STREET PHOTOGRAPHY in HAVANA

TECHNICAL SECTION

All of the Havana Series pictures were made using the LEICA M camera system.
My most frequently used lenses are the excellent 28mm, 35mm and 50mm lenses.

I never go anywhere without the LEICA M6 and a couple lenses. The things that
happen in front of a trained eye are astounding, and I'm frequently blessed with
sensing when something is about to happen. I keep the lens focused at infinity so I only have
to turn the focusing ring in one direction to focus. I also frequently adjust the meter as I'm walking so I'm ready at all times.
The Leica M6 is so discreet and quiet that I pass as a tourist. I can get in and shoot a picture, and get out again in such a short
amount of time that people hardly notice me, even when I get in very close for a photograph.
This project was one I always wanted to do. This city is a cross between a Spanish colonial city
and a time-warped Las Vegas. There are parts of Havana that look like a mirror of the Las Vegas
of the fifties with no maintenance done in forty years. The people were extremely nice
and anxious to show me their city.

This entire series is made with black and white film. I used Agfapan 400 for this work.
On occasion when I need speed or grain, I use Kodak TMZ .
I would like to thank AGFA GmbH for the generous support I've received from them over the last eleven years.

I process my films in my own lab using 3 & 1/2 gallon deep tanks. I use Agfa Rodinal 1:25 or Kodak T-Max RS depending on the film.

My prints are made using Forté VC papers developed in a combination of Kodak Selectol Soft and Dektol developers.
After development the prints are toned in a preparation including copper and selenium toners.