Street Photography Composition for Beginners
Now, let’s dive into the heart of street photography, where it’s about more than just pretty, empty streets. Really? Absolutely! Stick with me, and I’ll show you five fresh ways to bring your street photography compositions to life.
1. Capturing Life in Motion
Street photography isn’t just about capturing a human subject – it’s about capturing them in action. People in motion create dynamic, lively compositions that draw viewers in. Watch for the animated individuals in any scene – whether it’s someone in the middle of a heated phone call, a group of people pointing every which way as they decide where to go, or someone struggling with a heavy bag across the street. These are the moments that add life to your photos and spark curiosity in your audience.
Lumix GX80, Lumix 20mm f/1.7. Edited using my Sirolo Lightroom Preset.
2. The Power of Color
Color plays a massive role in photography, guiding the viewer’s eye and conveying emotion. Bright, vibrant colors can be incredibly effective, especially when paired with complementary or contrasting hues. On a recent trip with my Lumix GX80, I noticed how the blue of the ocean played off the varying skin tones of people in my shots. A splash of color can transform a mundane scene into something eye-catching and memorable. If you’re struggling with how to find color contrasts in the street, keep a mental note of the color wheel.
Lumix GX80, Lumix 20mm f/1.7. Edited using my Sirolo Lightroom Preset.
3. Patterns and Playfulness
Using color in patterns can be a playful and powerful tool. Take, for example, a person walking under a row of rainbow-colored flags while wearing a rainbow umbrella hat. The repetition and mirroring of colors can add a layer of whimsy that anyone can understand. Or consider pairing patterned prints in your shots – like a person in a floral shirt against a backdrop of similar prints. This approach not only complements your subjects but also adds depth and texture, making your image much more interesting.
Lumix GX80, Lumix 20mm f/1.7. Edited using my Sirolo Lightroom Preset.
4. Mastering Layers in Your Composition
Ogres aren’t the only things with layers – your photos should have them too! Think of your composition in three parts: foreground, mid-ground, and background. For instance, use foreground elements like leaves or branches to frame a subject or to obscure certain details. This can create intrigue by forcing the viewer to imagine what’s hidden. You can even use objects like a lamp post to block part of a person’s face, turning a potentially dull subject into something mysterious and engaging.
Lumix GX80, Lumix 20mm f/1.7. Edited using my Sirolo Lightroom Preset.
5. Finding Beauty in the Details
Sometimes, it’s not about the sweeping cityscape or the broad street scene – it’s about the little things. Recently, I’ve been fascinated by capturing small, often overlooked details like hands behind someone’s back. It’s a simple yet effective way to convey the human experience without relying on facial expressions. These tiny details, when captured across different subjects, cities, and times, can tell a powerful story when viewed collectively. They hint at the emotions and personalities behind the people in your shots, all without needing a close-up.
Lumix GX80, Lumix 20mm f/1.7. Edited using my Sirolo Lightroom Preset.
Keep Exploring
Street photography is an endless adventure, with new lessons to learn at every corner. Remember, it's not just about capturing a moment but about telling a story, evoking emotions, and finding beauty in the mundane. Keep your eyes open, your camera ready, and stay curious!
