Danny Lyon is an amazing documentary photographer. Back in the 1960's he began creating his own books. His first, was a study of outlaw motorcyclists called The Bikeriders, where Lyon did more than just photograph motorcyclists in the American Midwest from 1963 to 1967. Additionally, he also became a member of the Chicago Outlaws motorcycle club and traveled with them, sharing their lifestyle. Well, I didn't do that. I was driving from Flagstaff to Phoenix when I noticed a group of 4 or 5 motorcycles in the rearview mirror coming up behind me. I had my toy camera with me, and I got it ready. While looking out the windshield to see where I was going, I pointed the camera out my side window and clicked off one frame as each of the motorcycles passed me on the left, without looking. I wish I could claim I saw the other bike in the side view mirror! But I didn't. But it makes the shot!
In barely over a split second, four thoughts came to mind: 1) Black & White is perfect for this scene, 2) Wow- great effect of seeing both the guy along side and the on-coming bikers in the rearview mirror, 3) Were you steering with your left hand and shooting with your right hand or visa-versa?, 4) It's a very good thing the biker didn't see you taking his picture - your day might not have ended well!
ReplyDeleteI found your documentary photo to be thoroughly entertaining and a visual treat!!!
Primo! Thanks for your nice comments! Steering with left hand, holding the camera with my right. All the Danny Lyon photographs of bikers were in black & white, so, if I am going to pretend I am shooting his way...
ReplyDeleteI love your honesty!! Great shot! bsk
ReplyDelete