Wish I were superman

I've always told you before when I had odd encounters while out taking my photos.
This one crossed the line from odd to completely unsettling.

This area might look secluded from where I'm standing, but really it's not. I'm right by a moderately busy road and a side walk where people often pass by jogging or walking their dogs. I'm barely a five minute walk from my home.

I had my back to the road and was checking the photos on my camera when a pickup truck with two young guys drove by. The one on the passengers side was hanging out the window and he shouted at me, "What the F--- are you taking pictures of, you stupid little B----?!"

I was quite shaken by this, and honestly, scared. I was imagining them doubling back... wondering if I could use the tripod as a weapon, wondering where all the joggers and dog walkers were when I needed them... thinking about the beginnings of all those crime scene investigation shows...

I followed my standard protocol for such situations: snapped one more frame so that there would be a record of the last minute I was alive, collapsed my tripod, and headed straight home.

Maybe I'm over reacting, but I really felt frightened and unsafe, in my own town, minutes from my home, in broad daylight... and it's just not a good feeling.

Some days I wish I had a photographer.

the primaries-1.jpg the primaries-4.jpg the primaries-3.jpg the primaries.jpg the primaries-2.jpg
Red Pants Urban Outfitters - Blue Button Down Thrifted - Yellow Clutch Zara - Sandals Nine West - Sunnies Kohls - Ring American Eagle - Bracelets Taken for Granite, Kohls, Coco's, Thrifted - Nail Color Avon Loving Lavender

60 comments

  1. wow some people are so rude! that guy was probably high or something haha anyway you look really cute! i absolutely adore your outfit!

    http://sarassweetstyle.blogspot.com

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  2. Oh geez, that's really scary. I'm glad they did nothing more than yell at you, although that's disturbing enough. You should carry some mace - that's what I do, and even though I've never had to use it, if I'm walking in a more secluded area by myself, I'm always ready to grab it.

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  3. ugh, i feel the same. i've been shooting outside a lot more often and it comes with its frustrations especially at night when i'm shooting my "going out" outfits. guys can be such creeps. you should've taken a picture of them and yelled "you, asshole! this will help the police identify you a lot easier after i get off the phone with them!" on a side note, your outfit makes me happy :)

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  4. Ugh, those guys were awful. So sorry you had to experience that. Your outfit is super cute.

    www.TheFancyTeacup.com

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  5. that is garbage ... people can be pretty crappy sometimes ... but on the up side this outfit rocks... great colors!!
    jess
    www.jesscauseblog.blogspot.com

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  6. No bueno. Taking photos of oneself is awkward enough as it is, let alone having to deal with assholes like this. I hope it doesn't shake you up too much, although that's easier said than done. It's sad that two jerks have the power to do this.

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  7. OMG Some people! Not only were they rude, but I can see where they were a bit scary! Patrick made me start carrying pepper spray with me when I take my photos for reasons just like this. On the plus side, your blue, red and yellow outfit is really cute. I'm really sorry you had to deal with douchebags.

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  8. you make superman colors look fab! red and blue together are such a great color combo and that purse with it is perfection! love the background too! you take the best photos.

    http://spinning-threads.blogspot.com

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  9. Some people are so rude. Sorry they made you feel that way :(
    I would have had the same reaction if it were me.

    Loving this colour blocked look xo

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  10. Gorgeous!!!

    Love from South Africa

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  11. That is scary and I think you did the right thing. Not sure why people feel the need to be so rude sometimes...

    You do look fabulous!

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  12. That sounds terrible - I think I would have been slightly traumatized as well :( Those guys are a bunch of A Holes - because you look absolutely fabulous - the colors in this outfit are SO pretty!

    Annie
    The Other Side of Gray

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  13. Loving this outfit! but GAH!!! what idiots, I would have wanted to run at the car and punch them, but then they would run me over, haha
    http://www.closet-fashionista.com/

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  14. So sorry to hear that! It would have freaked me out too.

    DEFINITELY carry pepper spray... it will give you at least enough time to run away should the situation have escalated.

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  15. Fun combo! Love the bright combinatinon! ... and omg! some people are really screwed up, next time keep a rock handy or something, be safe!

    Cess O. <3 The Outfit Diaries

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  16. I'm so sorry you had to experience something like that. It really does shake you up and makes you feel sick.

    Remember that it completely wasn't personal at all, those idiots were going to shout at whoever was standing there.

    Sending you a big hug, don't let those idiots get you down.

    xoxo
    www.natashafatah.blogspot.com

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  17. Sorry you had to deal with those rude people! Must have been scary.
    The pictures look gorgeous though - I always love primary colours together :)

    Xx

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  18. That's horrible :( Getting caught is one thing, but for people to say things like that. I'm so sorry you had to deal with that and glad you made it home safely.

    I love your brightly colored outfit though!

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  19. OMG that is really scary. :( Glad you're ok!

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  20. Yikes. What asses. I would probably have started screaming at that...maybe not the best choice in terms of personal safety.

    Courtney ~ http://sartorialsidelines.com

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  21. Oh gosh, that is such a scary story! So glad nothing worse happened to you Lydia!

