I recently adopted a new process with my photography, where I merely set the camera in automatic mode, and embrace the snapshot approach.
It’s simple and fun
I believe that simplicity is king. When it comes to photography, we often times get bogged down by the gear itself, camera settings, and other superfluous things. When it comes to the snapshot approach, it simplifies this. It allows you to simply remain in the moment, recognize the life in front of you, and press the shutter.
Think longevity
My goal is to photograph until the day that I die. Just think, as you grow older, are you going to want to carry around a big camera and use slow processes? The weight of the camera actually does matter. To be able to carry a camera with you wherever you go that fits in my pocket is critical for my daily practice and Photography.
Imperfection is more beautiful
When it comes to photography, I actually believe that imperfection is very beautiful. Especially in the realm of street photography where we embrace spontaneity, it only makes sense to not have everything perfectly aligned. The snapshot naturally embraces this imperfect aesthetic and it’s something that I have been interested in.
Speed
I find that the snapshot is the fastest approach to making a photograph. Just point and shoot, man! When I photograph something, I like to photograph with intensity. I will typically make many pictures of a single subject. I also enjoy moving my physical body while photographing. When you embrace the snapshot, it allows you to move fluidly through the streets, and press the shutter more often than not. A lot of the times, in street photography, we subscribe to the notion of the “decisive moment,” but I believe in speed. I say, click the shutter more than less.