I saw this woman sitting on a bench, staring at the wall of a shop. Lost in thoughts.
My first reaction was to admire her beautiful face, and for that, I wanted to make a gorgeous portrait.
As always, I tried to make eye contact to ask if I could make the photo. No reaction. I shot it anyway. No response.
I felt sad, looking at her when I noticed that her absent expression perhaps denoted unhappiness, anger or just loneliness. I sat on the bench and stayed there a few more minutes, just looking at her, to keep her (unsolicited) company.
“When we are unhappy, we can’t help thinking that certain images are armed with claws and stingers to torture us with.”
–Alain
Sights & Insights 
I must admit she doesn’t look too happy, great portrait though because it makes you wonder….
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This is a beautiful portrait Lucile. You have captured a moment we can probably all relate to.
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Timeworn expression indeed. Lovely capture, Lucile!
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Poignant story and sadly beautiful portrait Lucile.
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Very sad feel here for sure. She is sharply dressed, making me think she has her life together in some (small) way. At least that’s what I hope for when I see her.
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No. I’m going the other way on this one. I don’t think she’s not happy. I think she just doesn’t look happy. When you reach a certain age (it’s different for us all), the sides of your mouth begin to turn down. Sag. Like some other parts of our bodies. My parts are beginning to sag.
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That’s also possible. All you said is true. Except about yourself as I cannot confirm that. 😉
What drew my attention though, was her eyes’ expression. She was looking at a wall. Focused. Pensive.
But thanks for bringing another perspective, which might as well be the case.
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I think she has had some tough years…her striped shirt too tells me she is a strict and very determined lady.
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