I call it a zither because that's what it looks most like but I'm sure it is a Chinese instrument with a long history. This Chinese gentleman was playing it quite beautifully to an uninterested crowd passing by on their way to the local shrine. I wish you could hear it, but I think this shot at least captures what a very fine man he was.
Thanks, Rob. He was a really gifted gentleman, and his wife obviously loved and respected him. She was an old dear, clucking and fussing around him--and wouldn't hear of being included in the photo. You didn't miss that many photos of mine because I've been desperately busy at work, and have also started taking very time-consuming MF panoramas, which slows me down a lot. Another half dozen will be back from the lab tomorrow. Plus a set of stereo slides... Both no good for Usefilm, alas.
I hope he did not miss a tone while looking at you. Great photo the movement of the hands and the still body gives it a dynamic lively touch. Nice colors and exposure. Sorry to have missed so many of your photos while I was on vacation. Regards, Rob.
Thanks for the comment Gib. That wooden frame was a problem. I deliberately placed it where it is as the least of the evils... His hair was so black that it got lost against the darker background outside the frame, and besides, not making it, er, "frame" his head in that way it somehow became MORE obtrusive. Sometimes you can't win... I did want to keep this general perspective, so as to capture his expression, his hands AND the zither, so I didn't have the freedom to cut out the frame altogether. I think I should have opened up to full aperture and used a higher shutter speed to blur the frame more, but THEN of course I wouldn't have got the rest all so sharp, and the slight motion blur of the hands would have been gone. It's all compromises, right? Please don't think I'm being defensive; I appreciate and agree with your comment but did want to let you know some of the other considerations I had...
a small thought....the wooden frame in the background immediately behind his head is a slight distraction...a slight shift in your position might have de-emphasized it. I noticed this, perhaps over noticed it, because it is something I tend to let slip into quite a few of my people shots.
The question is, does he take it hither and thither, this zither?! (Now try to say that a few times after a couple of sakis!) But, seriously, Roger. I see a profound analogy in what you've said about this man's playing and your postings!! You load up some beautiful pictures but, sadly, to a largely disinterested crowd who pass them by on their way to the shrines partially dressed women, bright sunsets, and the like! Whoops, better stop before I get too cynical!! A fine picture as always? Kind regards, Chris
0
Enjoy {K:16125} 6/20/2004
This is neat....and a crystal clear picture..well done..all that is missing is the sound... =))
0 
