Street Photography with a Documentary Approach
Over the years, I found that approaching the streets in new places requires a documentary photographer’s mindset. While I’m interested in the aesthetics of street photography and the candid, spontaneous nature of making photographs, it becomes difficult when working in new communities.
What’s the Difference?
When I consider documentary and street photography, the main difference is time and connection:
- Street Photography: You remain a fly on the wall, rarely interacting with people, making pictures, and moving on. Anyone can pick up a camera and walk the streets, capturing fleeting moments.
- Documentary Photography: It’s about spending extended time in a specific location, integrating into the community, and becoming closer to the subjects on a personal level. This approach allows for a deeper understanding of the place.
“Access allows for storytelling without the need for posing, giving the work a natural authenticity.”
Access is Key
One simple way I found to achieve this deeper connection is by carrying an Instax camera. When you approach a scene or group of people, offer to make prints and gift portraits to people in the moment. This small gesture sets people at ease and builds trust. With this trust, you can then:
- Make more work in the same place.
- Return regularly to continue photographing.
- Capture candid moments without needing to ask for permission.
Carry an instant camera, and you’ll gain instant access.
Getting Closer
When I spent time photographing in Jericho, I made it a point to return after six months of photographing there and spent another three months living with a family. Each morning, I’d knock on Mohammed’s door, share breakfast with him, and he’d guide me around town. This kind of access comes only when you truly integrate into a community and spend time there.
Building Relationships
With Mohammed, I was introduced to Hassan, an old man with a small garden. Every day, we’d water his crops, sit on his porch, and talk about life. Hassan even took us to the desert where Mohammed and I hiked around the river in Jericho. These moments led to photographs that captured the soul of the place.
Make a Friend
Having a friend is crucial, especially when you’re photographing in unfamiliar or potentially dangerous areas. Once, a young man broke my camera strap during a confrontation. When Mohammed found out, he explained to the people that I was no threat and even fixed my camera strap using tape.
“Building a relationship in a new community can be simpler than it seems.”
The Value of Depth
When you get closer to a community through a documentary approach, the photographs you create become much more compelling and interesting than simple candid street snaps. With access, you can tell a visual story without posing people, revealing the true character of a place.
Combining the Best of Both Worlds
- You can have a documentary photographer’s approach, yet still remain in the vein of street photography.
- It’s less about whether the work is street or documentary and more about the stories you’re able to tell.
- The deeper the connection, the more authentic the work.
In the end, I’ve found this approach to be the reason I’ve had success in making candid photographs over the years.
Carry an instant camera, make a friend, and let your work speak for itself.