The doctor is in! He has a sure-fire cure for whatever ails you! His large selection of Fetishes includes but is not limited to, amulets, animal skulls, furs, idols, and such that will ward away all the evil spirits that are affecting his patient. Fetish Markets are common in Togo and other West African countries. I visited such a market and was quite surprised to see a large number of patrons, who believe in this traditional medicine, as modern healthcare is relatively unavailable in Togo, causing many people to opt for this service when ill. The image displays the wares of this traditional medicine-man. It is interesting to note, that these cures are based in voodoo, still practiced in Ghana, Togo and Benin, and which was brought to the New World with the slaves.
Gear: SONY a-7 IV, FE 24-240 lens opened to 47 mm.
Data: ISO 200, f 8, 1/320
Metering: Pattern
WB: Manual, measured directly, specific Kelvin Temperature not recorded, but probably around 5,500oK
EV: -.3
Date: February 24, 2024.
This round’s discussion is now closed! 10 comments posted
Dr Edward Goldenberg
Alan your technical ability always amazes me. I wonder what the image would have looked like on auto or shutter priority would have looked like. To my eye it looks like you are shooting from the left side of the image cutting of some of the voodoo wares. Perhaps a straight on shot would have given a more inclusive image Posted: 04/04/2024 11:10:00
Alan Lichtenstein
Ed, I don't know what shutter priority would look like because I generally compensate to underexpose a small bit, so I will rarely use that. I don't recall where I was standing, but I really didn't have time to better compose the shot. And thanks for your compliment. Posted: 04/04/2024 12:42:33
Susan Albert
Alan, Your image's composition is strong. Including the sign helps identify the location. Posted: 04/04/2024 11:32:44
Alan Lichtenstein
Susan, I likely would never have submitted this image if the sign wasn't there to identify the location. Posted: 04/04/2024 12:44:10
Pamela Liu
Alan, The image of the traditional medicine shop in Toga presents a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and practices of the region. The composition skillfully captures the essence of the place, inviting viewers into a world steeped in tradition and history.
The foreground showcases the intricate details of the shop's architecture, adorned with vibrant colors and ornate designs characteristic of the area. From the weathered wooden facade to the intricately carved signboard, every element tells a story of craftsmanship and local craftsmanship.
The image successfully captures the essence of the traditional medicine shop, but cropping the sky to emphasize the ground would further enhance its storytelling potential and draw viewers deeper into the scene. Posted: 04/07/2024 08:25:19
Pamela Liu
Alan, The image of the traditional medicine shop in Toga presents a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and practices of the region. The composition skillfully captures the essence of the place, inviting viewers into a world steeped in tradition and history.
The foreground showcases the intricate details of the shop's architecture, adorned with vibrant colors and ornate designs characteristic of the area. From the weathered wooden facade to the intricately carved signboard, every element tells a story of craftsmanship and local craftsmanship.
The image successfully captures the essence of the traditional medicine shop, but cropping the sky to emphasize the ground would further enhance its storytelling potential and draw viewers deeper into the scene. Posted: 04/07/2024 08:25:21
Alan Lichtenstein
Pamela, most of my images are hand-held and taken 'on the fly,' during group tours. Due to the presence of many people composition suffers as I have to capture the image or risk not getting a decent image at all. Posted: 04/08/2024 06:28:40
Mandy Vien
Hi Alan, very interesting image. Everything is in focus and makes me want to examine each of them, wondering if they are real bone or craft. Indeed you have a very good photo for PTD. Posted: 04/07/2024 21:14:30
Alan Lichtenstein
Mandy, most are bone from what was explained to us. Posted: 04/08/2024 06:24:40
Dr. Isaac Vaisman
Alan, interesting image indeed with unusual paraphernalia. I really do not have any additional input from what has already being said. The white large sign really gives the location and nature of the items. Posted: 04/26/2024 05:11:17
