Since we arrived in France almost exactly thirteen years ago there have been many magical moments here on our beautiful hillside. One of the most life changing for me in many ways was the suggestion four years ago that we should play host to the local theatre company for their summer outdoor ‘spectacle’ – a swashbuckling, romantic costume drama by the name of ‘Capitaine Fracasse’. The production was large and ambitious, all the arrangements taken in hand by the theatre members themselves. After weeks of work and preparation, the costumes were sewn, a soundtrack produced, real horses and carriages had been put through their paces in the courtyard, rehearsals played out in the evenings and at the weekends. The performances in July were a huge success, despite the troublingly unpredictable weather, playing to packed audiences each night and ultimately writing their way into the annals of local history. For my part this was the year I discovered photography. With a wonderful touch of serendipity I had just purchased a little camera intending to use it to take snaps for my shop publicity, but at one of the early rehearsals I thought I would try my hand at some impromptu unposed portrait photos. I loved it and have never put the camera down since. Sadly, without the presence of my dear actor friends I have not had many opportunities to take portraits since, unless it’s of the animals, as my nieces and nephews live in England and Mr H is horribly camera-shy and refuses to co-operate. This afternoon however, I asked him for the umpteenth time to sit for me and he surprisingly agreed – but only if he could wear a hat. So here we are, a series of black and white portraits of a most reluctant model – wearing a hat ……….
View from a French Hillside 
These are really great, candid shots! I love Mr. H’s expression– and that hat is PERFECT! It really adds so much personality and character to what is already a fantastic set- WELL DONE!! ❤ …and such a handsome face!
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Thankyou west! So glad you like them, I do think the hat works well, It really is very him ! 🙂
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I can tell~ it really seems to suit him 😀
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He’s from Rhodesia, doesn’t exist any more (now Zimbabwe) so it’s kind of a bush hat!
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🙂 love it!
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🙂
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Splendid…..Particularly the leftermost bottom, or bottommost left, whichever you prefer……I’m big into bonnets myself…’Get a Hat, Get Ahead’…But scarily, that looks like a bullet hole in Mr Aitches titfer……Has someone been taking pot-shots at him?
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Could be sh, could be
🙂 I think it’s most likely an airhole – bush hat type thing you know – he’s from Africa originally, and the hat! 🙂
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For a second there I thought you were being very rude….But now I see it’s airhole.
Whew!
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Great portraits! Looks amazing in B&W!
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Many thanks indeed Rondje! (Wasn’t sure about posting portrait work but decided to experiment!)
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Brilliant Jane, not sure which I’m more impressed with the actual results or getting Mr H to sit – I can guess which was the trickier!!!!
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Hiya Suzie! Glad you like it ! (it was only the dressing up bit with the hat that swung it in the end!! )
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You’re so talented!
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You are extremely kind chef mimi, thank you !!
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PS chef mimi I just realised how I know your name you are Stéphane’s visitor chef Mimi! Delighted to make your acquaintance I shall go and visit you right now! ………..
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