Portraits of Suraj Patel

Portraits of Suraj Patel by Angela CappettaAnybody who knows me knows I don't like getting political. In mixed company, no good can come of it. I keep the discussion on my shoots to general subjects, and questions for my subjects which are relevant to their life. I think basic human decency overrides anything a pundit or politician could every say. But I do love photographing politicians. The drive they have comes clear into focus when you put one of them in front of a lens. This up and comer in the Democratic scene is no exception. Suraj Patel calls himself an Obama democrat. I asked him about my idea of cash-for-clunkering E-vehicles these days, and he smartly knew that there was a 1 year waiting list for such automobiles right now. That wasn't really a political question, just a practical one. If there were such a program, I'd be the first on in line. Having said that, Suraj was a great subject. It was pouring rain outside, and he showed up undeterred and ready to go. An NYU trained lawyer as well as a midwestern boy from Indiana, Suraj is the child of immigrants. A first gen brother. Suraj was, rightly, worried that his hair was wet, but since I don't own a hair dryer, we worked around it. He also brought some excellent glasses. One pair even had non glare lenses, perfect for a photo shoot. He is a cool guy and, no doubt, is a rising star in Congress.Thanks Suraj!