Kleos (κλέος) is an Ancient Greek word meaning glory, renown, or fame, particularly in the context of heroic deeds and immortality through remembrance. It comes from the verb kleiō (κλείω), meaning “to celebrate” or “to make famous.”
In Homeric epic, kleos is a central concept, especially in The Iliad and The Odyssey, where heroes strive for eternal glory through their actions in battle or great journeys. It is often linked to the idea of kleos aphthiton (κλέος ἄφθιτον), or “undying fame”, which is the ultimate goal for a warrior—to be remembered forever.
I filmed over 13 hours of videos in Rome holy shit ha ha ha ha. I just put them into a playlist and I started re-watching some of my old videos today and I’m enjoying it so much. I’m so freaking glad that I record my thoughts with my GoPro. Reliving my own thoughts from the past is actually such an interesting approach to creating media… if you’re a photographer and you like to travel or just walk around and take pictures wherever you are, I highly recommend picking up a GoPro and film along your journey as well. Not only do you get to relive the photographs, but also the thoughts, and experiences, from a raw perspective.
“Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” — Matthew 18:3 (NIV)
What does it mean to become like a child?
Jesus wasn’t telling people to be childish but rather childlike—to approach life with humility, curiosity, and trust. A child is free from arrogance, open to learning, and full of wonder. This is the essence of faith: a heart unburdened by cynicism, embracing the present moment.
The Wisdom in Simplicity
In a world that glorifies complexity, Jesus points to simplicity. A child doesn’t overanalyze or scheme; they live in the moment, unburdened by ego.
Trust – A child trusts completely, without hesitation.
Curiosity – Everything is new and full of potential.
Humility – No pretense, no arrogance, just being.
The challenge for adults is unlearning the layers of skepticism, fear, and pride that accumulate over time.
Returning to the Beginner’s Mind
In photography, philosophy, and all creative pursuits, adopting a childlike mindset leads to breakthroughs. Every scene, every interaction, every moment is fresh. To truly see—to truly live—is to become like a child again.
Just treat photography, video, audio, writing, and everything you create like note taking. Notes are not finished products. Keep everything in flux and always changing- never complete. This is key for entering the flow state where everything you do becomes play.
• Middle English: virilite (adopted in the 15th century)
The term has long been associated with qualities traditionally attributed to men, such as strength, vigor, and reproductive capability. Over time, virility came to be used more broadly to refer to male sexual potency and overall physical robustness.
What’s poppin, people? It’s Dante. Today we’re going to be discussing how to get into the street photography flow state. Now, I believe the flow state—it’s what gives life meaning, purpose, and flavor.
“The more you think, the less you see. The less you think, the more you photograph.”
When I’m out there shooting, I enter this meditative state of simply observing patterns in nature and human behavior. Whether it’s the way light casts upon surfaces, giving form and shape to people, places, and things, or the way people move and gesture on the street—there’s something about flow that lets me press the shutter at the decisive moment. Photography requires you to be in tune with your intuition, in tune with the rhythm and beat of the street.
How to Enter the Flow State
Achieving flow in street photography is critical. When you’re in flow, photography feels effortless. You’re not overthinking. There’s no hesitation. You’re just connected with the streets, moving like water—reacting and anticipating moments without fear.
1. Eliminate Distractions
Put your phone away.
Turn off notifications.
Immerse yourself in the present moment.
2. Move Slower Than Everyone Else
“The slower you walk, the more details you will find, and the more photographs you will make.”
If you want to see more, slow down. As the bystander, the observer of life, the photographer—you enter the flow state by moving at a slower pace. When you slow your body down, you start noticing the mundane moments, the way light hits a wall, the gestures people make.
3. Stay in a State of Play
“The best photos come from being an active participant in the drama of the street.”
I don’t believe being in the flow state means being a stealthy fly on the wall all the time. Sometimes, the best images come from engagement. Whether it’s playing soccer with kids in Mumbai, having a quick chat with a stranger, or simply smiling—being present in the moment creates opportunities for richer photographs.
4. Forget the Outcome
Flow is about letting go. No expectations, no over-analysis. Just shoot.
Don’t judge your shots in the moment.
Don’t worry about good vs. bad photos.
Just follow your curiosity and trust the process.
Practical Tips for Achieving Flow
1. Simplify Your Gear
One camera, one lens.
Use auto or semi-auto modes (Aperture Priority, Program Mode).
