there in the first place... you say that they are robbed of the only thing they have left, "their dignity", well hate to say it that's long gone too - this photographer is not exploiting these helpless people, he is trying to raise awareness, and from the looks of the majority of these comments has done a fairly good job of it - don't get on the guy who helps these people twice a week, I highly doubt you do more than that for them......

Wing		12-Jul-2006 22:57
I feel very sad after seeing these pictures. Not just because of their misfortune; but also because of the way they are treated by someone who works under the banner of charity. In no way can anybody justify taking their photos and posting them on the internet. They are vulnerable people. Some of them are not even capable of making sense of the meaning of money. They already have nothing. However, there are people out there, like hunters, hunt them down, watch on, and rob them of what's left of them - their dignity. What about the feelings of their families? Would you post such pictures of yours, your friends', or your family's for 50 rmb or a meal offer? We are fortunate enough to live in a well-off society; can afford to travel around the world with an expensive camera; but it does not entitle us to show disrespect to disadvantaged people. To raise awareness is one thing; but one does not post sad pictures of rape victims to raise awareness of the problem for instance. The people in your pictures need protection, not exploitation. I'm sure you'll be able to put your camera skills to better use; but I think you owe these people, their families, and anybody who have been offended by these pictures an apology.

Sheena Woodhead		12-Jul-2006 19:58
Powerful and shocking, disturbing and saddening...but most of all, thought provoking. Voted.

Guest		12-Jul-2006 18:56
How sad is life for those people. We here in western Europe always complain about our own life but don't realise in what for world we live compare with theirs. Very strong gallery and we all have to show yhis more Voted

Guest		12-Jul-2006 18:14
As an activist of human rights I speak for the rights of humans of all nations. We as a world have failed to engage in the full use of resources, time, and knowledge to meet the needs of our society. We have allowed ourselves to be reduced to "them" and us when in truth it is "us". The greatest threat to human civilization is ourselves. The military taught me one thing, out of sight/out of mind. I wish I could post these photos on every billboard in every country so that we would begin to seek to conquer our number one killer poverty. 1/4 children will be born and die as a result of poverty. Its not a matter of choice, no one would choose to be homeless or hungry. It is the ignorance and misapplication of resources which has led to poverty and greed which continues to fuel the crisis.CC. (SR. BSW)

Shannon H		12-Jul-2006 15:44
This gallery handles the issues of homelessness and those forgotten, in exactly the right way. You haven't tried to glamourise the shots at all, to make them into something they are not (the likes of which we see in major publications sometimes). This gallery is raw and touching. I'd like to commend you on your sensetivity :) I lived in Thailand for a few years and saw alot of similar images of poverty in Bangkok. On the way to the Mall, we would pass this guy who had what looked like leprosy. From the condition of his skin that is what I assumed anyway, and he would just stand at the roadside staring into the distance, sometimes with bandages covering his wounds, sometimes not. I couldnt stand it. We passed him on the bus a few times before I said to my son 'c'mon we're getting off' .. even though I really didnt know what his reaction to us might be, I went up to him and handed him some thai notes. He broke out of that vacant stare and looked straight at us, then just mouthed the words 'kop koon' which is 'thank you'. I put my hands together in a wai and smiled at him. So I totally understand what you mean about the caring meaning more than the money :) Once again, thanks for sharing x

Guest		12-Jul-2006 15:11
I am a chinese. I want to thank you for the gallery. The photos crying out care and sympathy. I don't see any arrogant way of 'look at these losers'. I feel ashamed that we have not done enough to speak out for them and help them to make it a better world. I also feel ashamed for my fellow chinese who made negetive comments. I can only think of two kinds of people who might want the photoes be kept secret. Those who benefit from the cruption system working in China and those who are brain-washed. Most likely are the latter. Humanity is a long lost word in their dictionary. In their mind, people=country=goverment=CCP. If you criticize the goverment have not done enough to help those in need, they might well feel insulted. What a pity! Sadly those mentally disfigured victims of the brain-wash cannot be shown by pictures. They refuse to change and they refuse help, as one of your caption says, "where is the end"?

Ulla Kruys		12-Jul-2006 11:10
They say "the poor will always be with you"! Why??? So that others can indulge?

Guest		12-Jul-2006 10:19
IF there is rich people...so there is poor people. there are poor country because there are rich country.

johny		12-Jul-2006 06:58
Strong emotional feeling. Very sad this is life.

Guest		12-Jul-2006 06:27
Wanna see the same images? go to the NY subway

Leicestershire Wedding Photographer		11-Jul-2006 20:29
Words can't begin to say how powerful these images are...

steven		11-Jul-2006 18:16
the US government said China imperil world's safety, i should say how can they imperil us with those poor man?

john		11-Jul-2006 18:12
good job

Guest		11-Jul-2006 16:20
emotion,powerfull, ...........................sadness.....

Guest		11-Jul-2006 13:17
china is reach country but not now.becouse they don't known how to cheat money from other country like westen country.

Guest		11-Jul-2006 13:12
most of them are reach than normal,

Travis Flynn		11-Jul-2006 03:23
The theme is very evident in every image.

ltanh		11-Jul-2006 02:20
very impressive!

Guest		11-Jul-2006 01:58
What a stunning body of work which documents well the plight of some of those lost in a 'developing' society. The pictures of people with MI problems are very sad but also very powerful. We should all take note !! Ian

Yves Rubin		11-Jul-2006 01:01
Very moving gallery! It is amazing that anywhere in the world's big cities, the same problems arise. A general problem of our fast paced and overly busy modern society, which conveniently forgets about its ills.

