Manila, 2005, in a back street, Ermita Possibly 2005 - 2014

Leo Rubinfien made this photograph in 2005 in Manila, Philippines. As a photograph, its materials are simple: light-sensitive paper, chemical developers, and a lens to focus the image. But these are just the beginning. What’s more important is the photographer’s eye, and the social context in which the picture was taken. Rubinfien finds dignity in everyday scenes. Here, the women stand together; their expressions seem guarded. In a place like Ermita, a district of Manila known for its mix of commerce and local life, appearances matter. The women's clothes, though casual, are carefully chosen. They're standing in a back street, but are very present. Rubinfien’s artistry lies in capturing this complexity, in showing us the individuals within a crowd. Ultimately, this image reminds us that even the most seemingly straightforward photograph is the result of countless choices, both by the photographer and the people in the picture. By considering the circumstances of its making, we gain a deeper appreciation for the image.