The fewer technical distractions, the better.
2. Shoot More, Think Less
“If something intrigues you even 0.001%, just click the shutter.”
3. Use the LCD Instead of the Viewfinder
Shooting with the LCD makes composition more fluid. Less movement. Less hesitation. More spontaneous moments captured.
4. Let the Street Guide You
No planned routes.
Follow the light.
Let intuition decide whether you go left or right at an intersection.
Flow in Action: A Story from Mumbai
One of my favorite ways to enter flow is by simply following the light. In Mumbai, as golden hour hit, I positioned myself under a bridge where the light struck perfectly. Just as I was absorbing the scene, a car pulled up. Two kids in the backseat looked out at me, their faces lit by the golden glow. I responded instinctively, pressing the shutter at the perfect moment.
“The best photos simply come through entering the flow.”
I didn’t plan for that moment. I wasn’t searching for it. But by being in tune with my surroundings, I was ready when it happened.
The Joy of Street Photography
Flow state is where all my best photos happen. It’s where I find joy—simply moving my body, walking for miles, absorbing the sights and sounds of the city.
So I encourage you:
Slow down.
Enter the flow.
Embrace play.
Make more photos.
If you found this post helpful, check out more on my website dantesisofo.com and my YouTube channel. See you in the next one. Peace.
The contrast between piety and impiety is a key philosophical and theological discussion, especially in the context of Plato’s Euthyphro and broader religious thought.
Defining Piety and Impiety
Piety (Eusebeia in Greek): Traditionally understood as reverence, dutifulness, and devotion to the gods or divine principles. In a broader moral sense, it involves doing what is considered right, just, and virtuous.
Impiety (Asebeia in Greek): The lack of reverence or respect for the divine, religious customs, or moral duties. It can also mean actions that go against justice or virtue.
Piety vs. Impiety in Plato’s Euthyphro
Plato explores this dilemma in the dialogue Euthyphro, where Socrates questions the nature of piety:
Is piety what the gods love, or do the gods love it because it is pious?
This is the famous Euthyphro Dilemma, questioning whether morality is dictated by divine command or has an independent standard.
Circular Definitions:
Euthyphro initially defines piety as what the gods love, but Socrates dismantles this, showing that the gods often disagree.
A deeper definition is needed—one that is universal and not dependent on divine preference.
The Unresolved Ending:
Euthyphro fails to provide a satisfactory answer, highlighting the difficulty of grounding morality in divine will alone.
Piety vs. Impiety in a Broader Context
Religious Perspective:
In Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, piety is often linked to faith, obedience, and humility before God.
Impiety is seen as blasphemy, disobedience, or moral corruption.
Philosophical & Ethical View:
Kant would argue that morality is based on rational duty, not divine command.
Nietzsche, on the other hand, criticizes traditional piety, seeing it as a tool for societal control.
Modern Relevance
Today, the debate continues in secular vs. religious ethics:
Can morality exist without religion?
Is there an objective basis for right and wrong?
The piety vs. impiety debate ultimately forces us to ask: Is goodness inherent, or is it defined by external authority?
The Full Armor of God is a biblical metaphor found in Ephesians 6:10-18, where the Apostle Paul describes spiritual protection for believers in their struggles against evil. Each piece of armor represents a virtue or tool necessary for standing firm in faith.
Ephesians 6:10-18 (ESV)
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.”
The Armor of God and Its Meaning
The Belt of Truth(Ephesians 6:14)
Truth is foundational. It holds everything together, just as a belt secures armor. Living in truth protects against deception.
The Breastplate of Righteousness(Ephesians 6:14)
Righteousness (living in alignment with God’s will) guards the heart and soul, just as a breastplate protects a warrior’s chest.
The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace(Ephesians 6:15)
A firm foundation in the Gospel allows believers to stand strong and move forward with confidence in their faith.
The Shield of Faith(Ephesians 6:16)
Faith defends against spiritual attacks, much like a shield blocks arrows. Doubts and temptations lose power against unwavering trust in God.
The Helmet of Salvation(Ephesians 6:17)
Salvation protects the mind from fear and discouragement, keeping believers focused on their eternal hope in Christ.
The Sword of the Spirit (The Word of God)(Ephesians 6:17)
The only offensive weapon in the armor, the Word of God (Scripture) is used to combat lies, temptations, and attacks from the enemy.
