Capturing Philadelphia: Olu Okiemute’s Perspective on Street Photography
Olu Okiemute, a Philadelphia-based street photographer, brings a unique and vibrant perspective to the art form. His work is rooted in the city he knows so well, capturing everything from the bustling streets to the quiet moments underground. Through his lens, Olu documents the raw and diverse character of Philadelphia, offering a visual narrative that is both personal and universal.
From Trains to People: A Photographer’s Journey
Olu’s love for photography began when he was just 8 years old. His early work focused on trains, reflecting his fascination with the city’s transportation systems. Over time, his subject matter expanded.
“I used to just take pictures of trains until I was like 14, and then I realized you could take pictures of people.”
This shift marked the beginning of his journey into street photography. Today, Olu captures a wide range of subjects, including people, subway tunnels, and even horses, reflecting the eclectic nature of life in Philadelphia.
Daily Loops and Philly’s Character
Olu’s typical photo walk takes him through some of Philadelphia’s most iconic areas:
- City Hall
- Chestnut Street to Rittenhouse Square
- Market East to Chinatown
- Dilworth Plaza
“We’re going for the highest traffic density, most diversity, and seeking human interaction—touches, hands, textures, and characters.”
His approach is grounded in the belief that street photography is about being present, observing life as it unfolds, and capturing moments of authenticity.
Gear and Techniques
Olu’s choice of equipment reflects his need for versatility and spontaneity. His go-to cameras include:
- Nikon F100: Ideal for fast-paced environments, with a continuous shutter for capturing fleeting moments.
- Hasselblad: Used for more deliberate, composed shots, offering a different pace and aesthetic.
“The Hasselblad is fun too. People think it’s a toy—they don’t take it seriously, which works in my favor.”
He blends traditional and modern techniques, often switching between range-focusing and critical focusing, depending on the situation.
Philadelphia’s Influence
Olu’s deep connection to Philadelphia is evident in his work. Born and raised in the city, he finds inspiration in its unique blend of cultures, architecture, and communities.
“Philadelphia has everything I want to capture—architecture, microcosms of weird subculture, horses, old railroad infrastructure. It’s all here.”
His love for the city extends to its people, capturing the sense of community and connection that defines Philadelphia.
The Art of Community and Collaboration
For Olu, photography is more than a solitary pursuit. He values collaboration and the shared experience of capturing moments together.
“I love to walk together, to be curious and develop relationships. It’s about enjoying the fruits of our labor as a collective.”
Although he laments the decreasing frequency of group photo walks, Olu remains committed to fostering community through his work.
Gallery Shows and Instagram
Olu prefers to showcase his work in galleries rather than on social media. He believes in the power of physical prints to convey the full context and impact of his photographs.
“Printed work in a gallery allows people to see the photos large and in-person. It’s a much more rewarding experience than scrolling on a screen.”
Though he shares some older work on Instagram, his more recent and significant pieces are reserved for exhibitions.
Philosophy and Future Goals
Olu’s philosophy is rooted in passion and love for the craft.
“I take photos because I love it. I love everyone, everything. It’s an act of love, capturing moments that will last for hundreds of years.”
His short-term goal is to improve his craft and produce more work worthy of sharing. Long-term, Olu aspires to balance his full-time job with his passion for photography, dedicating more time to creating and refining his art.
Conclusion: A Lifelong Commitment
For Olu Okiemute, street photography is not just a hobby—it’s a way of life. His work captures the essence of Philadelphia, preserving its stories for future generations. With a deep respect for his craft and an unwavering love for his city, Olu continues to push the boundaries of what street photography can achieve.
“Photography is my responsibility. When you decide to be a photographer, you commit to documenting life, capturing its beauty and chaos.”
Key Takeaways:
- Roots in Train Photography: Olu’s journey began with photographing trains before shifting to people and street life.
- Philadelphia as Muse: His deep connection to the city shapes his photography, capturing its unique blend of cultures and architecture.
- Collaborative Spirit: Olu values community, often walking and shooting with others to foster shared experiences.
- Gear Choice and Adaptability: Uses both Nikon F100 and Hasselblad for versatility in fast and slow-paced environments.
- Preference for Galleries: Believes in the power of physical prints to provide context and impact beyond social media.
- Philosophy of Love and Legacy: Photography for Olu is an act of love, aiming to create a lasting legacy through meaningful images.