Street Photography
But He Knows Where I Am Going…
The Art of Street Photography
Street photography is a breathtaking category of photography that allows you to capture and freeze intriguing aspects of life’s existence. At Speech-In-Sights Photography, we acknowledge that street photography can also be used as a creative tool that captures the easily overlooked, but unforgettable moments stamped in time in the ever busy world in which we live. Now, it is time to look at this peculiar type of art more closely and discover how street photograpy can change the way we perceive the world.
Understanding Street Photography
Definition and Essence
Street photography is the art of shooting people or subjects, especially in public places, without the photographer drawing undue attention. It aims to narrate the story in the mundane. Street photography can be arguably described as the intersection between landscape photography and portrait photography.
Historical context
This category has its origins in the infancy of photojournalism, with luminaries such as Henri Cartier-Bresson. Their work showed how moments that exist only for a second could be captured and turned into a form of art.
Essential Techniques for Street Photographers
Mastering composition
The one essential aspect that is very commonly emphasized in street photography is composition. Acquiring knowledge about commonly used rules, such as the “rule” of thirds, leading lines, and framing, will improve the quality of your image. Consider the background and how it positions your main subject before hitting the shutter button. Remember, the story may yet remain untold until the composition is right. Unfortunately, there may not be a second chance to obtain the right composition, so; “BE PREPARED”.
Embracing spontaneity
Spontaneity remains an asset of inestimable value in street photography because the scenes are transient and unpredictable. Vigilance and concentration are key. This skill is learned with time, and some photographers would probably argue that it is an instinct.
Equipment Considerations
Choosing the right camera and lens
Although any type of camera can be used for street photography, most professionals advise using small, unobtrusive cameras and lenses.
Many street photographers use the 35mm wide angle prime lens or a 50mm prime lens known as the standard lens because it provides the same angle of view as the human eye.
Many argue that the 85mm prime lens is a superb lens for street photography. I use the Canon EF 85mm f1.4L lens. Compact system cameras, also called mirrorless cameras and high-end point-and-shoot cameras can also be used because of their compact size and good picture quality.
A tripod stand is not a very essential tool in street photography because of the pace at which events unfold on the streets.
Conclusion
Street photography is an excellent form of communicating the social narrative and art. It allows people view the world differently and find the true meaning of life in ordinary things. Before you start your street photography, please be mindful that each picture you capture talks about the great world that we live in. Through your lens, people can become heroes of stories that are buried deep in everyday routines.
That is why, at Speech-In-Sights Photography, we want to turn you into a lover of this fascinating genre. Allow your images to preach and remind viewers about the beauty of creation so people can find their moments of respite and embrace the beauty present in everyone’s lives.
