Street Photography Magazine

In a heartfelt conversation, the late Glenn Capers, a renowned photographer and storytelling teacher, shares his unique approach to street photography. He delves into how meaningful connections with subjects enrich the art, emphasizing that listening is just as critical as photographing. Glenn reflects on the journey of creating a street photography book, balancing personal anecdotes with the evolution of visual storytelling. He urges photographers to engage authentically with their subjects, capturing life's essence through cultural understanding and personal narratives.

In this episode, I share my engaging conversation with photographer, curator, and publisher Michael Rababy about his upcoming book, “CASINOLAND, Tired of Winning.” Set to release on November 5, 2024, in independent bookstores and on Amazon. This work which is the result of a 30-year personal photo project, offers a unique and witty visual perspective on American casino culture. The Concept Rababy explains, “The concept of the book is to contrast casino commercials that promise you the world versus the visual reality that I translate when I’m at these locations all over America. It’s not just Vegas but Atlantic City, Reno, and basically any casino area I’ve stumbled across in the last 30 years.” “CASINOLAND: Tired of Winning” presents a satirical yet poignant look at the casino industry. Rababy juxtaposes cheap, gimmicky marketing slogans with real-life images, creating a stark contrast between promise and reality. For instance, one spread pairs the phrase “You’re Going to Need a Bigger Wallet” with a photo of a overwhelmed man managing four young children in a casino parking lot. A Visual Journey The book spans 160 pages, featuring images from Rababy’s 30-year archive. It offers a fresh take on consumerism and gambling culture across the United States, presenting a glitzy yet gritty universe of American casinos. The Publishing Process As an experienced publisher, Rababy shared insights into working with authors, designers, and promoting visually rich books. He’s planning an upcoming exhibit of selected photos from “CASINOLAND,” which will include high-quality images and an AI-generated casino ad. Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing We discussed the pros and cons of self-publishing versus traditional publishing, a topic particularly relevant as Street Photography Magazine prepares to publish its first book. Rababy’s plans for international distribution and exhibitions in Asia highlight the complexities of book promotion and distribution. Long-Term Projects Rababy also touched on the challenges of crafting long-term projects like “CASINOLAND” and “America Bachelor,” offering valuable insights into the creative process. Artistic Influences and Commitment to Quality Inspired by legends like Dorothea Lange and Ansel Adams, Rababy emphasizes the importance of capturing fine details in person. He’s committed to producing high-quality fine art prints, learning from experienced printers, and using premium materials. Early Access and Bonus Content While “CASINOLAND: Tired of Winning” won’t be widely available until November 5, readers can purchase a copy now from Michael’s website. These early copies will be signed by the author and include a bonus print. Links from the show Michael’s Website CASINOLAND:Tired of Winning on Michael’s website

Johan Jehlbo, an award-winning Swedish photographer renowned for his flash techniques and the book "Stranger Than Fiction," shares his journey through street photography. He discusses his passion for capturing rural markets in Sweden and the evolution of his artistic style. Johan explores the ethical dilemmas of photographing strangers and the significance of candid moments, emphasizing the joy of spontaneity. He also reflects on the collaborative spirit within the Full Frontal Flash collective and the technical nuances of using flash to enhance storytelling.

Bal Bhatla, aka Mr. Whisper, is a London-based commercial photographer renowned for his stunning nighttime street photography, blending art with brand collaborations. He shares his creative journey from a digital director to a sought-after photographer and discusses the nuances of capturing candid moments under low light. Bal provides practical tips on camera settings and the importance of using natural light. He also delves into balancing artistic integrity with commercial work and the cultural significance of his newly released book, "London After Dark."

Karlynne Wintels, a talented photographer from the Netherlands, shares her inspiring journey from corporate life to passionate photography. She explores the evolution of her craft in Singapore, emphasizing the beauty of candid, everyday moments. Karlynne discusses the transformative impact of photography workshops and her shift from color to monochrome styles. She also touches on the complexities of capturing personal stories while navigating privacy concerns in family photography, all while reflecting on her upcoming homecoming.

