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I am a native San Franciscan. Since becoming a photographer I’ve found The City always ready for her close-up, blemishes and all. I love doing shots here— can’t let tourists have all the fun.
More by Walter Mackins
This photo of the man holding (hugging) the tree gets to me. I too hug trees. However, this photo seems almost to be an intrusion on the subject’s privacy. I say this because I have myself experienced the deep effects that ‘hugging’ a tree has on one’s being. I can only wish the subject all the best. My heart goes out to him. He looks like someone who has greatly suffered but who is finding some peace as he holds this tree. Whether one can sense the energies of the tree or not, it can sure feel like it. You ought to try it.
I feel a great sense of energy when I’m riding– or even in the presence of– horses. You should try it sometime.
He saw me walking by with my camera and asked to have his picture taken— so I obliged. As I prepared to shoot, he spontaneously struck that pose, then said, “OK, go ahead and take it [the photo] now.”After I did so, he thanked me. I only wish I’d gotten his name. I too wish him well.