Union Square has a knack for drawing the talented, the bored, and the show-offs to its broad open spaces. For that reason I gravitate to this part of the city on a daily basis in order to capture some of its magic and to add some of my own. Now Occupy Wall Street protesters have bitten off quite a chunk of the south side of Union Square, and in response, police officers hover around the perimeter of the park, poised to stop anything unruly or obstructive. Despite surveillance, artists, street performers and park-goers don’t seem to shy away from self expression. Rush hour is a great time to take photos not only because the park is flooded with characters, but also because it’s then that the sun is likely to create interesting highlights and shadows on faces.

I can’t take credit for the hopeful expression and adorable curls on this miniature subject, but the black railings in Union Square work well to frame a portrait, and that’s what I was going for.

Sometimes I prefer to photograph audiences rather than their entertainers, simply because the expressions are more genuine and lack the motives that many performers tend to have.

A group of breakdancers were showing off their moves on the southwest corner of Union Square on this particular afternoon, and a large crowd was forming around them. Perhaps it was because of the noise, or maybe it was the proximity of the crowd to the subway station entrance, but police officers drew the curtains soon after the show started.

Her gold mane and eclectic style were what drew me to her at first, but the story that unfolded here was purely happenstance.

The atmosphere at Union Square since its occupation is thick with hope and affection. From what I see, the protesters are powered by a strong support system, so it’s no wonder they have lasted so long.

The flower vendors at the Union Square Greenmarket add a lot of color to the north side of the park and make a colorful background for any subject. The blush of the woman’s stockings caught my eye just as I was admiring a group of tulips nearby.

Fortunately for me, the city has an obsession with tulips. Every park corner is adorned with the things, and they make a perfect garnish for spring photos.

Heather Holland is a community contributor to The Local East Village. Her work can be seen here.