Street Photography Magazine

Penelope James, a Dallas-based fundraiser and street photographer, shares her captivating journey from novice to unique artist. She discusses how her love for urban spontaneity evolved through her experiences in London and Paris. Her self-portrait project during the pandemic merged surreal cloud photography with personal expression, exploring authenticity in her art. Penelope reflects on the creative process, emphasizing the emotional connections she forms through her lens and the joys and challenges of her artistic evolution.

In Street Photography Magazine, we publish many personal projects and discuss them with photographers on the podcast. In this episode, I had an opportunity to speak with street photographer Valérie and writer (and photographer) Gina Williams about their collaboration on one of the most creative projects I’ve seen in a long time. Gina, a very talented writer, photographer, and artist, attended one of Valérie’s Paris workshops several years ago where they became friends. Several times over the years, they discussed a collaboration where Gina would create fictional vignettes inspired by subjects in a selection of Valérie’s street photos. Last year, they made it a reality. Valérie gave Gina access to her archive to choose photos that resonated with her. That in and of itself was a challenge because Valérie has a huge archive of very powerful street images. Some stories came to her instantly while others marinated in the back of her mind, only to be revealed while she was gardening or taking a walk. The result is an ebook titled Street Stories. It’s a collection of about 50 of Valérie’s street photos. Each photo with its vignette is depicted in a short chapter. The chapter opens with a title, assigned by Gina, on its own page followed by the photo on another with the page on the next page. This format can get very expensive in a printed book but works well in an ebook. We’ve reproduced one of my favorite stories from the book in the show notes of this episode to give you an example of what Gina and Valérie created. The title is Resistance. This type of book is best consumed a few chapters at a time rather than in long sittings. I imported my copy of the book into the Kindle app on my iPad. It gives me the ability to move between pages by sliding the screen right to left just like any book on the app. That way, I can glide through the images and titles and stop on whatever catches my attention. Each time, I’ve come away with new inspiration. Valérie’s strong images combined with Gina’s imagination and mastery of the language is a magical combination. Street Stories costs only $12.00, and Valérie has offered our listeners a $2.00 discount (so it’s only 10 bucks) by using the code SPM on checkout. In the meantime, give the podcast a listen. I know you’ll be inspired by their story. Here’s a sample chapter from Street Stories RESISTANCE I can hear their voices and feel their spirits in the wind when I visit this place. The horror. Fear. Desperation. Determination. Bravery. My father was on this beach in the summer of 1944. A resistance fighter, he guided the Americans to a river crossing, then helped stand guard over German prisoners as they cleared the beach of obstacles and brutal tangles of barbed wire. He didn’t talk much about it after the war—none of them did. But I can feel their presence here. Every gust of wind feels like youth leaving the body and I want to push it back like a rescue breath, return to them what they lost. Places like this hold memories forever. Now, the message of peace is peace itself. Lovers strolling arm-in-arm. Tourists sipping cocktails. Children splashing about and making castles in the once dangerous sand. No matter the weather, I let it chill me. I never cover my head or button my coat. I want to feel the cold air in my bones until it hurts. I scoop up a bit of soft sand and let it fall through my fingers, each grain a reminder of someone who sacrificed everything for the freedom I now enjoy. And then I look to the horizon, watch the storm clouds swirl in the distance, and offer a humble prayer of gratitude and remembrance. Links from the show Street Stories Download Use Discount code: SPM Valérie’s Website Gina’s Primary Website Gina’s Photography and Art Website Valerie’s Instagram Gina’s Instagram

Gerald Marie-Nelly, affectionately known as Mister Geez, is the featured photographer in the March 2024 issue of Street Photography Magazine. During our conversation in this episode he invites us into his world of visual storytelling. Mister Geez’s photographic journey is a combination of personal growth and artistic discovery. His transition from the sun-kissed shores of Martinique to the bustling streets of London is a story that resonates with anyone who has ever dared to dream beyond their horizon. Gerard opens up about finding solace in photography after the loss of his mother. It is a reminder of the healing power of art. His book “Inner Child Playground” is more than just a collection of images; it’s an invitation to view London through the fresh eyes of a child. Street Photography Magazine subscribers can an excerpt of his book in the December 2023 issue. What sets Mister Geez apart is not just his exceptional eye for detail but his commitment to community. He shares his craft by teaching photography to the homeless, helping them find their own voice through the language of imagery. Gerard also pays homage to the greats who have shaped his vision. He expresses admiration for documentary photography icons like Sebastião Salgado and Eugene Smith, whose works have influenced his approach to capturing reality. He dives deep into the meticulous process of curating a body of work for publication. Selecting and sequencing photos is a delicate dance that can make or break a narrative. During our conversation Gerard discusses his technique of using inexpensive prints to sort, compare and sequence photos for publication. Our conversation underscores the tangible joy of physical prints, the intricacies of layout design, and the struggle with technical dilemmas like color casts in printing. Gerard’s story is a reminder of the tactile relationship between photographer and photograph, in an age dominated by digital. Links from the show Mr Geez Website Instagram YouTube

