Love for the game
When it comes to street photography, the process is important to love. While I believe that street photography is easy and accessible for all, the process can become grueling at times when you realize that it takes much time to see any results that please you. This is where it’s important to recognize the process of making photos as a stream of becoming.
The stream of becoming
It’s always onto the next one. The goal is to make new photos. The beauty of photography is that you could never make two photos exactly the same even if you tried. Treat every photograph you create as a new question you are asking the world. This will allow you to remain curious throughout your process of making pictures and not get caught up on traditional notions of what success means.
Is it good?
How do you know if your photos are good? I believe that it’s time to move on from traditional notions of what makes a good or bad photograph. Does it resonate with you? Does the photograph bring you joy? This is most critical. I believe a successful photograph asks more questions than gives answers. If you’re curious and want analysis on your photographs, just send them to ChatGPT and have them review the picture.
Be a tourist
Even if you walk the same lane every single day in your hometown, you should treat yourself like a tourist. I believe this is a great way to enjoy the process of making pictures. Oftentimes we get bored of going the same path or photographing the same location over the years, but what if your lust for photography could last forever in one place? This is possible through a curious, childlike mindset. Forget everything you think you know, and treat yourself like a tourist in your hometown. I love to discover new things and learn about the history of different streets, statues, and buildings when I head out with my camera. Dig deeper with each photo walk you embark on. Become a flaneur and find joy in discovery. Treat the photographs you create are a byproduct of the adventure.
Find joy in discovery
One of the great joys of making photographs is it gives you an excuse to go out there and see the world. Treat the camera like a passport and go out there with an open and curious mind. When I explore the world without any preconceived notions of what I will find, I oftentimes discover new things. Through walking, observing, and interacting with strangers on the streets, you can learn from the experience.
Learn on the street
Treat your photography as a work in progress. The goal is to forever remain an amateur. This will allow you to never run out of new things to try or learn. Personally, I find it liberating to return to black-and-white and explore the foundation of the medium. This is a really great way to experiment and to push what a photograph can potentially be. When you transcend reality and strip away the color, you are naturally abstracting life and creating an artistic depiction of the world. This offers more flexibility and creative freedom to push the boundaries and embrace the process of making new pictures in the long run. Think longevity.