Today on the Street Photography Magazine podcast, we have a fascinating guest who I met in an unusual way – Lynne McPeake, a retired graphic designer and photographer from the Peak District in the UK. I first crossed paths with Lynne during my travels to Iceland, the Faroe Islands, and the Scottish Shetland Islands early this summer. It was in Shetland – inspired by the TV show “Shetland” – that I stumbled upon the Shetland Museum & Archives in the town of Lerwick showcasing Lynne’s 1971 documentary-style photography of dock workers. Her work was so compelling, it led to our conversation that you will hear on this episode. Lynne’s journey into photography started with a simple Kodak Brownie camera she received at age eleven. From there, she honed a unique artistic approach by blending her love for drawing and photography. She’s experimented with movement and multiple exposures, bringing a dynamic edge and painterly style to her photos. During the Covid pandemic, Lynne found herself diving into old black and white negatives, which caught the attention of her friend Colin Smith and photographer who showed the work to the Family History Society in Shetland. This sparked the idea for an exhibition featuring Lynne’s work about local subjects. With support from Smith, and local fine-art printer Lynne creates a display of 18 framed images for her one-woman exhibit at the museum. As a result of the exhibition Lynne has reconnected with subjects from her old photos, like a 71-year-old former dock worker reminiscing about his crane-operating days. Throughout our chat, Lynne shares her artistic journey, touching on everything from her time in art college to her recent experiments with intentional camera movement (ICM) and an inspiring online course with photographer Charlotte Bellamy. She’s got some exciting projects lined up, including an exhibition in Derbyshire titled “A Different Point of View,” where her photos will be showcased alongside a friend’s paintings. Lynne believes in the power of drawing to enhance observational skills, which translates beautifully into her street photography. Lynne’s insights and experiences demonstrate that old work never dies. Give the show a listen to learn from her passion and creativity. A selection of Lynne’s work Links from the show Lynne’s Instagram Shetland Museum & Archives

Our guest this week is John M. Simpson the featured photographer in the of August 2024 issue of Street Photography Magazine, who brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to street photography. A retired history professor and former military man, John’s journey into photojournalism began with a simple thought: “I can do a better job.” This led him down a path that included multiple embedments as a photojournalist in Iraq and Afghanistan during intense periods of conflict. John’s approach to photography is deeply personal and driven by a desire to tell important stories. His current focus is on documenting the lives of homeless individuals in Olympia, Washington. What sets John apart is his commitment to spending time with his subjects, getting to know them, and approaching his work with genuine respect and compassion. In our conversation, John shares insights from his experiences as an embedded photojournalist and how that informs his current work. He emphasizes the importance of building trust, getting close to subjects, and letting photographs come to him rather than actively hunting for shots. John’s work isn’t just about capturing images – it’s about shedding light on important social issues and giving a voice to those who are often marginalized. His passion for his subjects and his craft comes through clearly in our discussion. Whether you’re interested in street photography, photojournalism, or simply hearing from someone with a unique life story, I think you’ll find our conversation with John engaging and thought-provoking. Give the podcast a listen – I’m sure you’ll come away inspired by John’s dedication and perspective. Links from the show John’s work on Social Documentary Network

Our guest today is Brooklyn native, Gretchen Grace, a fascinating street photographer whose journey in photography began with a high school class that sparked her passion. since then she’s been capturing the street scenes of New York City for decades. Gretchen recently published a book called “Two Way Street” that showcases her unique vision. It’s an interesting mix of her classic black and white film work from the ’90s and early 2000s, alongside more recent color abstractions she’s been working on recently. This blend gives us a peek into how her style and perspective have evolved over time. What I really like about Gretchen is her ability to find those “moments of the everyday” – those little slices of life that might seem ordinary at first glance, but become something special upon looking deeper. She has a knack for spotting those in-between moments that tell a story all their own. Gretchen’s background in design has influenced her photographic eye, especially in her more recent abstract work. She describes these pieces as “photographic paintings.” Throughout our chat, Gretchen’s love for New York City and its endless parade of characters and moments is obvious. Whether she’s wandering familiar streets or exploring new corners of the city, her enthusiasm for capturing the essence of urban life is infectious. She continues to push the boundaries of her art, experimenting with new techniques and emphasizing human connection in seizing the “indecisive moments” that define her work. So join us as we explore the world streets of New York through Gretchen Grace’s eyes. Links from the show Gretchen’s Website Instagram Two Way Street

