Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2012/09/28
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Don't be Afraid : (A TODAY VERSION? NOT A HOPE THIS WOULD HAPPEN!!!!! 2012) Ottawa -- One of my first news assignments was to photograph Prime Minister Louis St. Laurent when he officially opened an art gallery show. "Wow, how do I address the Prime Minister? Am I allowed to speak to him? What do I call him? Sir? Mr. St. Laurent? Prime Minister?" You have to appreciate, it wasn't like the media circus of to-day. The Prime Minister was opening an art gallery show and I was the only media photographer. When I explained my concerns to his Executive Assistant, (yes you could talk to them in those days) I had never been this close to a Prime Minister before and what should I do? His response? " don't worry everything will be fine." Much to my embarrassment he told the Prime Minister, (Uncle Louis as he was affectionately known) came over and asked me what I would like him to do. Just try and imagine the Prime Minister of Canada asking you, what would you like him to do? In reflection, there were good old times! I was in a state of shock as I tried to explain; If he didn't mind would he stand with the artist by the paintings and may I take two pictures? This sounds very simplistic today, but let me assure you I was a basket case. After I had made my second exposure and indicated I was finished he came over to me, thanked me and hoped I had a good picture. He gave me the best advice I have ever received from a politician, "don't be afraid, we are people like yourself!" Thank you Prime Minister, wherever you are.