Street Photography – My Most Unforgettable Character

I liked his beard and quiet demeanor, a school gentleman. We chatted at the de-icer located at the WAWA and he gave permission for me to photograph him. I’m preparing to do more street photography and capture the soul of Medford, NJ
Fast-forward to 2023, and I feel the need to hit the street again. I’ll probably go to the city of Philadelphia, PA. The city of brotherly love and still if I can photograph some love, like Walker Evans.

street photography boy on the bus

Walker Evans was a renowned American photographer known for his influential street photography during the Great Depression era. If you’re interested in capturing street photography in a similar style, here are some tips to consider:

Study Walker Evans’ Work: Before you start, take time to study Walker Evans’ photographs. Observe his composition, use of light and shadow, framing, and the emotions he captured in his subjects. Understanding his style will help you emulate it more effectively.

Use Black and White: Evans was known for his iconic black and white photographs. Consider shooting in black and white to capture the same timeless and documentary feel that his work exhibits.

Choose a Fixed Lens: Walker Evans often used a standard focal length lens, such as a 50mm or 35mm. Using a fixed lens can help you develop a closer connection with your subjects and encourage you to work on your composition.

Blend In: Like Evans, aim to blend in with the environment. Dress inconspicuously and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself. This will allow you to capture more candid and authentic moments.

Patience and Observation: Walker Evans was known for his patient approach to photography. Spend time observing your surroundings, waiting for the right moments to unfold. Patience often leads to capturing more meaningful and genuine shots.

Capture Emotion: Look for emotions and stories in the faces and actions of your subjects. Evans was skilled at capturing the everyday lives of people, often conveying deeper emotions through their expressions and interactions.

Focus on Details: Evans had a keen eye for capturing the small details that tell a larger story. Pay attention to textures, patterns, and objects that contribute to the overall atmosphere of the scene.

Document the Everyday: Much of Evans’ work focused on the ordinary lives of people. Look for beauty and significance in everyday moments, scenes, and interactions.

Respect Privacy: While capturing candid moments, be respectful of people’s privacy and personal space. Avoid intruding on intimate moments or making anyone uncomfortable.

Experiment with Composition: Explore different compositions, angles, and perspectives to add depth and visual interest to your photographs. Play with framing, leading lines, and negative space to create dynamic compositions.

Post-Processing: Evans’ photographs often had a raw and unedited look. While post-processing can enhance your images, try to maintain a natural and authentic feel.

Tell a Story: Walker Evans’ photographs often tell stories about the human condition and the society of his time. Aim to capture images that convey a narrative or evoke curiosity in viewers.

Remember that emulating a photographer’s style is a starting point for finding your own voice. As you practice and develop your skills, you’ll naturally infuse your own perspective and creativity into your street photography.

Regenerate

Walker-evans-photographing-america-1929-1947
NYC-street-photography
Brake-on-through-to-the-other-side