PHOT 464 Street Photography: History and Practice
Street photography is a genre of photography that captures everyday life in public places, usually in urban areas. It is a form of candid photography that captures people and their interactions with their environment. In this article, we will explore the history of street photography and the practice of capturing street photographs.
Table of Contents
History of Street Photography
Early Days of Street Photography
The history of street photography dates back to the late 19th century, when cameras became portable enough to be taken out of studios and into the streets. Early street photographers used large format cameras and tripods, making it difficult to take candid shots of people in public places. Despite this, photographers like Jacob Riis and Lewis Hine used their cameras to document social issues and the living conditions of the poor.
The Rise of 35mm Cameras
The introduction of 35mm cameras in the 1920s changed the game for street photography. These cameras were small, portable, and allowed photographers to take candid shots without drawing attention to themselves. Photographers like Henri Cartier-Bresson and Robert Capa used 35mm cameras to capture everyday life on the streets, creating iconic images that are still celebrated today.
Street Photography in the 20th Century
Street photography continued to evolve throughout the 20th century. The New York School of Photographers, which included artists like Diane Arbus and Garry Winogrand, focused on capturing the surreal and unexpected moments of everyday life. In the 1970s and 80s, street photography became more politically charged, with photographers like Martha Cooper and Jamel Shabazz documenting the rise of hip hop culture in New York City.
Contemporary Street Photography
Today, street photography is more popular than ever. With the rise of social media, it has become easier for photographers to share their work with a wider audience. Contemporary street photographers like Alex Webb and Mary Ellen Mark continue to push the boundaries of the genre, capturing the complex and diverse world we live in.
The Practice of Street Photography
Equipment for Street Photography
One of the great things about street photography is that you don’t need a lot of expensive equipment to get started. A basic digital camera or even a smartphone can work well. Some photographers prefer to use film cameras for a more authentic look. Whatever you choose, make sure it is portable and easy to carry around.
Composition Techniques
Composition is key in street photography. Some common techniques include:
Lighting for Street Photography
Lighting can be a challenge in street photography, especially when shooting in urban environments. Some tips for working with available light include:
Approaching Strangers
Approaching strangers can be intimidating, but it is often necessary for capturing candid shots in public places. Some tips for approaching strangers include:
Legal and Ethical Considerations
When photographing people in public places, it is important to be aware of legal and ethical considerations. Some things to keep in mind include:
Tips for Taking Great Street Photographs
Be Patient and Observant
One of the keys to capturing great street photographs is to be patient and observant. Take the time to look around and notice the details of your surroundings. Be willing to wait for the right moment to capture the shot you want.
Look for Interesting Light and Shadows
As mentioned earlier, lighting can be a challenge in street photography. However, it can also be an opportunity to create interesting and dynamic compositions. Look for interesting light and shadows, and use them to your advantage.
Use the Rule of Thirds
The rule of thirds is a basic composition technique that can be applied to many types of photography, including street photography. Divide the frame into thirds both horizontally and vertically, and place your subject at one of the intersection points. This can create a more dynamic composition than placing your subject directly in the center of the frame.
Experiment with Different Perspectives
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different perspectives when taking street photographs. Try shooting from a low angle or a high angle. Get close to your subjects or shoot from a distance. Changing your perspective can lead to more interesting and unique shots.
Capture the Moment
Finally, remember to capture the moment. Street photography is all about capturing the energy and spontaneity of everyday life. Be ready to take the shot when the right moment presents itself.
Conclusion
In conclusion, street photography is a fascinating and rewarding genre of photography that captures the essence of everyday life in public places. From its early days with large format cameras to its contemporary popularity on social media, street photography has continued to evolve and inspire photographers around the world. With a basic understanding of composition and lighting, and a willingness to be patient and observant, anyone can take great street photographs.
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