Explore the unique blend of math, art, and street photography with Marco Campi, capturing emotion through numbers. From documenting Venice's flood issues to pandemic experiences in Milan, his work challenges us to find beauty in complexity.

In this episode of the Street Photography Magazine podcast, photographer the featured photographer in the February 2024 issue of Street Photography Magazine, discussed his 30-year exploration of street photography shooting on Mass Avenue in Boston and his shift from traditional photography to using a mobile phone. He emphasized the importance of feedback and critique in the photographic process, which was the inspiration to create The Crit House, his YouTube channel dedicated to providing creative guidance and feedback to photographers. Jeff reflects on the challenges and benefits of receiving constructive criticism and the value of having a trusted community for sharing work and feedback. Additionally, he shares insights into lessons from his career in broadcasting and his unique experiences with street and landscape photography using an iPhone, including nighttime shoots and long exposures to capture the moon’s motion. Larson also recounts the influence of critiques on his work, noting his experience exhibiting in the Smith Gallery in Johnson City, Texas. Exploring genres beyond street photography, Larson detailes his landscape project and encounters with wildlife during early morning shoots. Jeff encourages listeners to engage with his content available on YouTube, Instagram, and his personal website, and his published book, Sonder which is a compilation of his street photography over the past 30 years. Links from the Show The Crit House – Jeff’s YouTube Channel Jeff’s Website Sonder – Jeff’s Book Instagram

Show Notes: Episode 170 – “The Dublin Street Photography Festival Journey” Today, we have the founders of the Dublin Street Photography Festival, Paul Murray and Des Byrne, who are here to share their journey and insights into how their local street photography group has evolved into an international festival. Main Themes: Establishing the Festival: Paul’s expertise in branding and design played a crucial role in attracting sponsors and securing venues. The festival has become a significant event, drawing international photographers and retailers. Beginner’s Adaptation: Our guests discuss the learning curve for newcomers to street photography and the creative growth that comes with mastering this art form. Reflections and Digital Nuances: They touch on the art of capturing reflection shots and discuss the intricacies of digital photography in the context of street photography. Building Community: Des talks about creating an inclusive Facebook group that welcomes international workers and promotes street photography. The community extends to partnerships with local entities like the Dublin Camera Club. Global Camaraderie: Paul and Des emphasize the sense of unity among the international photography community and their excitement for upcoming features, such as a retrospective of Jill Freedman’s work at the festival. Travel Tales: The pair recount their adventures at photography festivals in Porto, Lisbon, and others, offering a glimpse into the diverse festival landscape. Light Challenges: They discuss the technical and artistic challenges of shooting in different lighting conditions, particularly highlighting the unique light of Dublin throughout the seasons. Grafton Street’s Winter Sunlight: A love letter to Dublin’s winter sunlight on Grafton Street, along with tips on how to capture distinctive images in this enchanting environment. Links from the show Dublin Street Photography Festival Website Des Byrne Instagram Paul Murray Website Paul Murray Instagram