Russell Banks, the featured photographer in the July 2024 issue of Street Photography Magazine, is a street photographer known for documenting life aboard cruise ships. His visual narratives about passengers and crew have allowed him to carve out a unique niche. Russell’s interest in photography began in childhood when capturing moments on film sparked a lifelong passion. This early fascination guided him through an education that started with an English major and evolved into photojournalism, allowing him to explore the combination of narrative and imagery. At the University of Texas in Austin, he had the opportunity to study under Garry Winogrand, who greatly influenced his personal style and approach, which is evident in his work today. Before presenting his work to the market, Russell attended esteemed portfolio review events like FotoFest in Houston. The feedback he received from publishers and photo editors confirmed the potential of his cruise ship project. So, he began showcasing his work to publications and galleries. His hard work resulted in a solo exhibit in Golden, Colorado, another at the Viewpoint Photographic Gallery in Sacramento, California, and a feature story in Street Photography Magazine. Russell also discusses the process of preparing his work for these exhibits, a task that requires meticulous attention to detail, from printing large-format images to handling shipping logistics – a process that is not inexpensive. As my business mentor once said years ago, “don’t wait for the phone to ring,” that’s a motto that Russell applies to promoting his own photography. He adeptly researches potential exhibition venues, identifies key contacts at publications, crafts personalized pitches, and maintains an active online presence. He approaches the business side of photography with the same dedication as his art. Segments 01:25 Early Photography JourneyExplore Russell’s early days with a camera, from childhood snapshots to his transition into more serious photography during his college years. Discover how his interest in literature and music influenced his path to street photography. 04:03 Influence of Gary WinograndDelve into Russell’s experience studying under Garry Winogrand at the University of Texas. Learn about the impactful teaching style of Winogrand and how it shaped Russell’s approach to photography. 06:40 Venturing into Cruise Ship PhotographyFollow Russell’s journey into using street photography techniques on cruise ships. Explore the challenges and unique opportunities of capturing moments in the quirky environment of a cruise ship. 12:12 Developing a PortfolioDiscover how Russell evolved from capturing images to curating a portfolio of his cruise ship photography. Learn about his process of selecting and presenting his work for exhibitions and reviews. 18:08 FotoFest ExperienceJoin Russell on his transformative experience at FotoFest in Houston. Explore the valuable feedback and insights he gained from industry experts and how it accelerated his artistic progression. 25:15 Preparation and PresentationMeticulous preparation and presentation techniques Russell employed for FotoFest. Learn about the importance of being well-prepared and organized when showcasing your work to reviewers. 59:00 Preparing for Solo ExhibitionsRussell Banks shares his experience developing a portfolio and entering exhibitions, leading up to his decision to pursue solo shows. He discusses the process of refining his work, submitting to various exhibitions, and finally landing opportunities for solo exhibitions. 01:00:03 Navigating the Logistics of ExhibitingRussell delves into the practical aspects of preparing and shipping prints for exhibitions. He shares insights on matting, packaging, and shipping large prints, highlighting the challenges and considerations involved in showcasing artwork in different venues. Links from the show Russell’s Website Floating World – Street Photography Magazine article by Russell Instagram

Kenneth Wajda, a commercial and editorial photographer from Colorado, enjoys making street portraits in his spare time. His outgoing and friendly nature helps him approach strangers for permission to take their portraits. His secret weapon? A classic Rolleiflex TLR camera, which he describes as the perfect icebreaker. Kenneth has written an article about his experience with the Rolleiflex camera for Street Photography Magazine, set to appear in the June 2024 issue on Sunday, June 23. In today’s discussion, Kenneth shares his approach to street portraiture using the Rolleiflex and Ilford HP 5 film, his settings for different lighting conditions, and his preference for shooting in sunlight. He stresses the importance of engaging with people on the street, sharing experiences from various locations like flea markets and small towns. A key insight from our conversation is Kenneth’s mantra, “The muse exists, but she has to find you working.” This means that inspiration will come when you start working. Kenneth, also involved in movie production, uses a copy stand and a Nikon DSLR to photograph negatives for digital use, finding this method more effective than dedicated scanners. Kenneth recently founded the Rolleiflexers Collective to showcase the work of photographers documenting street life with the Rolleiflex camera. The group aims to share their work and inspire each other. He strongly believes in the value of meetups, events, and competitions as platforms for photographers to showcase their work and build community. Kenneth also emphasizes the importance of printing your work and finding ways to publish it, even if it means self-publishing through a zine or book. Quick crappy snapshot by Bob Patterson Links from the show Kenneth’s Website Rolleiflexers Collective Kenneth’s Street Photos