November 3, 2011 by Sarah
There is something you can’t help but notice as you travel around the city: oh, of course, the grandeur, the architecture, the sky, but I’m not talking about any of that. I am talking about the way the Russians pose for their pictures. I know I’ve mentioned it before but seriously, it is an art form around here to master what I call Russian Posing.
This fox at a local playground has it down. Notice the intense stare, the focused attention, with only the vague idea of a smile, but no suggestion of one in the mouth.
Upon seeing countless russians taking their photo in their native way, I decided to have a go at it. Now, I want you to feel very proud of me for showing you the following. Because what you are about to see is me looking silly and ridiculous, and definitely NOT russian.
This was mine and Sadie’s first attempt at Russian Posing. Um, FAIL.
Here are the kids doing a pose. But not quite a Russian Pose. But getting closer. Sadie was posing as a squirrel eating a nut I think. Thomas was trying to look ponder-ific. Helen was wondering why she had been sitting in a tree for so long.
OK. This is me posing American-style, then Russian-syle. Yes! I finally nailed it! Do you have any idea how difficult it is to not smile when someone points a camera at you? I couldn’t stop giggling at myself for trying so hard.
Here Sadie has also got the Russian pose, child’s version down. Cute, but no cheese.
And the baby? Well, she’s a natural. Of course, she probably won’t understand why americans say “cheese” when they want to take a picture.
Finally, here’s Thomas doing what I think is a perfect mix of Russian Posing and American Ease. Sorry about the quality of the picture. I probably took it.