Photos by Fan Ho Welcome to a special episode of the Street Photography Magazine podcast! We’re thrilled to share an exciting announcement that’s been in the works and is now ready to be unveiled to members of our community of passionate street photographers. Extending to The Print World with a Photo Book About Your Favorite Street Photography Places New Chapter: After years of digital publication, Street Photography Magazine is venturing into the tangible world with a physical book, celebrating the the places you love to shoot. Call for Submissions: Hosts Bob Patterson and Ashley Riffo invite street photographers to submit their work for this landmark project. This isn’t just any call for photos; it’s a call for images of places that hold a special place in the photographers’ hearts. Specificity Over Generalization: The focus is narrow, personal, and intimate. We’re not looking for the sprawling cityscapes or famous landmarks. We want those stories you tell in nooks and crannies that you return to time and time again, those specific locations that have become a part of your visual journey. Inspiration from a Master: The work of Fan Ho, who captured Hong Kong in the 50s and 60s, serves as a perfect example for this project. His repeated visits to the Hong Kong Central Market allowed him to tell deeper, more nuanced stories through his lens—a practice we encourage in our community. Capturing Change and Comfort: By revisiting familiar places, photographers can explore how their special spot evolves over time, becoming more attuned to the subtleties of light, atmosphere, and life that unfold there. Submission Details: Photographers have until February 15th to submit photos, complete with unique titles and the stories behind them. Patience is appreciated, as curating a book is a delicate and time-consuming process. Looking Forward: There’s a palpable sense of excitement as Bob and Ashley anticipate the diverse and profound collection of images that will be submitted, each with its own narrative and emotional resonance. Stay tuned for updates on this project, and remember to visit Street Photography Magazine’s website for the submission form and additional details. Good luck to all our street photographers out there, and we can’t wait to see the places that have captured your hearts and lenses. Until next time, keep making stories that are waiting to be told, on the streets you love. A Selection of Fan Ho’s Photos at the Hong Kong Central Market Links from the show Book Submission Form

Delve into the serene world of fine art street photographer Cyrille Druart and his 'Plein Silence' series capturing pandemic stillness. Explore his methodical shooting approach, structured compositions, and stylistic adaptations. Discover his post-processing techniques and reflections on social media's impact on art.

In this episode, the spotlight shines on Mark Schumann, a retired photographer whose journey behind the lens has been as varied as it has been profound. From the awe-inspiring wilderness of Alaska to the gritty streets where the homeless crisis unfolds, Schumann’s camera has captured narratives that beg for attention. Mark’s story begins in ninth grade, a testament to the early onset of his passion. What unfolds is a career that not only brings accolades but also highlights significant social issues. His work on the US homeless crisis, which gained recognition through a newspaper article, delves deep into the ethical quandaries photographers face when capturing images of the vulnerable. Schumann’s insights provide a sobering reflection on the social challenges that persist with homelessness and the role of photographers in that space. Schumann recounts his encounters with Alaskan bears, a subject matter that demands respect and a keen eye for detail. The importance of capturing the eyes to convey expression is a profound takeaway from his experiences. It’s not just about the danger or the thrill, but about understanding and portraying the silent narratives of these majestic creatures. For those eager to dive deeper into Mark’s ’s work, his website, Schumannphoto.com, stands as a gateway to his collections. Here, admirers can order his book and immerse themselves in the visual stories he’s so expertly woven. His book is more than just a compilation of photographs; it’s an invitation to explore diverse landscapes and social issues through his perspective. Mark’s approachability extends to his social media presence, where he actively engages with his audience. He shares the behind-the-scenes process of managing book distribution, a role that sees him in the mailroom ensuring that his stories reach those eager to experience them. The podcast also reveals Schumann’s encouragement for feedback and reviews, underlining his commitment to community and dialogue. Links from the show Mark’s Website Mark’s book: Homeless in a Land of Plenty Instagram Facebook

Sureita Hockley, is the featured photographer in the December 2023 issue of Street Photography Magazine. She is a passionate street portrait photographer based in Wales, who has been capturing the world and its inhabitants for over a decade. With a background in dance, sales, and finance, Sureita found her true calling in photography in 2009. Her journey began in the streets of New York City, where she immersed herself in the world of photography. She honed her technical skills and artistic sensibilities by attending courses at the International Center of Photography (ICP) and exploring the vibrant scenes of the city. One of the defining features of Sureita’s work is her desire to engage with her subjects on a deep level. She believes in breaking barriers and making personal connections with the people she photographs. Overcoming her initial aversion to approaching strangers, she learned to gracefully handle rejection and persisted in capturing intimate and revealing portraits of people from all walks of life. Sureita’s portfolio showcases her talent for capturing moments of connection and humanity. Her work predominantly focuses on street portraits, but she is not limited to one genre. Always challenging herself, she continually pushes the boundaries of her photography, exploring landscapes, documentary projects, and more. Aside from her artistic pursuits, Sureita is actively involved in women’s photography groups. She served as a board member of Professional Women Photographers in New York, contributing to the development of the membership, exhibitions, and the empowerment of women photographers. Whether she’s navigating the bustling streets of New York City, capturing the tranquil landscapes of Wales, or immersing herself in the cultural richness of different countries, Sureita embraces photographic opportunities with enthusiasm and dedication. Links from the show Sureita’s Instagram Sureita’s Facebook