QUÉBEC BEETLE

I like this photo a lot. To my eye it tells a very simple and powerful story. The car has a lot of character, and has probably covered many miles. Its 1961 plate tells us that it has been around for a while, the bar above the bumper lends it a certain ruggedness, and the added "eyelids" above the headlamps make it seem more human. The empty roof rack says "load me up and take me on a trip!" If the car is mechanically as sound as its bodywork, it is easily capable of more adventures. The question is whether the man, who is perhaps only casually looking at the car (is he more interested in the car or the cup of coffee?), is similarly ready for new experiences.

I like the selective focus on the the car's "eyes", with the man slightly blurred in the background. And the darkish clouds that add to the sense of adventure. I'm less keen on the vignette, which I presume is a natural effect from the Holga, because the headlamps both end up being in the vignetted area, and they are what bring the car to life. If the photo were mine I would perhaps experiment with dodging the headlamps very slightly to put a little more light in the car's eyes.

Anyway, great photo, Steve. You noticed (or created) a great moment and made it into a really striking image.

A very nice shot, Steve!