This month I bought a new laptop and have started the process of backing up and transferring photos. I was a little concerned that my photo count was getting close to 50,000 RAW images, all of which take time and money to back up. One folder, aptly named ‘Book‘, contained 3000 images of people I worked with whilst photographing for the project ‘The Bangaloreans’. Needless to say, not every image was perfect!

The missing shots, poorly focussed or framed images, those featuring people with their eyes closed of faces screwed up have now been safely culled and discarded on the editing room floor. I will now take the opportunity to share a few of my favorite pics and characters. Part 1: Diane…

Diane: The Hijra (Transexual)

It is not everyday that you get to watch a Hijra get ready for a day’s work. It was a privilege to see this lady prepare, if at times a little awkward. Inside Diane’s home there was a large image of another lady of whom I guessed would be a close friend or relative. How wrong I was, the lady featured was someone who had wronged Diane and the picture was hung on the wall to be cursed at every opportunity. Blessing and cursing are two things the Hijra are well qualified in.

Shooting Conditions

When out taking photos for ‘The Bangalorean’s’ there were few perfect locations for photography. Diane’s house was small and the lighting less than perfect. The above image was taken outside in natural lighting when she was finished getting ready for the day. It was still early in the morning and I think the image is flattering, although there are traces of a harsh life on her face.

Once ready, Kaveri and I spent the day following Diane as she blessed stall owners at a local market. Apparently, as the Hijra’s have had ‘ something removed’ they gain the ability to bless or curse. I’m not sure if science backs this theory up, but would rather not do anything to invoke the spirits. It was obvious that the market workers all respected Diane and would hand over small amounts of cash to be blessed, or have a curse undone. Here I was taking photos in my favorite environment, outside and wondering a market, capturing everyday life.

Please keep an eye out for ‘Part 2’, where I will look at another of my favorite characters from ‘The Bangaloreans.

Take care and keep clicking, Chris. xxx