5. Love

Yes, I’m one of those hopeless romantic types.  And I’m in one of the most romantic cities in the world — Paris.  Also, as a photographer, I’m a bit of a voyeur.  In this incredible city, there is always an opportunity to people watch.  I enjoy discovering moments between people, especially those infused with authentic emotion.  Right now, I’m watching one such moment unfold in front of me.  A young couple is about to promise their love to each other by attaching a “love lock” to one of the bridges in Paris as many other couples have done.  It’s silly, considering that they exchanged vows just a few hours earlier, but romance is in the air.  I watch as the bride shyly giggles at all of the attention she’s receiving, especially from her handsome new husband.  It’s heartwarming.  They write their messages on their lock, take photos with it and then attach it to the bridge.  The symbolism is easily understood as they toss their keys into the Seine River and then exchange a sweet embrace.  Although the locals aren’t big fans of the things these romantics do, no one here seems to care.  Everyone seems happy, and that’s what love is supposed to do — make people happy and do silly things…