They're called by many names. Litratista. Ritratista. Lensman. Maniniyot. Kodaker. Nowadays, it's Pitikero. Even I get called that.
Since early years, whenever I do my therapeutic street photo walks along San Pedro street, Davao City Hall and the parks of Rizal, Osmena and Quezon, I would find myself chatting with the OG ("original gangsta") 'pitikeros' of Davao. These hardworking people are the GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) street photographers who have been around since the nostalgic film days of my childhood (and yes, I started with film photography too).
Bonding with some of them takes me back to my carefree youth, reminiscing mutual friends who have passed (Manong Danny Hayag, 71, recalled shooting with our much loved colleague 'tatay' Rene Lumawag in younger years); mentioning iconic places (Manong Filo, 97, used to have his films developed in the famous Agudo's Photo Shop or Davao Studio costing a peso for 3 junior size pictures.
The legendary Manong Filomeno Gamboa as the oldest, turns 98 next August. He has been shooting the streets since 1959 when Davao was still unknown and developing. What stories he can tell! I could listen to him forever. He used a Yashica and Minolta in his prime. Today, he is as active as ever, coming straight from covering a senior citizens' gathering in Toril.
Manong Rufo Ladera at 66 has been shooting in the streets since 1979. He admits business has slowed down since the advent of everyone having mobile phones.
Manong Dominador, 78, didn't want to have his photos taken at first because his children do not want him on the streets. They are now grownup and are residing abroad and most likely taking good care of him. But because photography is in his blood, it's the passion. Even if he didn't need to work as much as the others, he wants to be independent from his kids.
I wasn't able to get the names of the women, and other younger faces in the crowd. The park was teeming with potential clients so I let them continue their craft, and only joined them when they were at rest.
There are more interesting litratistas with colorful backgrounds. Roland L. Jumawan started as a newsboy and street photographer turned multi-awarded photojournalist for Mindanao Daily Mirror.
D'Boilonor Calivoso Ugay, known as "Boy Ugay", was a former teacher who pursued photography in graduation ceremonies of San Pedro College and his alma mater Holy Cross of Davao College even until now in his 70s.
When you come across these wonderful people, please keep in mind that each has a beautiful story to tell (and old Davao photos to share!), but only when you approach respectfully and have time for unhurried and sincere, warm exchanges.