After my little street photography session yesterday, I got caught up in a storm. Heavy rains that made everyone in the city immediately take shelter. Cracks of thunder above. Flashes of lightning mixed with the artificial lighting that switched tones ever dew seconds. Armenians hate rain, like it's a poison to them. The streets empty up fast. I loved it though. I walked in it, taking bits of shelter here and there so I didn't get too wet. I couldn't go home at that point, so I figured I'll make the best of it. So I shot these as I waited for things to clear up, waiting for a chance to walk to the bus stop without getting seriously drenched, and alongside the camera and gear in my backpack. I'm surprised I didn't get too wet, actually.
I had to keep dipping in and out of the rain for these shots. Everyone that remained in the area hid underneath whatever shelter there was on the main street or underground in a shopping area. I switched to soviet lenses knowing here the bokeh and atmosphere would really shine through. This meant manual focus on everything. Being quick and on my feet if I saw potential. Especially with people moving in front of me, measuring the distance and guessing. I actually really like these images as a result. Especially with the mix of reflections and the artificial lighting. The vintage glass made things softer, added more bloom to the light.
It can still be a bit limiting at times here with the main street emptying up so all. Where there is only really one street with strong lighting on it. It means being more creative with what I do see, working with what I have. Knowing I have to mix them up one way or another to avoid them feeling repetitive either now or in the future as I shoot more on such streets. I can see why photography here is a niche hobby and profession. It's not exactly the easiest environment to work with. It's certainly no New York City. But this means there is more opportunity for those who do think out of the box more. Those who do find creative ways to show the people and city that they're also so familiar with. To make them question locations even if they're explored them to death themselves.
I think the rain helps here too, where it makes the types of photographs to be taken more fun. I don't think Yerevan is a particularly beautiful city. It's void of life and colour through most of it. This is why so many cling to the one street with some life there. Rain at least can open the door to different weather and conditions. Hopefully this does change in the future, I do think it's lacking. I do think it's why so many photographers here don't end up thinking beyond, a bit too familiar with their surroundings and almost imprisoned by their own mentality. It is what it is, I guess.
