So I had to photograph a City Council meeting. Usually a yawner but this one was a bit more lively than usual. I was there for item No. 11, budget proposals. In other words they were cutting public transportation, raising fees, consolidation but mainly the cuts to the bus service.
It was a painful day for all. You could see the strain in the council members faces and the angst with the crowd.
I stood at the front of the meeting where I could have an eye on the council members as well as the crowd. I needed to be in a spot where I could see all faces all the time. I was looking for a reaction image.
It's interesting aiming you camera in a room which is mostly silent and the camera is clicking away. It's a bit disconcerting especially when getting glances back from people who obviously don't like being photographed.
A big sigh of relief, for better or worse, was felt at the end of the discussion and the vote. But then reality set in. The council was obviously upset as demonstrated by Margaret Radford as she leans back in her chair and Cynthia Barram who put her hand to her face with the realization she will not be able to use the public transportation system to get back and forth to college. She's in a wheelchair and it will be more difficult for her than most.
These are tough times but I will reiterate. We need photojournalists in our society to be there to document the rollercoaster that is life.
I can only hope through my work someone will be able to help Cynthia. It's why I do what I do.
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