Don’t Forget the Hands: They Can Tell an Incredible Story

Going through images for my new Moo cards, I noticed I have a lot of photos of hands.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama gives a scarf to a little girl behind the Benedict Music Tent in Aspen, Colo.

One of my photo teachers at Western Kentucky University discussed the importance of symbolism in photojournalism. It helps connect viewers with the subjects as it threads a common bond.

Vietnam Veteran Howie Berg of Aspen, Colo., pauses as he builds the Vietnam Veteran's Memorial Traveling Wall at Rio Grande Park in Aspen.

Hands are a good way to do this. The can show hope, despair, tragedy, anger, and a myriad of other emotions.

Antiwar demonstrators give peace signs as they confront the police during the Democratic National Convention in Denver, Colo.

While working on photo projects, I spend a little time watching my subjects hands. I observe how the use them. How they hold them.

His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama in Aspen, Colo.

Do they talk with them? Do they fold them quietly in their laps as they discuss days gone by? What do they do with them?

Playing basketball in Bowling Green, Ky.

And sometimes the little detail can tell a larger story. Paying attention can help you capture some incredible images.

Rico Gallegos chooses a chess piece while playing in Old Colorado City, Colo.

When out and about practicing your photography, don’t forget to watch your subjects hands.

Bingo master George Heimann keeps track of what was called during Bingo hour at the Pitkin County Senior Center in Aspen, Colo.

Given one too many assignments at the local senior center? A perfect opportunity to watch your subjects closely. You’ll surprise yourself by capturing an image that is new and fresh

You may be quite surprised at what you capture.

Thanks for stopping by

Paul Conrad

Pablo Conrad Photography