The theme for this week’s edition of “Monochrome Madness” comes from Elke from pictures imperfect blog
We are supposed to show pictures which show the theme „Getting on in Years“.
On old age:
When is one considered old?
Is one old when one no longer contributes anything of value to society?
When one is just a financial burden on the younger generation?
When one no longer fits the general image portrayed in advertising and on social media?
Photographing older people (a group to which I now also belong) is extremely difficult.
And so I’ve realised that I have very few photographs of older people.
And when I do, they’re usually of those who have come to terms with themselves and claim their place in society.
I should add that I don’t take photographs that are disrespectful to people.
I’ve no idea when this photo was taken. What’s certain is that I didn’t take it – my father did.
If it’s from around 1961, then that’s me, gazing longingly at the food.
If it’s from around 1967, then it’s my brother.
What’s certain is that my grandmother is the one feeding her grandson here.
In Chefchaouen / Morocco, I was allowed to take a photograph of this woman.
She has undoubtedly led a life marked by hard work and hardship. Despite this – or perhaps precisely because of it – this woman is a figure of great importance within her family.
A rainy day in Kinsale, Ireland. This lady never leaves the house without putting together a stylish outfit. Good taste has nothing to do with age.
Live your dream, no matter how old you are.
For some people, it’s important to stay active as they get older; others simply enjoy the peace and quiet and the freedom of finally not having any more commitments.
Slipping into period costumes and getting a little taste of what it’s like not to be quite as old as the person in the photo being taken of you.
(2026 Venice)
Or we older folk could play a part in steampunk, where old, venerable men command a certain respect. And where the face reflects a certain warmth. (Annotopia 2026)