Winnipeg Street: Duane and Ozzy
On my way home from work I decided to take an alternate route and ran into Duane and his buddy Ozzy, who he’s known for many years. Instead of walking by, I decided to stop and chat with them for a bit and got some funny stories as well as a few candid photos as they talked. Duane mentioned he had just gotten out of jail for a misdemeanour (drinking in public) and Ozzy said he was taking a break from his nagging wife (as he put it!). I’ve met and photographed Duane in the past and he was a lot more upbeat this time around. Sometimes having a friend by your side can help beat the blues.
Mike Pratt Photography Blog 
Very nice! I really like the second image— and a friend is definately a remedy for ‘the blues’ especially if they bring chocolate ice cream as well :)
Thank you West!! Chocolate ice cream is certainly mood changer!
Attentive, expressive, pensive. That’s what my mind sees, in the order the photos are presented. Like how you captured three different ‘moods,’ Mike.
Thank you Eric!! I think it’s great that you see the different moods / sides of these guys. I hoped to capture some expressive moments :) Cheers.
I love these pictures! Especially the second and the third…I like the focus on only one of them! That makes photos even more interesting and mysterious…
Thank you Mojca! On the second image, I was happy that Duane moved his hand into the focus area of Ozzy – making his hand pop out a bit more. Appreciate your comment :)
Great images and story Mike, enjoy your weekend :)
Thank you Joe! Weekend was great. Drove around a lot in the new car and visited with family :) Likewise, hope you had a great one too!
Excellent photographs of these fellows… part of Duane’s upbeat feeling is having been well fed while locked up. He must have put on at least 20 pounds. When I asked him about life on the inside, his reply was “I have no complaints”. I quite enjoy your takes/shots & comments on these fellows. I have pictures of most of them on the wall at the centre (but just “snaps” for identification purposes). They do enjoy showing them to others! Drop in some time for a look…and sometimes there might be 5 or 10 guys hanging around…could make some interesting shots. (200 – 75 Albert Mon – Fri 10 a.m. – 4 p.m usually).
Thanks Doug! I always like the additional information you offer to some of the photos! I appreciate that.
I’ll definitely stop by again! Cheers.
You’ve given me such an itch to see Winnipeg, Mike … and more of Canada. To our embarrassment, Americans don’t learn much more than the basic geography, form of Government (in fact I saw a group of American school girls in front of the Canadian Consulate, with a petition asking that Prince Harry be appointed Governor General.) Of course, we know Quebec has a special status, but we don’t understand what that means exactly. Anyway, you’ve flicked my Canada switch.
Cheers Mark! Thanks for your interest in my photography as well as wanting to know more about this city and Canada! Of course, I see the many problems facing Canada / Canadians, however I do realize how fortunate most Canadians are to be living here. If you should ever come for a visit, let me know.
I shall, but I doubt I will … get to Winnipeg, I mean. Yes, the think the world acknowledges that you’re lucky devils to be living in that enormous, beautiful country. Truly.
I love your pictures and commentary Mike. For over 20 years I worked in the non-profit sector at an organization that worked with homeless folks. I already know that homeless people have a story and that they have more in common with those of us who have homes than things that divide us. Your blog, your compassion and your camera helps to tell this story.
Diana xo
Thank you Diana! So many homeless folks lose their voice when on the streets. I’m not sure what I’m doing will have long term benefits, however I do feel by stopping and talking to someone, can really lift up their spirits while giving them an opportunity to talk candidly, voice some opinions; simply be heard.
I love the fact that all your photos have such interesting stories behind them – really glad to have found your blog.
Thank you Sagasnaps! I appreciate you stopping by and hope you’ll continue to enjoy the blog :)
You have a keen eyes and finding all the time great personages for your pictures.
Thank you Alexander! I’ve attempted to stop this project several times but continue to push forward with it! I suppose it has really become something I must do :)
Your wonderful shots get to the beating heart of life on the streets and I love how you have caught the companionable flow between Duane and Ozzy.
[…] Winnipeg Street: Duane and Ozzy by Mike Pratt Photography […]
Mike … I love the transformation from deadly serious to a huge grin. You’ve taken more than just a photo. You’ve captured their personalities as well. It’s a glimpse of life that many do not get to see of those on the street. But, let’s hope that Ozzy’s wife doesn’t read your blog. ;-) dianasschwenk sent me.
They look like they’d be very interesting characters to talk to. I haven’t done very music with portraits or people.
I may try adding that to my thoughts as I wander around for a great pix.
These are terrific captures. 😊