I started with a point and shoot camera and an empty passport when I retired in 2003. Since that time I have graduated to full frame mirrorless cameras and traveled to 87 countries. I call myself a travel photographer.

When people look at my photographs, I want them to be standing in my shoes, holding a camera and looking at the same people I saw. Envision their world. Focus on people’s faces, their posture and expressions.

One of my objectives as a photographer is to stir an emotion within you. I want you to have an awareness and a reaction to the people whose lives and environments are different from ours.

The ability to step out of my comfort zone has been a guiding principle of my photography for more than twenty years. Once I began using a camera, my view of the world shifted. My curiosity grew. My vision went beyond just seeing a beautiful landscape. I saw a world that is much more about the human condition in its myriad complexities. That’s when I knew I wanted to take photographs of people.

I’m not afraid to approach a stranger. Communicating with a friendly greeting and a warm smile puts people at ease and helps me establish a connection. Humor can also mitigate any tension or alleviate skepticism. I want people to enjoy connecting with me as much as I savor our interaction. I also convey my honesty about wanting to take their photograph.

Expressing sincere interest in the people I meet is my way to show respect, which is essential to establish trust. Respect and trust are necessary elements for my photographs to show people’s humanity and give them a voice to tell their stories.