Street Photography Interview: Docu Magazine Vol. 10
A Conversation About Street Photography
This interview was originally published in Docu Magazine. It is a short conversation about how I came to photography, what I look for in a photograph, and how I think about sharing work today.
Jump to: becoming a photographer · the biggest lesson · advice for photographers · what makes a good photo · social media and photography.
How did you become a photographer?
As long as I can remember, I have been fascinated by visual art and photography. As a child, my father’s darkroom was an unforgettable place. Among strange, unfamiliar chemical smells, I learned from him the craft of film development. I was mesmerised by the moment an image appeared on paper that, seconds before, had been empty. A small miracle in the eyes of a child.
That interest in the process never left me. I continue to research, learn and photograph to this day.
What has been your biggest lesson as a photographer?
For me, enjoying the process of taking photographs is the most important thing. I have also learned that there is more than one way to make a good photograph. Creativity is the key.
What advice would you give an amateur photographer?
- Keep pursuing the light. As a photographer, light is your canvas. On the street it is not always easy to find the right light on your subject; practise and master that skill.
- Practise daily and get to know your equipment well.
- Wait before publishing fresh photographs. A little distance helps you see them more clearly.
- Look for unusual situations on the street.
- If you have questions, get in touch, join a street photography workshop in Berlin, or join a photowalk anywhere in Europe. We learn from each other.
In your opinion, what is a good photograph?
If a photograph activates an emotion in me, it is good. Technique, composition, editing and light all matter, but for me the content creates the first impression.
How do you feel about social media today?
I can see both sides. Social media can make the craft of photography feel casual and, in some ways, disrespect it. Compared with a print, an image is usually seen on a small display with a limited colour range. It is unframed and unsigned, and it can easily be re-edited, republished or copied.
On the other hand, it lets artists connect easily. It enables open and honest discussion about art and photography. Like it or not, it is part of our present and future.
In photography and visual art, social media can be a powerful tool when it is used thoughtfully. In the end, I usually see it as a good thing.
Originally published in Docu Magazine, 1 February 2023.