Picture of the Week #353 "Relaxing in Cairo"  Cairo, Egypt 1989 Signed & Stamped

When I was in Egypt to see the Pyramids in Giza, I also took time to roam the streets of Cairo taking pictures. People, are always what interest me and my work. I walked all over without a guide and without fear, snapping away. I don't know if I could do that today as the environment has changed so drastically. This man relaxing his feet had an authoritative air about him and having his feet resting on a little platform just enhanced my belief that he was the head honcho at this cafe.

Picture of the Week # 352 "Picasso Eyes"  Kathmandu, Nepal 2000 Signed & Stamped

This Monk's searing eyes burned towards me and reminded me of the intense stare and eyes of my hero Pablo Picasso. Sadly much of Kathmandu was ruined in the earthquake earlier this year. As you can see behind him the bricks are already crumbling. I doubt if this structure survived. I only hope that he did. Supposedly these monks do not bathe, but for some reason they never smell. May peace prevail not only in this volatile section of the world, but everywhere.

Picture of the Week #351 " Camel Driver" Giza, Egypt 1989 Signed & Stamped

On my 1989 Around the World venture I had stopped in Cairo and of course went to Giza to see the Pyramids. I had a young boy of about 14 or 15 as my camel driver. But when we weren't bouncing up and down and was back on firm ground,  I was able to walk among the other drivers and take photos. This camel driver's face said so much about his life. All of my photos back then were shot on 35mm transparency film. Slides. Not the best quality for doing very large prints but for this image at 13" x 19" it was perfect. I'd love to go back and bring my darling wife Ann as this trip was before she and I met. I know there's hazards there now, especially for Americans, but the picture rewards could be substantial.

Picture of the Week # 350 "Elaborate Couple" Venice, Italy 2011 Signed & Stamped

The Carnivale in Venice is still one of the best events that I was fortunate to have been to. Here is a couple who really out did themselves. As I have posted other images from this Carnivale I am sure that I said how much fun it was and how inspiring for my picture taking. I had 306 people pose for me during the 6 days that I was there. I am still stymied by all of the masks that we hide behind and what these festival goers are really thinking as they parade around St. Mark's Square on a very cold but sunny day.

Picture of the Week # 349 "Hanging Out"  Los Angeles, California 1984 Signed & Stamped

Downtown LA was just starting to happen and I was down there scouting around when I saw these hangers sticking out of the window in what I presume was one of many garment center buildings. I took the photo and left. Now 31 years later I decided to present you with this rather fun image that will undoubtedly be in my "Pictures That Make You Smile" portfolio when it's published. At least now you can enjoy it.