When we think of facial expressions, the name Bruce Gilden usually jumps to the fore, due to his outrageous street portraits. But of course, who wouldn’t pull a psycho killer face, when a flash explodes in front of you and a camera is poked under your nose.

Bruce, of course, is a master of what he does and a master on the streets of New York.

He uses expression to evoke thought and paint a thousand words.

We use facial expressions to tell a story when speaking, so it is a crucial part of a visual image. It helps to evoke a story or give the viewer at least some guidance.

Even a blank expression gives us irony and hopefully a smile.

In texting, we use emoticons for laughter, shock, horror, tears or embarrassment.

It’s hardly Classical Art, but we know how someone is feeling. It’s helps to give clarity and avoids situations being misconstrued. So, go ahead and give me those love hearts and make me smile.

The classic Street Photographers were always looking for an image that would hold your gaze, tell you a story or make you laugh. They usually left the tears to the photojournalist, to highlight the world’s plight.

One shocking image of a crying child, usually does the trick.

Of course, mere expressions without a street setting, can leave one feeling a little short changed. Recently, our group took the challenge of ‘Facial Expressions’ and responded brilliantly, by giving us tears of joy and stories to behold:

#The screaming child yearning for our attention,with its snotty nose and a shrill to burst the ear drums.

#Horrified looks as the show commences, the acting astounds.

#Passionate pleas for justice,as the demonstration unfolds.

#Groups infecting the masses with laughter and joy, as the story is told.

#A lick of the lens by a bulldog, to plant a heart warming smile upon our faces.

Please put in #facialexpressionchallenge to see the amazing images.

Below,and in order, are the five top images, as voted by the Progressive gang.

So, until the next challenge and from all of the gang, thank you and…….

Robert Bannister

Proof Read and cups of tea made by C.S Bannister