Tom Tauber, APSA, MPSA  


Street Musician in Havana by Tom Tauber, APSA, MPSA

April 2024 - Street Musician in Havana

About the Image(s)

Sony A1, Sony 24-105 mm @ 46mm, 1/160, f/7.1, ISO 125

My wife and I visited Cuba a month ago. Havana is a really interesting place, mixture of past glory and contemporary neglect and poverty. Great photographic opportunities.


This round’s discussion is now closed!
9 comments posted




Alan Lichtenstein   Alan Lichtenstein
Tom, your image while representing something taken as a result of travel, it is an excellent example of good street photography. Therefore, I'm wondering if it shouldn't have been converted to monochrome? It tells a story of the subject, and that is what good street photography does. Technically, it's well-composed and I wouldn't do anything with it, except a possible change to monochrome.   Posted: 04/02/2024 07:48:52
Dr. Isaac Vaisman   Dr. Isaac Vaisman
Alan, it is allowed for you to present the image with the suggested adjustments.   Posted: 04/03/2024 07:58:43



Dr. Isaac Vaisman   Dr. Isaac Vaisman
Tom, that door step is used by many of the Cuban Artist's to sit there and perform waiting for you to pass by. Of course the flag gives the location, since the ethnicity we can find in any of the Spanish influenced Islands in the Caribbean. In addition to Travel Photography and Street Photography as Alan indicated, this one will work well in Photo Journalism, specially of Human Interest.
I just corrected the verticals and transformed to B&W as Alan requested in Adobe Camera Raw   Posted: 04/03/2024 08:03:17
Comment Image



Dr Edward Goldenberg   Dr Edward Goldenberg
I like Isaac's comment making it a universal image fitting into all categories including color which I think adds to the dynamics of the image.   Posted: 04/04/2024 11:19:59



Susan Albert   Susan Albert
Tom, I prefer your color image over the B&W conversion. Great composition. I'm drawn to the colors and textures as well as the subject's expression. Very sharp.   Posted: 04/04/2024 13:07:34



Pamela Liu   Pamela Liu
The image of the street musician in Havana, Cuba, undoubtedly captures a poignant narrative amidst its vibrant backdrop. The composition, featuring a musician playing the guitar in front of a green door against a yellow wall, immediately draws the viewer's attention. However, it is the subtle yet powerful details that truly enrich the scene.

The focal point of the image, the musician, is portrayed in a particularly evocative manner. His physical disability, hinted at by the crutches adorned with the Cuban flag, adds depth to the narrative. The presence of the crutches suggests a profound backstory, potentially hinting at the toll of war or conflict, which resonates deeply with the viewer. This element introduces a layer of socio-political commentary, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals in regions affected by conflict, and the resilience displayed in the face of adversity.

Moreover, the choice of location further enhances the narrative. The vibrant streets of Havana serve as a backdrop, juxtaposing the musician's personal struggle with the lively atmosphere of the city. This contrast adds complexity to the image, inviting viewers to contemplate the intersection of individual experiences within broader societal contexts.

The suggestion to convert the image to black and white is intriguing, as it has the potential to intensify the emotional impact of the scene. By removing color distractions, a monochromatic palette can amplify the mood and atmosphere, allowing viewers to focus more deeply on the narrative conveyed by the musician and his surroundings. The absence of color can evoke a sense of timelessness and universality, emphasizing the universality of the musician's story and the broader themes it represents.

Overall, the image of the street musician in Havana, Cuba, is a compelling portrayal of resilience and human experience. Through its composition, subject matter, and suggested alteration to black and white, it effectively communicates a poignant narrative that resonates with viewers on both emotional and intellectual levels. - By ChatGPT

(I just noticed that we had an AI-Isaac, Haha)
  Posted: 04/07/2024 08:44:34
Tom Tauber   Tom Tauber
Pamela, this is really something. Contrary to the previous ChatGPT critique I got from my friend this one is addressing some aspect of the photographic quality. The paragraph about black and white vs. color is spot on but very general.   Posted: 04/08/2024 16:08:38



Mandy Vien   Mandy Vien
Tom, good capture. I like the color version which shows characteristic of Cuba for travel photography. The black and white conversion from Isaac is a really good choice for mono.   Posted: 04/10/2024 23:04:47



Dr. Isaac Vaisman   Dr. Isaac Vaisman
Forgot to mention the fact that the man is an amputee.   Posted: 04/23/2024 09:56:39