Guest		10-Jul-2006 16:49
A very powerful and moving gallery.

kuare		10-Jul-2006 16:07
Reality is painful,but is reality.Well done.Vote

Guest		09-Jul-2006 23:30
Hearting wrenching and saddening documentary of a world few of us will ever experience!

Nobuyuki		09-Jul-2006 16:09
This is a hart stopping documentary work. My time stopped while I viewed these pictures.

ismael		09-Jul-2006 02:33
We have much to give in many ways, share a little of the god gave us.

SB		08-Jul-2006 18:58
The Images and comments are good to get people (all of us) to realize how very lucky we are and to show some compassion when we are able.

Guest		08-Jul-2006 18:15
totally insensitive! how would you feel if you were down and out, and got you picture taken and openly displayed in the internet.

Guest		08-Jul-2006 17:42
emotional, motivational, and unbelievable. Your portrayal hits he deep inside.

Guest		08-Jul-2006 07:01
Yes, John Such A Powerful Gallery! I feel very sad to see human beings living like this, even in the UK, we have a fair share in Cities and Towns, although i have never seen anyone who has put bolts on his fingers and leaves them there, quite disturbing!!

John Amato		08-Jul-2006 04:37
Response to comment below: I am a registered nurse. I have worked with the mentally ill and can recognize the obvious signs. I do not tag an image with this caption if it is not very clear that they have problems. I believe that a person who puts nuts from bolts on his fingers and leaves them there until the finger falls off is mentally unstable when there are many other options available. I have observed a number of these individuals on many occasions and their actions, or lack thereof, yelling and screaming at nothing everyone else can see, denotes some deep seated problems. I post these images to bring awareness and that is all. Maybe if everyone cared more and not just a few, the problem would not be so extreme and professional care would be available. There is nothing in place here for the mentally ill.

A.O.		08-Jul-2006 03:32
i am deeply angered by how you walk around snapping photos of other human beings as if you are God and then write such rude captions on them....how do you know that they are mentally ill? 'What are the dreams when you are mentally unstable and homeless?'? Treat them with more respect and remove the captions!

ken		07-Jul-2006 21:02
Striking Images. A microcosym of what our world has become. Should make anyone who can lay their head on a pillow at night thankful to God for their good fortune, while reminding us that what we do is not nearly as important as what we need to do.

Steve Bailey		07-Jul-2006 06:49
Highly emotive gallery, slighty disturbing to see mankind in this state Regards Steve

Guest		07-Jul-2006 01:45
John, thank you these powerfull images. When we see people like this, we must remember we CAN do something, even if it's merely giving them a simple meal, a snack, some water, anything - leaving it with them or near them as you pass by, or walking away & saying a prayer that they recieve a Blessing.....but we must remember to at least do SOMEthing. www.projectrice.org

Donald Verger		07-Jul-2006 00:59
vote

Unnur		06-Jul-2006 11:20
Thanks for sharing these pictures. It really makes me stop and think, think about the discrimination in the world, the harsh site of the world and that is a sight I dont often see.

Guest		05-Jul-2006 14:24
How Paris Hilton and her peers can live as they do when they could help poor people and make the world a bit better is beyond me. What a world.

John Amato		03-Jul-2006 11:21
About twice a week we take donated clothes to the poor and give money that has been donated by people from other parts of the world.

Guest		03-Jul-2006 08:02
well! you shot them to make spectaculars photographs, and how much you gave them? or what did you do for them???? so easy to make a show with people's infortune! philippe not voted , of course!!!

Ren� Gysi		02-Jul-2006 08:18
Very moving gallery. Powerful.

Jim Kramer		30-Jun-2006 14:28
The saddest part about this gallery is that you could travel to any city in the world, and shoot similar scenes. There is no shortage of poor, homeless, or destitute. You do not need to travel to China to see these images, you need only travel a few miles from where you are standing right at this very moment. Think about it. This is a fine work of art, and one that should be viewed by every single person here on PBase. Personally this has caused me to pause... and that is a good thing. I know that I take for granted the blessings I have. Thanks John, for making me stop and take notice of truly blessed I am. VOTED.

Guest		01-Jun-2006 17:00
I wonder if Paris Hilton has seen this?Talk about justice.

Guest		01-Jun-2006 16:59
Oh God!

Guest		01-Jun-2006 00:17
This such a disturbing gallery. Beautiful, humane, sensitive and so haunting. Thank you for sharing a piece of life in the world.

G�nter Hofst�dter		29-May-2006 10:14
What shall I say! You really captured the poor, which is quite shocking seeing the pictures one after another.

Guest		27-May-2006 00:01
John: This must be one of the finest galleries at entire PBase ! This is the work of a true artist ! Espen.

Ali Majdfar		20-Apr-2006 08:15
Sensational gallery of modernisation victims; thanks for sharing.

Guest		25-Mar-2006 01:57
Wonderful gallery. Very moving

Long Bach Nguyen		17-Mar-2006 16:22
These are powerful pictures of the harsh condition people have to endure in all part of the world and this is a small sample China. Good job on the presentation of the difficult subject. Cheers, Long

Guest		17-Mar-2006 16:17
I count my blessings, powerful and emotive gallery

Beth W.		10-Feb-2006 07:03
Wow...I am speechless. Hard to believe that this is everyday life for these people. So very sad.

Guest		09-Feb-2006 15:56
Powerful.

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