Paparazzi or Not?

Is there anyone out there who’s curious about celebrities?

I’ve been taking pictures since the 1960’s. During these 50 or so years, I’ve taken a fair number of pictures of celebrities. No, you shouldn’t think that I’m a a member of the paparazzi. Instead, think of me as an opportunist with a camera.

People who’ve known me for a while also know that I usually have a camera close by. It’s not usually a paparazzi size-camera since a compact camera is much more convenient to take along. But by having a camera always on hand, I’m able to take advantage of some of the opportunities that seem to just pop up.

Here’s a few photos that have come my way – owing to luck and a handy camera.

 

Elston Howard – 1963. As a youngster I took every opportunity to root for my team at Yankee Stadium. Elston was a fine gentleman.

Sigfried Fischbacher – 2003. My son and daughter stopped to chat with Sigfried (Sigfried and Roy) outside of Caesar’s Palace.

Gordie Howe – 1964. Gordie had a school in St Clair Shores where he would impart his tremendous skills to young hockey players.

Mohammed Ali – 1999. Paul was seated next to the Greatest on a flight from Chicago to Los Angeles. He graciously stood up for this photo.

Wolfgang Puck – 2008. The famous chef was greeting customers in his Chinois on Main restaurant in Santa Monica

 
Take advantage of opportunity. Keep you eyes open and your camera close by. To see more celebrity photos please visit the Stay Focused Gallery.

 
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In just a few days, our family will be having our bi-annual reunion. Mom comes from a large, extended family and we’re planning to have about 100 “Wong” relatives from various places across the USA gather again for a few days, this time in Grand Rapids.

One tradition of our reunions is the family auction. Everyone brings an item to be auctioned and the proceeds from the auction help to finance future reunions.

As it turns out, I’m again late getting my item ready for the auction. I need some help so I make a few calls to Mom and Aunt Jean. They frantically comb through their basements looking for old photographs. After meeting for lunch they hand me a few shoeboxes filled to the brim with photos.
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