village of lepers

Stunning, terrible portrait!

This picture is part of a series on the action of the Little Systers

of the Poor in Egypt. In this crude hospital in a village of lepers

in the desert near Cairo, the Systers provide some invaluable help -

bringing some food, medication and education.

Another abusive leper shot. enough.

These pictures are a testimony on the tragic condition of these people, the invaluable help provided by the Little Systers of the Poor, even though the Systers have but limited means.

certainly disturbing subject matter, a good documentary shot. i know how hard candids like this are to take. from a strictly photographic compositional point of view, tho, it seems as if two steps right would have given this woman's face the soft blue background of the wall instead of the conflicting vertical (tho in that case you might have lost the cup or the gesture--always a tough call).

Thanks for your comment, Chris, I appreciate. I agree about what you say. But it was difficult, at the time, to focus on composition. Actually, I would rather go two steps on the left, to be able to show more of the face of the woman.

with due respect , i have to scold brian a little bit: david has clearly indicated where help can be rendered for these people. photography has a key, historic and honorable role in making people aware of conditions, injustices, and tragedies that the smug and indifferent populace sometimes prefers to remain insulated from. in cases like this, photographers are little angel accountants with notepads-- keeping a record-- and reminding us that we're ALL responsible for the welfare of the planet.

David - I admire your courage in posting this photo, as photojournalism is typically relegated to third class status on this site (no pun intended), no matter how good the photo is from a technical standpoint. But you probably know that already. Regards,