Prayer(Ephesians 6:18)
Though not a piece of armor, Paul emphasizes prayer as the key to activating and strengthening each piece of armor.
The Purpose of the Armor
It is spiritual protection against evil influences.
It equips believers to stand firm in their faith.
It represents living out Christian virtues in everyday battles.
Paul’s message is clear: spiritual warfare is real, and the only way to stand strong is by wearing the full armor of God.
What’s poppin’ people? It’s Dante. Today, we’re going to be discussing fishing versus hunting in street photography. These are two fundamental techniques that we can use on the street.
I believe street photography isn’t binary. There aren’t just two ways to do things—it’s all about fluidity. Today, we’ll look at photos, behind-the-scenes videos, and even a contact sheet to break down how I integrate these techniques. Let’s get into it.
🎣 The Fishing Technique
The fishing technique is about patience and observation. You set your stage and wait for the right elements to enter the frame.
For example, in Tel Aviv, I positioned myself at a choke point on the beach, where people and dogs were naturally moving in and out of the frame. I wasn’t chasing moments—I was waiting for them to come to me.
“The art of fishing is pre-composing a photograph, having a pre-understanding of what the photograph can manifest into, and positioning yourself in a way that relates different elements in your frame.”
How to Use the Fishing Technique:
Find an interesting backdrop – murals, shadows, reflections, strong geometry.
Frame your shot before the subject enters – visualize how people will interact with the scene.
Wait for the right moment – patience leads to stronger compositions.
Example: Fishing at a Bus Stop in Philadelphia
I’ve used bus stops time and time again to practice fishing. They’re perfect because:
People are stationary or moving predictably.
There’s often great light and reflections.
It allows me to pre-compose and wait.
At this bus stop in Philly, I found beautiful light but no subjects. Instead of leaving, I waited, and eventually, everything aligned—the human element completed the scene.
🏃♂️ The Hunting Technique
The hunting technique is all about movement, instinct, and reacting in real-time.
Where fishing is patient and calculated, hunting is about staying light on your feet and ready to strike. It’s about walking the streets, scanning for opportunities, and reacting to the fleeting moments that appear and disappear in an instant.
“The hunting technique is all about staying light on your feet and ready to strike. By walking the streets and reacting in real-time to the moments that are fleeting, you want to move quickly, scanning for opportunities.”
How to Use the Hunting Technique:
Move with awareness and speed – always be alert.
Adjust your settings on the fly – be prepared for any lighting condition.
Look for expressions, gestures, and fleeting moments.
Example: Photographing a Wheelie in Philly
In Philadelphia, a man swooped by doing a wheelie. I had to drop low and react instantly to frame the shot. This was pure hunting—no time for planning, just instinct.
Another time in Mexico City, it started raining. I ran for cover and spontaneously captured a kiss in the moment. These are the shots you can’t predict—you just have to be ready.
The Hunting Technique in Action: Breaking Down a Contact Sheet from Zambia
In Zambia, I found myself in a bustling market, surrounded by energy, movement, and fleeting gestures. This was the perfect environment to apply the hunting technique—staying light on my feet, scanning for moments, and reacting instinctively.
The Moment
As I moved through the market, a man turned his head and locked eyes with me. The light hit just right, creating a striking contrast that immediately caught my attention. Without hesitation, I raised my camera and fired off a single frame.
“I made this photograph in a split second—no time to think, just pure instinct. The moment happened, and I was ready.”
Breaking Down the Contact Sheet
Looking back at the contact sheet, the story of the image unfolds:
First Frame: The moment the man glanced at me, I took the shot. His face, illuminated by the light, had a sense of intensity and curiosity.
Subsequent Frames: There were no second chances. The first shot was the best shot—the essence of the hunting technique.
Final Image: A bold, high-impact portrait captured in an instant, a testament to trusting your instinct in unpredictable environments.
Key Takeaways
✅ Trust your intuition – The best moments happen fast. Be prepared. ✅ Move with awareness – Observe your surroundings and anticipate gestures. ✅ Be ready to strike – Keep your settings dialed in, so you don’t miss the shot.
This moment in Zambia reinforced why the hunting technique is so essential in street photography. Some moments don’t wait—they demand action. When the opportunity presents itself, be ready to press the shutter.
⚖️ The Hybrid Approach: Mastering Both Techniques
So, which is better—fishing or hunting?