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  22. That's so F'ING RUDE I can't stand it.
    I'm sorry :( Try some front porch shots for a little bit until you become more settled.
    They were prob just a group of stupid drunk kids. Yes. drunk in the middle of the day.

    xx
    The Fashionable ESQ
    http://www.thefashionableesq.blogspot.com/

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  23. ok, that is really scary and those guys are just totally rude. But hey, Lydia, i am sure you could wield that tripod as a weapon! Plus you look adorable in this outfit. I love the bright colors.

    ♥ laura
    the blog of worldly delights
    the shop of worldly delights

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  24. That's so scary. I'm glad it turned out safe but it sucks to be nervous going out in your own neighbourhood.

    Have you heard of the hollaback movement? Sometimes when women don't feel safe yelling at street harassers right at the moment they post a description of the location and the car at this website http://www.ihollaback.org/

    Love the colours in your outfit!

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  25. Having a photographer is like being spoiled, sometimes. Not only does Mr. A take my pictures, but he also protects me from creepers. We go to a lot of run-down neighborhoods for our shoots just because I like the scenery (go figure), so we have had our close calls, as well, but I have never been alone. I'm so sorry that happened to you.

    At least you look dang adorable!

    http://www.glamkittenslitterbox.com/
    Twitter: @GlamKitten88

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  26. Lyddie that's scary and horrible. Do you carry mace with you? Just something to have just in case. The wacko's that are out here seem to be multiplying. You looked great, but so sorry you had to experience that. ((HUG))
    http://www.averysweetblog.com/

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  27. It sounds like a really scary situation. Glad you are okay.

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  28. I totally understand this feeling. I've had similar experiences in the day light, in my own 'nice' neighborhood. It's kind of weird how un-safe a couple cuss words hurled from a stranger's mouth can make you feel.
    I'm sure it was nothing really 'personal' some people are just idiots and try to make other people feel small. I try to prepare retorts for people like that but I never have one ready when I need it. Glad that you are safe. You still look really nice.

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  29. Wow, what assholes! Unfortunately, douchebags like that are everywhere.

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  30. Wao, that guy is such an idiot!!! I'm soooo sorry this happened to you! I would have definitely feel scared as well. I congratulate you for being so brave in taking your pictures in public all the time using a tripod. I don't get much further than my back porch! You really are brave.

    www.thejoyoffashion.blogspot.com

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  31. I like this outfit a loooot :)
    Great pictures!

    xoxo

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  32. Uhg, and I thought my 6yr old neighborhood stalker was bad. People really suck sometimes. I just don't know what would possess a person to hurl insults at someone they don't even know. Boo to them.
    And on a brighter note, those are some great pants!

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  33. Oh dear, I'm so glad nothing happened to you, those jerks!! That was just so rude, I often wonder why there's idiots like those around. I hope you are feeling better and by the way you look super pretty I love your outfit and the color block is perfect.

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  34. I have always admired that you take your pictures where your heart desires, sans a photographer - I am sorry this happened, what an ass of a guy - I would have been petrified.
    Have you tried to have your sister take your picture?

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  35. Oh no...I have had people heckle, but nothing that profaine. Good idea that you took a final photo as a record you were alive...
    On a positive note...I love those red pants.

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  36. That sucks, if you were close, I'd be your photographer :) I'm afraid to venture out w/my camera past my building limits for fear that someone will run up and steal my camera, now I'm afraid of this, too.

    Why is it that people yell questions and then drive away w/out waiting for the answer?

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  37. This is such an awesome color combo! And that is totally scary...

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  38. Oh, Lyddia, I am so sorry. I wish I were with you - I would have cursed their stupid, ignorant asses out. People are so hateful sometimes.

    Also, those Madden Girl Virtuaal boots - you definitely need to buy!

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  39. i would totally be scared too! it's crazy how a lot of people can be so rude. what is it to them if you're taking pictures, right? to each their own. :/ *sigh* i hope someone can go with you next time, so you won't be alone. :)

    p.s. i love the outfit, of course!

    <3, Mimi
    http://whatmimiwrites.blogspot.com/
    Fashion To Figure Giveaway: Win any item $30 or less
    Poshlocket Giveaway: Win a Shelly Fabric Choker

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  40. That guy sure was rude, but your photos turned out well and I like the primary colors.

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  41. Gah--I would have been SURE to snap these guys photos and take down the license plate and to report them for harassment.

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  42. I feel like street harassment has been getting worse lately... Tia just posted on this (http://readinginskirts.wordpress.com/2012/03/20/street-harassmentagain/). It's really bad in New York, but I'm actually less afraid of walking alone in New York than other places. But I also have a very serious temper, as well as the ability to do someone serious physical harm. Don't worry about if you're overreacting or not. Street harassment is a serious problem. You could definitely start carrying mace, but check your local laws (illegal in some places).

    Hanging out the side of your best friend's ride-- just thought of TLC's Scrubs, haha. But in all seriousness, the next time I see you in person I can teach you all sorts of fun things, like how to disarm someone with a knife, cause someone a lot pain, break a hold on someone who grabs you...

