Social isolation

I saw this image of original artwork from a gallery: some found it funny but it actually made me sad.

On a recent Sunday, a beautiful sunny day, I walked around my city's urban park; it was crowded with families and (real, not virtual) friends, some were in groups.

But there was a disturbing trend: I rarely saw direct interaction...

adapted Cosmicar 50mm f1.4   1/160sec

Are we too driven by social media to actually be social?

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Alfresco dining

With a warm climate year-round and low precipitation Brisbane offers the perfect weather for eating out, under the stars.

I particularly enjoy the markets and urban parks South of the river where dining is a much more organic and low -profile experience than in the city itself. 

G.Lumix 14mm f4.5  1/6sec

I see a more down-to-earth crowd where the focus is to enjoy oneself, not parade or show off :-)

The people that frequent these places are very approachable and conversations flow easily.
The food can be viewed and the offerings are extremely varied, from all continents.

G.Lumix 14mm f2.5  1/25sec
And ultimately I see a much closer connection between people where they can mingle freely and not just stuck behind a crammed noisy restaurant table unable to talk due to the noise.


Pentax-110 50mm f2.8  1/6sec
After living in USA for almost a decade (MA, VA, UT and CA) I now really appreciate how these open spaces where one can socialize and enjoy a simpler life contribute to a more genuine quality life.

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West End markets

On a Friday evening I can't think of a more relaxed social hang-out than the West End markets.
So much less pretentious and more relaxed alternative to the highly polished venues just a street away from here.


G-Lumix 14mm f2.5  1/2sec

Outdoors, with a mix of food stalls and a few trinkets the crowd is more down to earth. One can meet friends, grab a bight to eat, a (socially responsible) drink and relax.
The place is not loud enough to prevent holding a conversation, occasionally heated :-)


G-Lumix 14mm f2.5 1/5sec

Several street performers often play decent tunes with the Spanish guitarist being my favourite.


G.Lumix 14mm f2.5 1/50sec


PS: Sad news. At the end of April these markets will cease, to make room for redevelopment: residential towers...
PPS: Good news: they will relocate up the road :-)

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Last rays

The unusual sight of several young men having a good time without the help of alcohol; social interaction without the media, no screen.
I did not witness any loud banter or the typical pushing and shoving.
It was like a scene from a by-gone era.


M.Zuiko 40-150mm f7.1  1/4000 sec



M.Zuiko 40-150mm f7.1  1/3200 sec