After few postings about important issues such as elections and photographers rights today it is back to basic street photography. I have captured this image few days ago just opposite Sydney Town Hall just in front the Woolworths shop. There was a man standing barefoot at the very busy intersection. He was looking constantly back as if he was waiting for someone. His unkempt appearance may indicate he was one of many Sydney homeless.
Some time ago I have captured a photograph of homeless man sleeping in a window of a building in Sydney and I have titled it “Inner city apartment“. Few days ago, as I was rushing to catch my train home, I have noticed the same homeless man sleeping in an alcove of a garage door, which looked a lot more sheltered, was lit and looked even more like a livable space for homeless.
I have noticed this beggar now a few times around Sydney. He seems to be ashamed to show his face and thus he lays down on a pavement covered by a white cotton sheet. I photographed him here near Coles opposite Sydney Town Hall.
If the idea of covering himself in the sheet supposed to raise pity it doesn’t work, as people tend to avoid him and only few people dropped a coin or two. I still believe donating money to organisations which help homeless is a better option.
There is not a lot to be said for this scene of a homeless woman with her bags and a can of Jim Beam.
In a recent conversation with a social worker I was told that many beggars will not accept food or any other form of help but money because they are either addicted to drugs or alcohol.
Perhaps it is not the case here and she is enjoying her can of JB as many of us enjoy a beer for lunch.
Mission Australia has recently conducted an awareness campaign called “Hush for homeless” with a motto “Say nothing and do something for homeless Australians”.
This is a very noble undertaking and Mission Australia has a long track record of helping these in need. However, on this occasion I felt the approach was oxymoronic. In Martin Place a large contingent of people wearing the campaign T-shirts were giving a loud performance, singing and feeling very good about themselves while a homeless man sat 5 meters from the stage totally ignored by the do-gooders. Hush!
Correction: As you can see from the comments below I have received an email from Patrick F. of Mission Australia reassuring me that the man was offered help by Mission Australia staff. Thanks Patrick. Good to know that my observation was just temporary.
