Cordiality is Contagious
Project 365 – Day 29
Ever watchful for my daily image, I saw a beautiful curving walkway while at an appointment today. I fetched my little X100s from the messenger bag, and I began exploring and experimenting.
I photographed this area for a good 10 minutes, at which point I heard a very polite, “Sir, may I help you?” It was a security guard. It is not uncommon for commercial property owners to frown upon a snooping photographer hanging around studying and shooting. This is completely understandable in this age of high tech security breaches.
As the guard asked his question a second time, I turned and greeted him. He gently asked what I was doing. I said, “This architecture is great, so I thought I would grab a few photos.” I confirmed the images were simply for my own pleasure, not for sale or commercial use. He was such a gentleman. He told me he was sure there was no harm, and that the property manager would likely permit me to shoot if I would ask in advance. The security guard then apologetically asked me to stop shooting until I sought permission inside. I said, “No problem. I have what I want. It didn’t even dawn on me this would be a concern.”
I’ve had run-ins before when shooting inside or around a business. They are almost always confrontational. Security starts the conversation with an attitude, and it degrades from there. But today was different. This kind soul was not accusatory. He was cordial, cheerful and respectful. Hopefully he would say I returned in kind.
As they say, one attracts more flies with honey than vinegar.
Proverbs 11
Fuji Xx100s, 23mm f/2.0, 1/100 sec @ f/11, ISO800


Like you, I’ve had similar confrontations when shooting in downtown Tampa. But my dealings were more on the negative side, with threats of confiscating my gear. Yes, I understand the concerns but a simple “I’m sorry but you cannot…” would have worked just the same and gone a long way.
Nice image….do like the leading lines with the curve of the walkway.