joyful2beeblogs

Capturing the facial expressions of people is one of my guilty pleasures. They are fascinating. Often while waiting for someone or some event, I observe people and find it a delightful hobby.

Their facial expressions, the way they move, the clothes they are wearing, what they are holding in their hands and who they are with can be clues to who they are, what they are doing and why they are doing it.

My observation skills were sharpened further when I became a nurse. Observation of my patients, their expressions, skin tone, fidgeting, tone of voice, the way they moved, their reactions to the medicines or treatments  must be done to help them were all clues that could help me prevent a little problem from becoming a big problem!

The faces, eyes, and body language can portray so much about what people are feeling. The following are pictures I took on various occasions. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did capturing their expressions.

This boy had been moving a small hand held fan back and forth on the huge glass wall of the aquarium. The sea otter followed it repeatedly wherever the boy moved with the fan. This little girl was so amazed at the “magic” the boy used to make the otter go wherever he wanted. I loved her expression of wonder and awe.

This fire swallower was performing at a Renaissance Fair. He was quite funny and charming. He had the audience’s full attention here. I loved the various responses of the three ladies watching him. I bet he would have enjoyed seeing their faces too.

This potter at Old Salem, NC was demonstrating how his work was done in the sunlight coming through the window, just like in colonial times. I loved the expression on his face of focus, pride and dedication to his work.

I enjoy the young dancers at Diwali Festivals. The children begin at a very early age learning each tiny move of their hands, head, body and feet to perform when they are ready. These young ladies were about to perform and had just adjusted their jewelry and turned away. The girlish chatting and laughter had been replaced with last minute nerves as they focused on the dance before them.

 

Amazing belly dancer with a sword. I have long been fascinated by belly dancing. This performer was amazing in her balance, movements and skills. The audience was entranced by her movements to the music.

 

This beautiful young lady was having her hair fixed by an older woman, (perhaps her mother). I love the strength and confidence her face expresses and the loving pride in the mother’s(?) face as well. I have tried to find this woman to give her a copy of this because it is one of my favorites and I wish I could thank her for such a lovely story in one picture.

 

Years ago my friend and I went to Boulder during a fall festival. We watched this performer do all kinds of contortions and then fire swallowing feats. While he rested in this position, I pointed to my camera asking if I could photograph him. He nodded and gave me the “look.” I don’t know what he was thinking but I sure would love to find out. LOL !

Try observing people sometime. I think you may find a new hobby too. People’s faces can be fascinating, enigmatic, and wonderful!