The answer: Neither. It’s about knowing when to switch between them.
“The best street photographers undulate between the two—not only responding quickly with intuition using the hunting technique but also knowing when to be still, patient, and fish for a scene.”
Example: Logan Square, Philadelphia
At Logan Square, I spent 2-3 hours photographing the fountain. I observed the way light reflected and how kids played.
I set my stage (fishing).
I responded instinctively when a boy leaped into the water (hunting).
This hybrid approach allowed me to capture a perfectly timed moment.
Practice Both Techniques
If you want to improve, I recommend dedicating entire sessions to each technique:
Fishing Days – Pick a bus stop, mural, or high-traffic area and wait for moments to unfold.
Hunting Days – Walk fast, react quickly, and look for fleeting gestures and interactions.
By mastering both techniques, you’ll become a more dynamic street photographer.
Final Thoughts
Street photography isn’t just about seeing—it’s about feeling the moment, moving your body, and being in tune with the energy of the streets. Whether you’re fishing, hunting, or blending both techniques, it’s all about adapting to the flow of the city.
What’s poppin’, people? It’s Dante. Today, we’re going to be discussing how to fill the frame in street photography. Over my decade-long journey of traveling, photographing, and mastering street photography, I want to give you some insight on how to create visually impactful images.
Why Filling the Frame Matters
A strong composition grabs attention and keeps the viewer engaged. A weak composition? It falls flat. I aim to create a visual feast, guiding the viewer’s eye throughout the different elements that make up the frame.
Example: Baltimore Street Scene
In this image from Baltimore, you can see how the eye travels throughout the frame, guided by the gestures of the boys playing and the way light gives shape and form to the decisive moment.
Elements That Help Fill the Frame
To create impact, consider the following:
Foreground, middle ground, and background relationships
Use of light and shadow
Strong symmetry and leading lines
Form, shape, and decisive moments
Every inch of the frame should serve a purpose—not just cramming things in, but making a visually pleasant experience for the viewer.
“What you exclude from the frame is just as important as what you include.”
Simplifying to Create Impact
A frame that feels full doesn’t mean cluttered. Filling the frame is about simplification.
Example: Palestinian Youth in Jericho
In this photograph, Palestinian youth are playing on cinder blocks. I used:
A foreground element (top half of a boy’s forehead)
A middle ground (a few different subjects making up the picture)
A relationship between elements (boy throwing a peace sign, mosque in background)
By being present and in the right position, I could naturally let the scene unfold and capture it effectively.
Contact Sheets: Analyzing the Frame
When reviewing my contact sheets, I see how I refine my composition through movement.
Initially, the frame may be flat.
By positioning my body correctly, I create depth and connect elements in a meaningful way.
Patterns and symmetry emerge naturally when you are hyper-aware of your background and foreground.
“Composition derives from your legs—move your body, not just your camera.”
Practical Techniques to Fill the Frame
1. Use Foreground Elements
Placing a subject in the foreground draws the viewer into the frame.
Example: In Mumbai, I positioned a boy’s gesture in the foreground to lead the viewer’s eye into the scene.
2. Stack Elements for Depth
Layering elements from foreground to background creates a visually rich frame.
Example: In Zambia, I positioned a boy washing in the foreground while including subjects in the middle ground to add layers of interest.
3. Work the Scene
Spending time at a location allows you to observe patterns and anticipate moments.
Example: In Napoli, I stayed at a scene for two hours, watching how moments unfolded naturally.
4. Get Closer
One of the most important techniques: physically move closer to your subject.
“The closer you get, the easier it is to fill the frame.”
Cropping later is not a solution.
Move your feet, not just your lens.
Filling the frame in-camera makes the composition stronger.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Too Much Empty Space – Move closer or reframe.
Cluttered & Unfocused Images – Prioritize the subject, use depth, and frame with intention.
Relying on Cropping Later – Train yourself to compose in-camera.
Final Thoughts
Filling the frame is about making every inch count. By moving closer, using foreground elements, and simplifying your compositions, you can create strong, visually compelling street photographs.
“In street photography, the more you walk, the more you see. The more you see, the more you photograph. The more you photograph, the more you learn.”
So go out there, shoot more, observe more, and apply these techniques. If you’re looking to improve your street photography, check out dantesisofo.com or my YouTube channel for more insights.
