In a surprising coincidence, after I forwarded my shot of the Cuban domino players to my friend and master photoshop teacher, Charlie Seton, he not only helped me work this image in Lightroom but then showed me one of his own masterpieces.  While Charlie’s image was taken on the Caribbean island of Nevis, and mine was taken in Havana, we discoved they were taken less than 24 hours apart.  What draws us to such similar scenes?  While usually Charlie and I take quite differerent photographs, the similarity in these is uncanny.  Great minds (or artists) think alike.

That’s my theory, and I’m sticking to it.

While walking back from an evening of music and mojitos (my new favorite drink), I caught these men in a pick up game of dominos.  Their concentration and cigars formed an interesting scene.

“I cannot think of any need in childhood as strong as the need for a father’s protection.”
~ Sigmund Freud

Whether in the United States, or Cuba, a father’s role remains the same.

The 8km long sea drive along Havana’s sea wall is a haven for musicians, fishermen, and lovers.  It is a wonderful place for photographers as well. I visited it at dawn, and dusk (only mad men and Englishmen go out in the midday sun.

While on a recent trip to Cuba, we found a little town in the countryside called San Antonio.

It was there that I came upon this wonderful scene in a bicycle shop.  I loved the people, the light, and the chicken who was fortunately NOT crossing the road.

Found in my files..  Previously overlooked, something in this image piques my interest. 

While covering Jacob’s Bar Mitzvah rehearsal, I tried to concentrate not only on the key, required photo ops (i.e. reading from the Torah, holding the Torah, etc.)   It’s those quiet, in-between moments I love to capture: a sibling’s knowing glance, the kiss of the proud parents, and the Rabbi’s strong hand in teaching his student to “daven.”

Mazel Tov, Jacob!