Why do I love Cuba? The people. This year, I knew a bit more Spanish and was able to communicate a little better. Not great, but enough to understand just how important it is to learn more for my next trip. The woman on the right in the image above caught my eye, she was beautiful. When I engaged her, she was proud to tell me she was “noventa tres” or ninety three. I smiled and said, “mi madre tambian es noventa tres” or my mother is 93 also. This led to a longer conversation of which I did not understand much. That simple connection lead to smiles and gratitude for the Fuji Instax picture I took and left with them. The woman on the left is her daughter. The hands below belong to her mother. What a story they tell!
Love the way it portrays their pride!! You can feel their smiles!
Thank you Howard.
Very special story and beautiful image!!
Thank you sweetie!
John, beautiful images.
Thank you Madeline.
Beautiful story too!
Thank you Cynthia! 🙂
Am enjoying seeing your Cuban people. They are radiant. You might enjoy looking up Jim Spillane’s photography. He photographs people around the world. He always shows their pride and dignity. His great respect for his subjects is obvious. He photographs other subjects beautifully as well. If you do, read his story about why he chose his line of photography. You have been taking some great trips!
Thank you Peggy. I have been blessed. 🙂
They are both beautiful women! The 93 year old Mama still cares enough about her looks to have a set of artificial nails!
Yes, indeed, they are both beautiful. Thanks for stopping by..
I have Cuban neighbors who are the kindest, most hospitable of people. Love you photos.
Cubans are indeed very kind.
Great work as always, John ! And there is much to admire in both of your images. I was particularly struck by your treatment of the mother’s hands. It is certainly a beautiful image that captures a lifetime of stories. Hands worn with time such as hers might have tempted another photographer to go for the harsh and overly dramatic. You, instead, treated her with great kindness and respect. BZ to you for taking the gentle route. Slainte !
Great observation Bruce. Thank you!
Beautiful, John! Wouldn’t you love to know the mama’s story! When was she married? What did she do for work? How has her life changed in the last few years? What does she know of the rest of the world? What is her favorite dish? I’d love to have a few hours to chat with her! And I love your people photographs, John.
Thank you Janice! I did the best I could to chat for quite awhile. 🙂