I didn’t know that street photography existed. As in, I didn’t know it’s an official genre of photography. All I knew back then was that I would stare so hard at people and sights I saw along the way anywhere I was. In the jeepney. The bus. While walking around or while eating alone at McDonald’s or any food place on my way home.
I like walking alone. In broad daylight, yes. In darkness, not so much. My lengthy travel time everyday to and from work back when I was still working in corporate was probably the driving force behind my street photography attempts.
Whenever I’d see a scene on the road that’s interesting to me, I’d feel a strong urge to capture that specific moment. It didn’t even matter if it’s a perfect shot as I wanted a raw and imperfect capture.
Sometimes, I get weird stares from people around me. I’m very careful and discreet all the time, because sadly, pickpockets or snatchers can be everywhere. But as I progress with this hobby, I’m becoming more and more comfortable and confident in capturing scenes when I’m out and about.
A lot of photographers have defined street photography. Truth be told, I can’t/don’t call myself a photographer. I’m not an expert or a pro. I’m a snapshooter. But my street photos aren’t just random snapshots. I capture them because I see a story that’s waiting to be told.
I don’t know how many people are interested in street photography. A lot would always appreciate the beauty of picture-perfect sceneries. It’s difficult not to. But for me, I try to see the beauty in all things from all angles. In whatever frame.
Most of the time, I’m not technical with my street photos. One photo may be a little blurry or dark but when it captures a great story, it’s enough for me to appreciate it.
Street photography, for me, is capturing scenes of everyday life that most people probably don’t notice or appreciate right away. It’s about using the world as your frame and your backdrop. It’s about finding beauty everywhere and telling and discovering untold stories.
You don’t need a street all the time. You just need to stop, look, walk, and yes listen, sometimes wait for the right time and be in the moment.
Street photography can be scary and dirty. Although it doesn’t have to be, sometimes it is. Street photography captures emotions, connections, and most importantly life and the beauty of being alive.
