Tatsi
It is an ever increasing challenge to come up with something new as a similar photograph can only tell a story already told. Snapping photos of walking pedestrians isn’t really something I am good at, nor does it resonate with my purpose of being on the streets with my camera. I want to have a reason to take the photo, and I want to be able to relate to it.
This gentleman and his 2 grandchildren come from Palanog. They are in town to sell their harvest of dried coconut meat or copra. The price per kilogram of copra is very volatile, from as little as Php 15.00 per kilo to over Php 40.00, depending on market demand. As of this morning, he doesn’t have any idea how much money he will be taking home.
He was strutting his stuff with a rice cooker on his head, and I was sneaky.
It only took a split second before his companion decided to have a shot at fame.
It’s called “tatsi”, and I don’t know of any other word for it. The object of the game is to hit the coins out of the square using another coin.
This is how it was played many years ago – with bottle caps instead of money. I had a limitless supply of bottle caps because my uncle operated a refreshment parlor, and my pockets were always full of bottle caps.
There will always be photographs to take, but never enough stories to make.
A walk with my camera 
Beautiful photos and interesting captions. I have really enjoyed looking through your photos. I can tell this will be a site I return to again and again.
thank you, Jeff.
Great photo’s and captions. I always like to return to your blog!
thank you, Peter.
such awesome stories!!
thanks!
Another great report from a master of monochrome. I really appreciate your doing what you do so thoughtfully.
thank you for the kind words, Alessandro. It feels very good to have one’s work appreciated.
When in need of a bowler, improvise. Kids and creativity, wonderful.
they never cease to amaze. I wish grown ups would loosen up once in a while and behave like kids
excellent shots and once again a brilliant story telling. thank you for sharing!
thank you
Reblogged this on Not An Original Content ATall.
I have always been too shy to approach strangers and ask to take a photo. I always see great opportunities, but I can’t get over that feeling that I am invading their privacy. Great shots.
I still feel the same way at times despite doing this for more than 2 years already, but I always remind myself that my intentions are good.
You might want to read this article by Valerie Jardin on DPS about getting started on street photography – http://digital-photography-school.com/how-to-approach-street-photography-in-12-easy-steps.
Having a reason to take a photo, and being able to relate to it…………that is what makes great photography! Each of these photos is a wonderful story.
thank you, Angeline.