We dispatched our hometown photographer, CJ Payne, to the heart of the city to capture a snapshot and engage in some casual conversation. Consider it our local twist on the acclaimed Humans of New York series that we hold in high regard. Our aim is to foster a sense of community and encourage our readers to deepen their connections with their downtown neighbors.
“I am a freelance photographer, father, and professional chiller. I’ve been unofficially messing with cameras for probably 12 to 15 years. You know, like film, particularly old point-and-shoots and Polaroids. I like really walking around by myself and feeling almost invisible. I like capturing really candid moments. It’s a beautiful thing when someone doesn’t know you’re looking, and you catch that perfect moment where they’re not posing. It’s just natural human life—living. It’s very cool.”
“I lived here for like 10 years. I’m from Fredericksburg, moved back to Fredericksburg, and now I’m back in Richmond, Virginia. My wife is in grad school, so we moved back like a week or two ago. Pretty crazy. This is like my first walk around the city.”
“They’ve invested a lot in gentrification. This bus line wasn’t here when I lived here before. It’s kind of becoming a little D.C. or something. I like it, but it doesn’t seem right. It’s losing its charm.”
“They’re pushing into the block, and it’s eventually going to connect to the hospital. There’s a police station on almost every block now. It’s hard to take in.”
Give CJ Payne a follow @tallglassofleche
