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You know what? I carry my camera EVERYWHERE and you know what else? If you just take out a piece of decent photo gear, and just start taking pictures, and act like you know what the F you are doing, you can go ANYWHERE. I was at Duboce Park on my way to the Harvey Milk Photo Center when I saw this kid's birthday party. The parents had hired a "bubble guy" who brings out a big soap bubble act. The kids participate. It's WAY cool. Now generally photographing children is fraught with dangers which are all too obvious to discuss. Recently I have learned that it's best just to jump in, knowing it's best to ask forgiveness than permission. I anticipated being approached by suspicious parents. Instead all I got was a lot of "Can I get a copy of that...?". As usual I handed out a bunch of business cards, which establishes my intentions. I also tell them, "Email me and I'll send you images". Oddly enough, almost no one ever does. Update July 30th: The boy's mom emailed me. Sweet! I got her the images. I'm happy to do it. Her son will have the photo the rest of his life.

To the point: Be bold, don't ask permission, and always be prepared to hand out a business card.

Photojournalism, whether you approach it as a profession or just a passion, requires no apology.

Document our world. Hold a mirror to man.