I pondered for a while about whether or not to include this image as part of my #creative366project album. On one hand, this is a serious situation, and personal as well (for the person on the ground). On the other hand, it was an unusual event, and something that I did not want to forget.
I was on the subway and this was the first thing I saw immediately upon stepping out at Ginza on Sunday. I already had my camera in hand at the time and instinctively fired off a shot, without even thinking. I then felt awkward, because it was obviously a serious situation.
As I walked past, additional train attendants dashed by with blankets to form a "screen" of sorts around the prone man, and then people wearing paramedic uniforms and carrying AED/defibrillators followed them moments later.
I chose not to hang around because it felt ghoulish, and simply not appropriate. However, I can't help but wonder what happened to the man. When one generally comes across people in this position on the subway, it's usually because they've had a tipple (or five) too many. Given the paramedics rushing to the scene, perhaps the man experienced a heart attack?
Either way, I don't think I'll ever know. But I do wonder.
In album Creative 366 Project (1 photo)
April 22, 2012 – To post or not to post?
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6 Comments
Photography is not just an expressive art form, it is also a way to record time and history. Good or bad!
Yes +Michael Ratcliff , I feel the same way. The challenge for me is to record while still being respectful of the situation. Or at least, try to do it with useful purpose, rather than just for the kicks.
You captured this scene in a way that's not exploitive, so if I were in your situation, I would have posted it. But then again, my moral standard is probably somewhat lower than yours! But I love the movement in the photo, it gives the scene a sense of urgency.
Thanks +Joanne Yu , much appreciated 🙂
i've been in similar situations. you seem to have handled it with the respect it required.
Thanks +hikaru starr .