Street photography is a captivating genre that appeals to both beginner and seasoned photographers alike. All you really need is a camera and an interest in capturing life as it unfolds on the streets. However, within this broad category, there are several distinct subgenres. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of street photography.
What Is Street Photography?
Street photography is generally defined as capturing everyday moments in public spaces. This can range from showcasing ordinary life to highlighting moments of social significance, or simply capturing aesthetically pleasing scenes that offer a glimpse into human behavior. The approach, theme, and focus of your photos can influence which subgenre of street photography you lean toward.
The umbrella definition remains constant, but different techniques and focuses give rise to several subgenres, each offering unique perspectives.
Types of Street Photography
- Documentary Street Photography
Documentary street photography aims to capture the essence of everyday life, often focusing on significant events, social issues, or unique urban landscapes. This style preserves the moments and stories of our time, either as a visual record or as commentary on societal changes. It may also highlight unnoticed or underappreciated aspects of a city or community.
- Candid Street Photography
Candid street photography emphasizes spontaneous, unposed moments that reflect life as it happens. There’s little to no interaction with the subject, which makes this style more about observation than involvement. Photographers often capture fleeting moments that evoke emotions or tell a story, which can be tied together by themes like color, shape, or subject matter over a series of images.
- Urban Landscape Photography
Unlike more fast-paced types of street photography, urban landscape photography allows for a more relaxed approach. Here, the focus is on capturing the architecture, streetscapes, and city environments. Long exposures are often used to bring out details and add depth to the image. The goal is to showcase the beauty of the built environment, whether through wide-angle shots or unique perspectives.
- Street Portrait Photography
Street portraiture blends elements of candid photography with the art of posing. Photographers engage directly with their subjects, often asking them to pose in their natural environment. The challenge here is to capture genuine expressions while also maintaining an artistic approach that complements the setting. It’s about capturing the character of individuals in the context of their surroundings.
- Abstract Street Photography
Abstract street photography takes a creative approach, focusing on shapes, colors, and patterns found in the street. Rather than photographing people or traditional scenes, this style aims to make art out of the urban environment. The goal is to highlight visual elements that might otherwise go unnoticed, turning the mundane into something striking and unique.
- Street Fashion Photography
Street fashion photography is centered around clothing and style. This can either involve shooting models in the street, or capturing the fashion sense of everyday people. Whether the focus is on candid street style or posed fashion shots, this subgenre combines the vibrancy of city life with the art of fashion. It’s about telling a story through clothing, expression, and the surrounding environment.
Which Type of Street Photography Appeals to You?
Each of these subgenres offers a unique lens through which to view the world. Whether you’re drawn to capturing raw moments, architectural beauty, or fashion, street photography allows for endless creativity and storytelling. What type of street photography do you enjoy the most? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
