old man

....

Though the image has evocative possibilities and shows a nice sense of highlighting and black and white work, I would prefer if both hands were behind the glass. Having the three levels of more blur, less blur, and sharpness has its visual interest and merit, but the sense of setup feels a bit forced. If there could have been a more organic way to accomplish the various degrees of focus, I'd find the picture more compelling. But, as shown, the mechanics, for me, get in the way of the story, knowing he's reaching around the glass to create an effect. There's no particular narrative reason for him to do so.

I kind of like it as is Fred. Picturing it with the man fully behind the window, I'm not sure it has the same impact. I particularly like the detail in the right hand. Here's the way I interpret it, which might be far from the photographer's intent. I see the man as a religious figure, and the beads an implement of religion, much like the Catholic rosary. The man would like to practice his religion in complete freedom (the hand holding the beads in clear focus), but because of the need to hide such things in various countries or risk death, he feels safer practicing in a more covert manner (thus, pulling the beads behind the glass).

But whether I'm on the mark or way off, I like that the photo presents the viewer with a story that is open to interpretation.

I like it just the way it is. I don't really see why it is odd that he is reaching around the glass - the fact that he has done it is enough. I somehow doubt he was coaxed to do it. I think it is a wonderfully compelling image and beautifully executed.

Fred may be correct with reference to the image possibly having been set up in a forced way. Yet I too find it quite compelling. The blur of the man behind the glass and the sharp focus on the hand holding the religious implement symbolizes the lesser significance of his identity and the greater significance of his faith. Whether I believe this story is unimportant; I think Salih believes it and tells it well.

I like that interpretation Michael!

Compositionally the hand in front of the glass bothers me. It could come from anywhere. I'd have liked it better sharply focused but behind the glass. Otherwise I like it a lot.

Rick H.

Perhaps its a symbol representing the limits we have with our Gods. Out of reach, protected, unapproachable.

The left hand pushes away something which resembles Turin cloth and the man presents Muslim prayer device in the front. The ring is attribute of the man who has capability to issue documents - his position is above average. This is my guess what could be hidden behind this peculiar composition.

The beads remind me of a Mala- beads used in Yogic practice. So perhaps the intent of the subject is closer to 'with spiritual practice things are more clear, while without it, things are foggy and muddled'. The razor sharpness of the hand is stunning, and makes up for any perceived shortcomings. In my view.

The beads remind me of a Mala- beads used in Yogic practice. So perhaps the intent of the subject is closer to 'with spiritual practice things are more clear, while without it, things are foggy and muddled'. The razor sharpness of the hand is stunning, and makes up for any perceived shortcomings. In my view.