The Spoonman Busker
Written & Photographed by Chris Holloman
| Camera: Canon 5D Mark IV | Lens: Canon 70-200mm f2.8
I could hear a voice resonating through the halls of the Wellington Railway Station. Rhythmic clicks kept time like a metronome, echoing alongside.
Rounding the corner, I’d see a man seated on a plastic milk crate with his back against the polished tile wall - his eyes beaming, greeting the passerbyers with an expression of joy and humility. His song was pitch perfect and timing impeccable, as he played the spoons.
I walked by slowly, knowing that I ordinarily shy away from pointing my lense at buskers - and as I continued walking, I could feel another creative opening was passing by… his voice kept filling the room. I reached the top of the escalator and stopped, taking my camera from my bag. I snapped a couple of shots to ensure my setting were spot on, as I didn’t want to spend alot of time once behind the camera.
As he sang, smiled and lit up the mood in the station, we made brief eye contact - giving me a chance to signal with my camera on whether I could take a few shots. All was good. I could gather from his reaction (he didn’t skip a beat) that he’d been photographed before. So the picture taking began. I changed position a few times, knowing I’d been offered a chance to work freely and without seeming invasive - but I internally felt hurried. In just a couple of minutes, the camera was down and I placed a token of gratitude into his woven bag. He smiled and gave me a thank you, however, it was I that was to be sharing the thanks. I was happy to have taken an uncomfortable risk and asked to take the photos.
After that brief exchange, I walked up to Victoria Uni which shares space with the entrance to the station. Photos were reviewed and edits made, suddenly realising that I didn’t know his name. ‘The Railway Busker’ wasn’t enough…so I returned. There he was singing his heart out with the same melody soaring. This time the station was bustling with Friday afternoon patrons. When he stopped to greet someone who also placed a small koha in his basket, I took that opportunity to approach.
I shared the edited photo series with him on my laptop screen and his reaction was heartwarming. We spoke for a few moments and I learned that he’s often photographed.
“I’m Harry - I live in Wellington.” That is the answer I got. I didn’t ask anymore than that.
• Camera: Canon 5D Mark IV • Lens: Canon 70-200mm f2.8