What’s poppin, people? It’s Dante. Today, we’re going to be discussing how to work the scene in street photography. And honestly, just being straight up with you, this is probably the most important post I’m making to date on street photography.
I believe there are misconceptions about street photography and the decisive moment. People think a photographer just clicks once and moves on. Well, I’m here to dispel that myth.
The Truth About Working the Scene
A lot of the photographs I’ve made came with lots of clicks, lots of shutter presses, and a lot of time spent. I don’t leave the scene until the scene leaves me.
What It Takes to Make a Strong Photograph
Patience – Sometimes you have to wait for the right moment.
Positioning – Your physical relationship to the scene matters.
“Don’t just take one shot and move on—work the scene and find the best way to make a composition.“
Working the Scene in Israel & Palestine
I want to share how I worked a scene on top of the wall that separates Israel and Palestine.
How did I make this photograph of a boy throwing a baby stroller against the wall? Courage. Repetition. Persistence.
I went back time and time again, week after week, and most of the time, nothing happened. The scene was empty, desolate. But eventually, through working the scene over time, I was able to make the photograph.
Contact Sheets: The Key to Understanding a Scene
In my contact sheet, you can see:
The initial moments – the boys being playful, throwing rocks.
Noticing the stroller – I knew there was potential here.
Adjusting my position – My first shots fell flat. I moved to the right, changed perspective, and suddenly, the wall and shadow created a more visually impactful image.
“By repositioning my body and adjusting the composition, I was able to make a photograph with more impact.“
Courage: The Core of Street Photography
Courage comes from the Latin word cor, meaning heart. Photography is a reflection of your heart.
We all feel fear when pressing the shutter.
We all feel awkward at times.
But pushing through fear leads to the best photographs.
Photographing Conflict in Jericho
I was in Jericho at a checkpoint, photographing clashes. There were shots going off. I had to move in and out quickly, waiting for the perfect moment to get the shot.
I followed my tactic:
Move in for 30 seconds.
Get the shot.
Move back before things get too dangerous.
The result? A tattered, masked man standing amid the smoke. The key to this photograph was:
Positioning my body as physically close as possible.
Using the rule of thirds to balance the composition.
Filling the frame with emotion and impact.
“Photography has nothing to do with photography. It has everything to do with how you engage with humanity.“
The Spirit of Play in Photography
Even in serious situations, I embrace play.Photography isn’t just about documenting life—it’s about engaging with it.
A Playful Photograph in Jericho
I saw a boy playing with his donkey in a smoky landscape. Instead of just snapping a quick shot, I:
Joked with the boy and built a connection.
Watched the scene unfold naturally.
Used the smoke and mountains as compositional elements.
By playing with the scene, I captured the boy revealing himself behind the donkey, adding mystery and intrigue.
Working the Scene Through Interaction
I entered Shuafat refugee camp in East Jerusalem. Going through the checkpoint, I felt the weight of the wall, the soldiers watching me.
Instead of being fearful, I embraced the spirit of play:
I interacted with people openly.
I got close to my subjects.
I allowed scenes to unfold naturally.
A Watermelon Vendor in Palestine
I noticed the beautiful pop of green from the watermelons. The light was striking. I sensed a potential photograph.
I positioned myself carefully.
I waited for the decisive moment.
I captured the vendor balancing a watermelon on his head, his joyous smile framed perfectly by light and shadow.
“Photography is a visual puzzle. Your job is to find the pieces and put them together.“
The Power of Observation
A strong foundation for composition comes from understanding light, human movement, and patterns.
A Funeral in Zambia
I spent a year in Zambia as a Peace Corps volunteer. At a funeral scene, I watched as mourners gathered.
I observed the dust rising from the ground.
I tracked the gestures of the grieving man.
I dropped to a low angle to emphasize his expression.
The final photograph was filled with emotion, depth, and storytelling.
Photography is Physical
You have to move your body. Drop low, step back, change angles. Every small movement changes the composition drastically.
Reposition yourself constantly.
Anticipate movement.
Observe and react.
Know When to Move On
Sometimes, the energy of a scene dies down. The light shifts. The moment passes.
Trust your gut.
Don’t overstay a scene.
Move to the next opportunity.
The Final Takeaway
If there’s one thing I want you to take away, it’s this:
“Don’t leave the scene until the scene leaves you.“
Go out there, experiment, fail, try again, and work the scene until you create something truly powerful.
