Crafting narratives with street photography.

What is street photography?

Street photography in Australia opens a window to the soul of its vibrant urban landscapes and multicultural heartbeat. From Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach, buzzing with life and color, to the graffiti-adorned laneways of Melbourne, street photography offers a glimpse into the everyday lives of people moving through these spaces. It’s where art meets real life, portraying scenes and moments that are unposed, unplanned, and completely candid. 

“A lot of street photography is responding to life. It’s when you see an interaction or a person in a certain space and you want to record that,” shares Adam Long, both a seasoned photographer and an educator. What makes this genre special, much like photojournalism, is that it doesn’t confine itself to the controlled environment of a studio; rather, it thrives amidst the unpredictability of the world outside.

While navigating the ever-changing light, capturing fleeting moments, and finding beauty in the every day may sound daunting, it's precisely what makes street photography so rewarding. "It's all about learning to define and refine what you see in an interesting way," shares photographer Anthony Pidgeon, highlighting the unique challenge and charm of this genre of photography. Street photography invites you to document life in its raw, unscripted form, offering a playground for technical mastery and creative exploration. For those dipping their toes into the world of photography, it’s an excellent opportunity to sharpen your skills and carve out your own artistic viewpoint amidst the chaos and serendipity of the streets.

Discover what inspires you.

Embarking on a street photography journey invites you to deeply connect with your surroundings, be it an iconic landmark in a bustling city or the tranquil rhythm of small-town coffee shop. It's about more than just the location; it's the stories and the atmosphere that each place uniquely offers. “If there’s something I want to capture, I scout the location beforehand. How does this look on a cloudy day? How does it look on a sunny day? What about at night versus in the morning?” says Pidgeon. This exploration not only fuels your creativity but also guides you to capture more compelling snapshots of daily life.

Diving deeper into the heart of street photography might mean stepping out of your comfort zone and tackling some street portraits too. Instead of just doing a “smash and grab photo, I like to talk to people and see what they’re up to that day. Then I might make a portrait of them,” says Long. This approach transforms a fleeting moment into a meaningful interaction, enriching both your experience and your portfolio. Whether it's a candid capture or an impromptu portrait, each photo becomes a narrative of your adventures and discoveries, be it while traveling or close to home.

As you venture into the world of street photography in Australia, remember to embrace the unique themes that define our nation. From the colourful tapestry of multicultural festivals to the laid-back charm of beach culture and the captivating presence of urban wildlife, there's a wealth of inspiration waiting to be discovered. So grab your camera, hit the streets, and let your creativity roam free as you capture the essence of Australia through the lens of street photography. 

Don’t forget about editing.

While street photography often embraces the timeless look of black and white, pioneers like Joel Meyerowitz have shown us the vivid impact of colour. Worried about your shot being ruined by bright signs or distracting lights? Don’t let this deter you; with Adobe Photoshop Lightroom, you can shoot in colour and convert your images into black and white later if needed. This approach not only enhances the versatility of your captures but also allows you to play with the mood and focus of your images during post-processing. It’s a powerful way to ensure your photographs tell the story you want, whether in the stark contrasts of monochrome or the rich details of colour.

Recognise the rules of the street.

“There’s a reasonable expectation that when you’re out in public, you’ll get photographed. Whether it’s by the camera on top of the street sign or at the ATM,” says Long. Taking photos of people and things in public places is completely legal, but “I think it’s really important to be respectful of people’s space. Because even though — technically — you can do it, not everybody wants their photo taken,” says Pidgeon. At its core, street photography is a celebration of life's unscripted moments, but it's crucial to approach it with kindness and respect. While the bustling streets serve as an open stage, private spaces hold different rules. Before venturing onto private grounds, whether it's a hidden alley or someone's garden, seeking permission is essential.

Find inspiration in stunning street photography.

If you're dipping your toes into the bustling world of street photography, you might find it's not as unfamiliar as you think. Take "Humans of New York"—a project that marries portraiture with storytelling, offering glimpses into the lives of strangers on the streets. It's a prime example of what makes street photography so compelling. And then there's Walker Evans, whose candid shots from the Great Depression era have left an indelible mark on both history and the art of photography. Seeking further inspiration? The realm of street photography is rich with visionaries whose work can spark your creative fire and push you to capture the untold stories unfolding around you every day.