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Homeless Project Photograph

Paul Abbott

New member
This is Tony, he currently resides around the area of Old Street tube station, in east London.
He told me it was through the loss of both his mother and daughter to Cancer that caused his downfall into homelessness.
While we were talking to each other he was threatened with arrest for begging, and told to ‘move on’ by a community police officer. He told me this happens all the time. This time though, he was not arrested.
As with many homeless people this guy needs help with drink and drug abuse, he is an alcoholic and addicted to heroin. – It comes with the territory when your long-term homeless.

By the way, he is on the front cover of this weeks Big Issue magazine. Also, a 6×6 photograph of him is on its way to Boris Johnson (Mayor of London) at City Hall, courtesy of moi!



tonyhomelessportrait1of1600.jpg


Paul Abbott - Tony, A Homeless Portrait
 

Asher Kelman

OPF Owner/Editor-in-Chief
Paul,

Thanks for sharing this, although it's tragic, it's important that photographers don't just allow light into their camera but also to hold up a lantern as to where we should pay attention. Thanks.

It is, BTW, an important photograph that moves one immediately. I hope you will do more to look into what's happening to these folk.

Thanks for sharing.

Asher
 

Mike Shimwell

New member
Hi Paul

A touching portrait, made all the more valuable by your taking the time to spend with Tony.

I hope that Boris has enough compassion to listen and that your reminders help the process.

Mike
 

Charlotte Thompson

Well-known member
Very Very nice capture of "helplessness"
love candid portrait work and this is at its best!


it is true "We are the World"


Charlotte-
 

Cem_Usakligil

Well-known member
Paul,

I can only join what Asher, Mike and Charlotte before me have written. Tony here looks a lot like an ex colleague of mine who used to live in London, I was taken back initially to be honest. Keep up the great work!

Cheers,
 
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