The Art of Self-Reflection in Street Photography
When we think of self-portraits, we might picture a photographer standing in front of their camera, the self-timer ticking down, or perhaps a candid reflection caught in a window, reminiscent of Vivian Maier's mysterious style. But the truth is, every photograph we take in the streets leaves behind subtle breadcrumbs of our identity, collectively painting our own self-portrait.
So, what does this self-portraiture truly look like? A single image can tell us a lot about the photographer's state of mind. For instance, a lonely street scene might suggest feelings of isolation, while a playful shot with a dog could reveal a sense of humor and a love for animals.
Street photography transcends mere documentation; it’s a reflection of how we perceive the world around us. This personal touch isn’t confined to one style; whether you lean towards abstract, storytelling, or semi-candid portraits, your unique perspective will shine through.
Reflecting on my own journey, I’ve attended just one photography workshop—a street photography class inside an art gallery led by the talented Paul Harrison. That single experience was transformative. It introduced a level of structure to my photo walks that I hadn’t realized I needed. Instead of aimlessly wandering, I learned to focus on a smaller area, opening my eyes to the intricate details that might create a compelling image.
Once you integrate new techniques into your photography, they become part of your toolkit, enhancing your creative process rather than dictating it. It's essential to listen to your instincts about what makes an interesting image for you, rather than chasing after popular trends or replicating others’ work.
At times, I find myself overly critical of my recent shots, feeling that they reflect my current abilities. Yet, when I take a moment to look back, I see the progress I’ve made—not just in technical skills, but in how authentically I convey my personality through my images. That realisation is incredibly uplifting, reminding me that there’s always room for growth.
But here’s a gentle reminder: don’t get caught up in the endless scroll of used cameras online. Instead, focus on what truly matters—developing your craft. Speaking of tools, I offer three preset packs—Kodak Film Stocks, Fujifilm Film Stocks, and Naturally Filmic—that I personally use in my editing process.
As you make street photography a habit, you’ll notice your style evolving. Don’t stress if you’ve been shooting the same way for a year or two; you have the freedom to experiment and change your approach at any time. It’s crucial to embrace different techniques and find what resonates with you.
One of my biggest hurdles has been comparing myself to others, thinking I should mimic their successes. But the reality is, we’re all on different paths, and there are no wrong answers in street photography. Yes, learn from others, but always strive to develop your own voice.
There are three key ways our personalities shine through our work:
How We Shoot: Some photographers keep their cameras low-key, capturing candid moments without drawing attention. Others boldly engage their subjects, bringing a participatory element to their work. Both methods can create distinct narratives in your images.
The Subjects We Choose: The split-second decision to capture an image or let it pass shapes your photographic journey. It’s about finding those moments that resonate with you, whether they’re loud and obvious or subtle and intimate.
How We Communicate: Do we sneak a shot and quickly move on, or do we engage with our subjects? Owning the moment—smiling and connecting—can enhance your experience and the story you tell through your images.
I’ve found that inviting subjects into the process not only enriches the photograph but also creates potential connections on the street. It’s a more enjoyable and fulfilling way to practice.
