Brad Jones on Simplicity in Street Photography

Brad Jones, the featured photographer in the June 2025 issue of Street Photography Magazine, is a Brooklyn-based forensic photographer. Originally trained as a painter and illustrator, Brad discovered photography in college and spent 15 years building a successful commercial career shooting for magazines and advertising clients. However, his transition to forensic photography a decade ago, documenting scenes for insurance companies and legal proceedings, is the tipping point that led  to his passion for street photography.

Photographing destruction and tragedy in his professional work, Brad turned to street photography as what he calls an “antidote” – a way to seek beauty and joy in everyday moments. His project “A Fragile Utopia” captures candid moments in New York and surrounding areas.  His photographic approach on the street is shaped by his studio photography background.

Brad uses a methodical and intuitive approach to street photography, treating natural light like lighting he used in his studio work.  He uses consistent camera settings, often passing on shots that will not work with those settings. His work is recognizable by rich colors and moments of joy and connection. 

His advice to other street photographers centers on simplification and intuition: keep technical aspects consistent, don’t overthink compositions, and trust your initial gut reactions. As he puts it, “photograph hot and edit cold” – capture with passion and emotion, then evaluate with objectivity later.

Have a listen to my conversation with Brad, then be sure to read  Ashley Riffo’s feature article about Brad in the June issue Street Photography Magazine.