These photographs are of people I met on the streets of New York City. The sidewalks were like a river where I cast my line, fishing faces out of the crowd. I used a portable cloth backdrop to isolate my subjects from the hustle and bustle of the city.
It was a challenge to reach out to passersby, especially in New York, where the approach of a stranger is often perceived as a threat. But once I explained what I was doing, people were generally flattered to be chosen, and welcomed the attention. Some were amused, others shy or even a little scared, but few said no. I was touched by their trust, and the way they surrendered to being photographed. Without fail, in that brief moment in front of the camera, the surface melted, and something deeper was revealed.
— Steve Ladner
