Φωτογραφίες

Here is another shot from the women's weaving project cooperative in Ruhengeri, Northern Rwanda.

This really was a great project to shoot as the women and children were both open to having photos taken of them, as well as they appreciated why were were doing it. The principle of our project was to get photos of women working in their environment in developing cooperatives in Rwanda. Once we explained, through and interpretor, their faces just lit up and were generally touched by the sentiment. Then we also explained that the photo display would be for international women's day in Kigali hosted by the Canadians, then they were amazed that some white people would come out and do this. They were equally surprised when we mentioned we would come back with photos.

We took this series during the "winter" holidays, therefore many had brought their kids to work with them. On the other hand, many cannot actually afford schooling or the clothing and amenities that go with it, so they will stay with their mothers until they are able to pick up another trade or learn that of their fathers.

Situations like these are sometimes a pain as they know you are there to take photos, so most just stare, and when you point the camera at their smile, it disappears. It is helpful when shooting with another photographer as one can shoot straight on, while the other in some way piggybacks and shooting the reactions to the first photographers "antics".

Let me know what you think of the shot or if you too have any stories from africa!

-Adam