Down, but not out.
The ethics here are simple. I make a generous donation then ask if I can snap their picture. If they refuse, fine, we part on good terms. In practice they are almost always happy to pose. A lively chat invariably ensues, they fascinated by my English accent, I by their stories.
All on the Nikon D3x with the Nikkor 16-35G lens at the f/4 full aperture.
What a great way to start the new year: capturing the character of some of our less fortunate brothers in black and white, in a wonderfully rich tonal scale.
Yes, brothers: today I was shooting at Laguna Beach, one of my favorite places this time of the year, and I was called brother by one. It felt good.
The richness of the midtone range brings out the deep humanity of the subjects, and helps the viewer relate to their state of mind.
I believe the smiles and optimism on their faces is not related to the recent donation (nobody can “buy” that look), but it reflects the hope induced by the stories exchanged with the photographer.