Where to Find Inspiration for Street Photography
When it comes to street photography, many people seem to be searching for that spark of creativity to get them going. Whether you’re feeling stuck or just looking to reignite your passion, inspiration is all around—you just need to know where to look. Here are some of the best places I’ve found to inspire myself as a photographer.
Photobooks: A Treasure Trove of Inspiration
“I personally find most of my inspiration through my collection of photobooks.”
Photobooks have always been my go-to source for inspiration. There’s something about holding a book in your hands and turning the pages that makes the work come alive in a way that digital images often don’t. If you’re looking to get inspired, find a few photographers whose work resonates with you, and dive into their books.
My personal favorite photo book and photographer of all time: The Mennonites – Larry Towell
How to Get Started:
- Buy photobooks: Invest in books by photographers you admire. It’s a way to study their style and see the world through their lens.
- Visit your local library: Libraries often have a collection of photobooks you can explore without spending a dime.
Recently Inspired By:
- Raúl Cañibano’s Absolute Cuba – His portrayal of Cuba is rich in culture and daily life.
- Daidō Moriyama’s Dear Mr. Niépce – A compelling exploration of urban life that has sparked new ideas for my own work.
Photobooks have the power to inspire travel and push me to explore new places. The images within them often open up a desire to see the world differently.
Where to Look Online?
While physical books are my favorite, the internet also offers plenty of resources for discovering great street photography.
“I used to find inspiration through browsing the Magnum archives, but it seems like it’s not that accessible anymore?”
Magnum’s archives, though less accessible now, remain a fantastic resource if you’re willing to sign up. However, for contemporary street photography, I recommend these two online sources:
Recommended Online Resources:
- Street Fight – A curated collection of dynamic street photography.
- HCSP (Hardcore Street Photography) – A community-driven platform where photographers share and critique work.
Both of these sites offer a variety of styles and perspectives, making them perfect for anyone looking to see a wide range of street photography online.
Where to Buy Photobooks?
If you’re looking to expand your photobook collection, Amazon is your best bet for affordability and variety.
“I was just in the Barnes and Noble recently looking for the latest Garry Winogrand: Winogrand Color, and it was listed at $85, but on Amazon, it’s listed at around $60.”
Tips for Buying Photobooks:
- Amazon: Often has the best prices and a wide selection.
- Small mom-and-pop bookshops: You might find hidden gems at great prices, so don’t forget to explore the small shops in your town.
While mainstream stores like Barnes and Noble can be nice to browse, they’re not always the best for finding a deal.
Look at Paintings
Inspiration doesn’t always have to come from other photographs. Sometimes, stepping outside of photography can breathe new life into your work.
“I recently had the great privilege of viewing some of Caravaggio’s work in Rome, which blew me away.”
Caravaggio’s use of chiaroscuro—the dramatic contrast between light and shadow—has deeply influenced my photography. His ability to create depth and emotion with light is a reminder that the principles of visual art are universal. I picked up Caravaggio: The Complete Works to study his paintings and to find new ways to incorporate light and shadow into my own images.
Why Look at Paintings?
- Gain a new perspective: Observing how painters like Caravaggio manipulate light can give you ideas for your photography.
- Inspiration beyond photography: Art outside of your medium can challenge you to think differently about your work.
Walk in Nature
Sometimes, the best way to find inspiration is to step away from the hustle and bustle altogether.
“I think walking in nature once per day is a good way to stay inspired.”
As street photographers, we can get caught up in the chaos of city life. Taking a break to walk in nature helps to rejuvenate the spirit and reconnect with the beauty of the natural world. It’s a time to breathe deeply, appreciate the quiet moments, and remind yourself why you love photography in the first place.
Benefits of Walking in Nature:
- Recharges creativity: The peace of nature can provide a mental reset.
- Encourages mindfulness: Being present in the moment helps you return to the streets with a fresh perspective.
- Fosters gratitude: Recognizing the beauty of our planet can inspire a sense of wonder and appreciation for life.
Conclusion: Stay Curious and Explore
Finding inspiration for street photography is about staying curious and being open to the world around you. Whether through photobooks, online resources, studying the masters of painting, or simply walking in nature, there are countless ways to ignite your creativity.
“What will reality manifest to be in a photograph?”
The journey of street photography is about embracing the mystery and the unknown, constantly seeking out new perspectives. Pick up your camera, find what inspires you, and let the world unfold in front of your lens.