Homeless Adventure

[jjeling]

I went downtown again today to get a few more pictures of the city. While I was down on the river, I ran into a friendly homeless guy that goes by the name Highway. He asked me what I was taking pictures of and I said anything and everything and am just out looking for an adventure. After some more talking he said if I wanted some adventure, he would be more than happy to let me follow him around the city and take pictures of him. It sounds kind of risky, but at the same time EXTREMELY interesting. It is hard to say no as a photographer to turn this down. He wants to meet at a McDonalds tomorrow at 8:45 then Ill just walk around with him from there. He explained about some shady deals he makes as he is a 'professional' panhandler. Im assuming Ill probably end up around some pretty repulsive things, but would make an excellent set of images for a portfolio. Just not sure what kind of liability it would be having nice equipment knowing I would run into some serious junkies to say the least. It is something I really want to do, but am considering the risk as well. What do you guys think? As a person without any media or law enforcement affiliation, am I at risk if something happens while I out with him? I would really like some input before I go to bed. Thanks again everyone.

[BlueX]

I personally wouldn't go because I am a little paranoid. It sounds kinda like a set up to me. Plus you don't know how desperate some of these people might be and what they wouldn't do for a camera that's worth a few hundred bucks. If you go, take precautions before hand.

[AcadieLibre]

I would do it, but thats me. If your not willing to take risks oh well maybe a missed opportunity you might regret. I have done homeless shots and I always ask and I am sure I will be doing more sometime soon. It is your choice in the end, you need to know if you are comfortable, we can all give you opinions but in the end it is a choice you will have to make.

[Mad Aussie]

You could turn up ... but with some backup. A mate who know how to 'help' if things get rough.

Like you said, junkies are desperate people. As BlueX said, it sounds like a great setup ... "Hey little boy who doesn't look like he could take on several tough streeters ... bring your really expensive camera gear and follow me to where my mates will jump you and take your stuff so we can split the cash"

You could meet him at Macca's perhaps WITHOUT any camera gear first and see if he's still willing to allow you to come along. If he shows any sign of being annoyed then you know you made the right choice and should leave.

Personally, I'd simply follow him without him knowing and see where he goes for an hour or so ... then meet him another day at YOUR chosen spot with the camera and see if he'll allow you to take a few shots right there and then.

As you said, he's a pro panhandler ... being on the street doesn't make him stupid.

[jjeling]

I think I will probably go and meet him and walk around a few parts of downtown where I know are pretty good. I will probably only spend an hour or two with him and then split. There are some parts around here I will refuse to go. He was a nice guy, but he is homeless for a reason. He mentioned that he had just 'kicked' herion, HA! There were a few things that erked me but I can get past that if we stay around the parts where I feel comfortable. Anyways, it should be interesting. I will try and get the shots up in tomorrow night or Wednesday. Wish me luck, Ill need it.

[Mad Aussie]

That sounds sensible enough. Would still like to see you take a mate with you.

Only 'nice' people make good con men mate!

[jjeling]

I would like to as well, anyone I would ask would either be at work, or would not want to wake up that early. Im not too pressed about anything as long as its just him, which is the way I plan to keep it. If anything does happen, cameras make good clubs! HAHAHA!!! On a serious note, Im not too worried about it. Avoiding sketchy situations has always been a Ace card Ive carried around for a while. Size, shape, and fitness are on my side so if its just him its not a problem. Going to be a fun one for sure, he just needs to show up.

[jjeling]

Well....It didnt happen. He wasnt there. I drove around hoping maybe I could find him walking around, but didnt have any luck. Maybe next time. Guess thats what you get for making plans with a homeless guy.

[AcadieLibre]

I would have parked, grabbed my camera and went exploring anyway.

[jjeling]

Ive spent almost 12 just walking around the past three days. Spent an hour and a half just driving around today. Today was more about finding where I want to go next. Ill be exploring more dont worry. Its time to change the pace and get out of downtown and into the residential areas anyways.

[Marko]

Well....It didnt happen. He wasnt there. I drove around hoping maybe I could find him walking around, but didnt have any luck. Maybe next time. Guess thats what you get for making plans with a homeless guy.

That's too bad. I too would have gone for the adventure. But ya never know, it could still happen in the future. I'd be prepared to give the guy a few bucks if it did work out though....

[JAS_Photo]

Lol, bring cigarettes too. :) those guys generally have a territory, so if you wander around in the same area you will find him again more than likely. I like to wander in the downtown core, up and down alleys etc. If I inadvertantly come across a homeless/street person or persons I just say 'Hi How are you doing' etc. or 'good morning' and they do the same. Almost every time I go out to shoot, a street person comes along and asks me what I am doing. They are very bold in that respect. I generally do not photograph them, but most are willing to be photographed especially for a bit of coin.

Also, I would say if you are in area you consider 'rough' dress the part. Do not stand out. Carry your camera in a duffle bag or beat up looking knapsack. Treat the people you see respectfully. Do not have a look on about that says, "Oh noes I may get jumped!" If you get a bad feeling about the situation, just move on. Don't be a hero. :)

[tomorrowstreasures]

Lol, bring cigarettes too. :) those guys generally have a territory, so if you wander around in the same area you will find him again more than likely. I like to wander in the downtown core, up and down alleys etc. If I inadvertantly come across a homeless/street person or persons I just say 'Hi How are you doing' etc. or 'good morning' and they do the same. Almost every time I go out to shoot, a street person comes along and asks me what I am doing. They are very bold in that respect. I generally do not photograph them, but most are willing to be photographed especially for a bit of coin.

Also, I would say if you are in area you consider 'rough' dress the part. Do not stand out. Carry your camera in a duffle bag or beat up looking knapsack. Treat the people you see respectfully. Do not have a look on about that says, "Oh noes I may get jumped!" If you get a bad feeling about the situation, just move on. Don't be a hero. :)

really good advice here, raiven!

[jjeling]

Actually when I met the guy I offered him some cigarettes, he turned them down as he already had a pack and some beer. He turned down everything and had a full stomach too. Apparently the guy knows how to panhandle quite well and I would hope so after 18 years of being homeless. Ill be down there again and will run into several more without a question. Thanks for all the advice and support. Its been really appreciated.