One of the cleanest and most complete guides I’ve ever come across in the street photography genre.
Lessons learned:
- Buy books, not gear.
- The only way money might make you happier in photography is if you invest it in experiences.
- Most famous photographers are known for only two or three of their most popular images, often recognized after they passed away. If you manage that, you’ve already made a meaningful contribution as a photographer.
- Street photos of people simply walking past billboards are boring.
- No amount of post-processing can turn a mediocre photo into a good one.
- Spend 99% of your time editing your photos, choosing the best ones, and only 1% post-processing them.
- Most people on the internet don’t know what makes a great street photograph. Don’t rely too much on likes, comments, or favorites on social media. Instead, spend time in serious public critique groups focused on street photography.
Favorite quotes:
- “Shooting from the hip on a busy street is fun, but ultimately there are far more misses than hits.”
- “The best streets urge you to stay; the road is an endless incentive to leave.”
- “Some photographers literally shove the camera in a person’s face, and their reaction becomes the photograph. This accusation has been aimed at Bruce Gilden—but he does it with a degree of empathy. He gives people time; he doesn’t seek conflict. Unfortunately, some street photographers do enjoy conflict. Unlike Gilden, they are not members of Magnum.”