The unknown soldier

France. Approaching each other and seeing the camera, he voluntary

did pose. My remark in French.. he replied in English. My responding

in English did touch him, he started crying. World-war.. soldier..

Being emotioned,just a few words came out. Did he, being young and

after the fights, never return to his country?! I strongly got that

impression. Poor old fellow.. Yes, he really was an unknown soldier

now..

Nice and dramatic story. His face like a book. Life marks our gesture, our face, our own story. Beautiful. Regards.

Was he shocked by you? -:)

Probably he supposed me to be a news-paper-photographer. I'm tall and wasn't dressed like a tourist. Often my attitude has a kind of natural preponderance in a open and respecting way. People and especially children do "recognize" that. Together with interest and a touch of humor it's very easy in making contact. I really do love everybody, while not liking everybody. Haha.. often the same watching myself. Yes, it's totally out of any order, confessing this, but occasionally rontgen-photos do have their charm too.

 

No, he wasn't shocked, but taking his cap off and presenting like this, typical was his militairy way. I was "shocked!" I wouldn't take advantage of his total surrendering here and just shot instantly, as quick as possible. I should have (did kiss him on the fore-head) embrased him or blessed, or both or have taken him with us to the Netherlands. What are we doing..?!! Later I did feel, he fortunately was living in "his own world", probably the best way to protect him during his last years in this society.. Yes, I should have embrased him, for he is still staring and expecting some..

Maybe that is what photography is all about. Seeing inside the image and capturing feelings like joy or sadness, loneliness ... like u did in this picture. This picture is a reminder of how tired, alone and overwhelmed by life people can be. You should have hugged him indeed. Great work again. All the best

I've been looking at this photo again and again.. It makes me feel speechless. His eyes tell all about his feelings.. wonderfully done!. Best regards, Feliz

Olaf, I love him! Thank you for sharing!

ou are ona of the very few photographer here that shoot the auentics streets, my favourites. only a difference with the classic, you use colours....

We are seeing ourselves in all kind of different ways, the heart.. of street..

Very fine work

Every picture tells a story and this is an excellent example. Very well done.

I think, besides his worn out face, his hand and the hat in it contribute to the drama of this photograph significantly. Very effective in making me think about forgotten soldiers in general.

When the going get tough.......and so on. Nice catch

Very impressive ! Best regards, Mircea

Hello. Have not been on much lately, but when I am here I am always drawn to your pictures. This photo is an example of why. My husband is a 100% disabled vet, He has submitted 130 interviews for veterans of wwII to the library of congress. To tell their stories. It seems you have done the same in one photo. Beautiful shot.

Wat een mooie foto Olaf!

What I like about this portrait is its genuine humanity and warmth.  A really touching presence!  Compliments for taking it and sharing it.