Pool Shark, 2018

In my archive, I have a fair number of photos made in pubs. Perhaps because I grew up in England (where access to drinking establishments is not so rigidly controlled) and some of my earliest memories are of my father entertaining in pubs and “working men’s clubs,” I retain a nostalgic attraction to the dimly-lit atmosphere of the public house.

Especially in the days of film, exposure has always presented a challenge in low light interiors. Today’s digital cameras have simplified the challenge considerably, with my newest camera, the Nikon Z-6, producing perfectly useable images down to ISO 10,000!

The greater challenge in making photos in places where people are drinking, and don’t necessarily care to be the subject of your “documentary project,” is getting away with a picture and in one piece. I don’t know how to tell you what my “approach” is in such locations and circumstances, other than to look unthreatening and to be straightforward about what I’m up to. I never try to be covert.

The chap in this image certainly doesn’t appear to be that thrilled with my project. He did not, however, follow up his scowl. For that I am grateful … and for what I think is a strong image.