Profiles: Michael Witty, Walking Tours

The Shout Heard Around the Lobby

I had to meet Mr. Witty at a hotel near Plaça Catalunya. The place was full of elderly German tourists, and the vague description I’d been given meant that half the lobby could plausibly have been him.

Eventually, someone appeared who fit the bill—wandering around looking slightly lost. I decided to call out his name but had a mental block, and what escaped was a loud, unfortunate “Witty!” delivered in the tone of a stern schoolmaster. Judging by the look on his face, I think he briefly relived a childhood trauma. Still, he turned out to be a very nice man, so no harm done.

Beer, Light, and Improvisation

I suggested we find an outdoor spot to shoot. Asking permission inside would have triggered the usual chaos—staff hunting for managers who’d then say no by default. Best to disappear somewhere discreet.

We found a terrace and I quickly set up two bare-headed flashes. I only had one stand, so the second light ended up perched on the table. Naturally, someone spotted us and came over. I immediately ordered a beer and explained it was just a casual photo for fun, confusing him just enough to buy us some time. When he returned, we ordered another beer. Michael didn’t mind—he was drinking most of it.

The light was simple and fast, and the whole thing had an unplanned charm. Sometimes the best way to avoid fuss is to act like you belong there.