    Oh, and I really like this shirt, too.

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  43. That is a very unpleasant experience. For the record, you were taking pictures of some badass colorblocking action. This outfit is lovely!

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  44. Wow what a complete DICK! I'm sorry but some people are just ridiculous. Glad you survived it.

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  45. Lydia- you're not overreacting at all. I would have done exactly the same thing. People are rude and crass. Plus, nowadays it's not safe anywhere. Glad you just packed up and left.
    However, you still managed to take beautiful pics of your outfit. I love the blue blouse by the way- can't seem to find that color lately. We still have to do a thrift tour!

    DelaChic

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  46. Oh my goodness, that is definitely not overreacting! That's really creepy, especially when you're alone (and for being such he beautiful lady that you are!). I'm glad you left, and I'm sorry that people are so creepy. The fact that it's only 5 minutes from your house doesn't help either. Dang.

    Well, creepy lame guys aside, I think these photos are stunning. I like how you had wonder woman cuffs on yesterday and totally resemble superman today. Now if only you had the super powers to fight crime and rude, freaky people. :)

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  47. I was just saying how I need a colorblock bag...Loooooove yours!

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  48. **hugs**

    Lyddie, so sorry you had to go through that. I definitely don't think you overreacted and I'm so glad they didn't double back and you are ok! Can you take a friend with you when you take your pictures? Or some mace?

    Aside from the rude a-holes your pictures look beautiful!

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  49. This is an amazing outfit! Love the primary colors together. Great job color blocking.

    http://shannonhearts.blogspot.com

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  50. Ahh that is so weird! I feel awful that you had to experience that. But goes it does make me think about a location I went to shoot pictures at the other day and it was pretty secluded and some dudes were just hanging out there smoking weed. In hindsight, I should have just left. We shouldn't be putting ourselves in danger for the sake of a photo!

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  51. Some people are just ignorant and rude. It does shake us when someone is rude like that for no reason, it feels like an assault... and if fact it is, it's a verbal assault. Yes, a photographer would not only be easier but it would be another person with you at location in case of ignorant encounters. (I would have flipped them the bird and hit them over the head w/ the tripod... hee hee)! xo

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  52. WTF?! What assholes. (Boy, I'm full of my own choice words this morning!) I can't imagine how unsettling that would have felt. It's awkward enough to take photos alone, but now to worry about harassment? It's probably just a one-time occurrence, but I agree with Kim: bring pepper spray with you.

    Glad you're okay and nothing worse happened. Big hugs!

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  53. I love that shirt on you!

    Ok now onto the incident- people can be foolish and harsh. What is the point of rude remarks, cat calling, and other actions? You are just taking a few pictures and I am glad you are safe!

    xoxo,
    Chic 'n Cheap Living

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  54. What a horrible situation! I'm sorry, girl. I don't venture too far for photos by myself! That's why all mine have been in my backyard. I wish I had the guts to do what you do even five minutes away from your home! Also, you look adorable. Love the chambray + red pant combination! I did the same styling recently here.

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  55. I'm coming to this late but I just wanted to say a few things:

    1) I'm so sorry. I have absolutely felt just as unsafe in similar situations.

    2) I think everyone needs to do what's safe for them - some people carry certain things, some people would take pictures, some people would scream back; I know it's really heartwrenching to hear of this happening to other women and we want to share with them how we'd protect ourselves to feel safe, but I think only the individual can best decide how to feel safe - there is a lot on that here: http://thebestdefenseprogram.wordpress.com/2011/12/16/nine/

    3) People do this because they find it culturally acceptable (whether at large or with their friends) and/or because there are almost no consequences. It's a horrible use of power (numbers of people, using the implied threat of rape, etc). I encourage people to talk to the men in their lives and let them know what it's like as a woman to experience crap like this. To teach them simple things like when it's just you and a woman on the street at night and you're walking behind her, don't walk so close and stay where she can see you - it's likely she feels unsafe. And to call out their friends when they verbally harrass people like it's nothing.

    Anyway, I'm very glad you're okay and that you talked about it instead of just not mentioning it at all!

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  56. well that just sucks.
    It's not only an insult but definitely a threat, as well. People are so strange. I'm glad you closed up shop and went home. I would have spent that last frame taking a photo of their license plates!

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  57. I am sooooo glad that you got out of there! You had every right to feel upset, I am so sorry that happened. Good thing you were wearing your superman colors so that you knew exactly what to do, get to somewhere safe.


    www.living-thesuite-life.blogspot.com

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  58. Boys are DUMB!! They act like cavemen sometimes, and I would totally have felt as unnerved as you did had I been there. Ugh. Definitely carry some mace with you, but I'm glad you got out of there ASAP. It was probably nothing but a dumb idiot driving by, but always better to be safe first off!

    I love that blouse! So pretty, I need to go back to thrifting again!

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  59. I'm so sorry that happened to you dear!! =( If I lived by you I would TOTALLY be your photog!

    <3 Sarah
    theantiquepearl.blogspot.com

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