Exploring the Dynamic Spectrum of Street Photography: Eight Unique Approaches

Street photography depicts daily life in extraordinary manners. From uncommon instances to visually striking portraits, each style provides a distinct viewpoint through which to observe the universe. Grasping these styles can assist you in honing your technique or delving into fresh artistic avenues.

Presented by Micael Widell, this captivating video delineates eight unique styles of street photography. The first is the “clever and rare moments” photographer. These photographs compel a second glance, exposing patterns or instances that appear nearly unattainable to seize. Widell emphasizes the contributions of Siegfried Hansen and Jeremy Page, whose images leave viewers contemplating how such exact timing is achievable. Their capacity to notice these transient moments evokes both admiration and intrigue.

The second style is “streetscape,” where the environment itself takes precedence. While individuals may populate these images, they often take a backseat to the allure or ambience of the location. Widell references artists like Faisal Westcott, who excels in discovering stunning, layered landscapes that capture attention. Black-and-white streetscape photography is also highlighted, featuring Alan Schaller’s distinctive high-contrast approach within this category.

Widell then transitions to “people-focused street photography.” This encompasses spontaneous street portraits capturing individuals in an unposed manner, often reflecting genuine and heartfelt expressions. Photographers based in New York, similar to those showcased in Paulie B’s channel, exemplify this style. Another variation is “prompted street portraits,” where you solicit someone’s permission to take their photograph. This approach demands confidence and fosters a cooperative relationship between you and your subject.

A particularly captivating style is “documentary street photography.” In this case, the emphasis transitions to immersing oneself in a scene or event, documenting it from various perspectives to convey a cohesive narrative. Eduardo Ortiz is recognized for his talent in blending into his environment and engaging with subjects while producing meaningful collections of images. His work is noted for its richness and storytelling quality. That’s only the beginning, so be sure to watch the video above for the complete overview from Widell.