This photograph is another one from my Chicago trip that took on more so much more meaning once I got home and started going through the editing process. I am sure the faces, the contrast, and the forms all drew my intention when I made this exposure. I almost overlooked it until I zoomed in on the plaque that the woman was carrying and realized it was tack sharp and I could read what it said. The plaque is from the Cook County Assessor’s Office and was recognizing her retirement after 25 years of service, I could also read her name, Laureen V. Connelly. Being a block away from the Cook County Building I assume that this woman was coming from her old office where she had just had a retirement lunch, or reception, and they presented her with this plaque. I have no idea who the woman with here is, but I would guess it might be a daughter or even a former coworker that is a close friend.
With the information in the image, and some reasonable assumptions this image now has become pretty powerful. Laureen and the woman with her look rather solemn, like there might be a lot of reflection and thought going on. I can envision Laureen having the realization of the change in her life might be pretty intense. I assume she had a cubicle type job where she pushed a lot of paper and with it being the Assessor’s Office some of the citizens she interacted with daily might not have been in the best moods. But I can also imagine she took pride in her work and liked some of her coworkers. Change is not always easy and after 25 years to walk out of the office for the last time with just a pension and a basic plaque might be a little tough. The person with Laureen seems to be there in a supportive role. We can all imagine our own scenario of details with this image, and it doesn’t matter who is the most accurate. What is important here is the fact this person spent 25 years doing a job and is walking away with a basic plaque. Does this plaque really sum up her career? It lends the viewer to reflect on their own career and the real impact it is having on themself, on others, and society. This image allows the viewer to run with it. For me when I saw this, I reflected back on my law enforcement career and how it didn’t end on my terms because of an injury. The sudden change was not easy and luckily for me I had my family and my photography career to fill some of the void.
Between the two version I think the black and white image works best because I find the colors in the frame don’t add anything to the image and the monochrome version seems to be more appropriate for my interpretation of the mood. I just wanted to share both versions here so every viewer could have their own experience with the image.
This image is also a great example of how sharp the Nikkor 24-120mm Z lens is and how well it works with a Nikon Z6ii camera body; the autofocus capability is outstanding. UPDATE!!! Nikon Z6iii is out, and Preorders are being accepted at Samys Camera, with expected June 25th availability.
CHI DSC_6274_ 03-26-2024 - Black and White version