What 1000 Street Portraits Taught me About Humanity
The wonderful thing about doing street portrait photography, is you begin to really mesh with humanity. You hear stories, see insecurities, watch confidence grow and connect to your fellow human. I've shot over a 1000 street portraits and in this article I'm sharing what I've learned the most, and why that lesson means it's important for you to continue doing the work yourself.
Street Portraits Around The World
I've had the pleasure of doing street portraits in many countries and cultures across the world. Although my portfolio highlights the diversity of humanity, I've come to believe that deep beneath the surface, all of us are far more alike than we think.
The biggest thing we, humans, have in common is we want to be seen. We want a degree of validation, a sense of acceptance and the acknowledgement that the way we're showing up in the world is perfectly fine.
Some people want it solely from their family, while others seek it on a larger scale; comedians, actors, singers et al. But, in reality most of us sit in between. We don't go out of our way for people to see us, but it feels good and comforting when they do.
When you choose a person out of thousands of people on the street to make their street portrait, you're directly saying to them "hey, I see you". That's a powerful thing to say to a person, and whether they like the photograph or not, knowing you saw them can last with them for days, weeks, month or even years.
Oddly, I think it's important now more than ever to lift people up. I say oddly, because it feels we live in a time where it's never been easier for people to see you, what with the introduction of social media and the fact we all have access to some form of a camera.
But, that's just internet bullshit. 2D narcissism which makes many feel inadequate if they're not creating the same self image as those with millions of views and fans. Where people's self esteem is built on the weak foundations of strangers in another part of the world tapping a like.
A street portrait, although brief, is a deep human connection. When you speak to a subject, they can hear you, see you, and whether it's a handshake, a hug or a first bump they can feel you. They know that when you say "I see you" that you mean it.
All of this type of human interaction is essential for your wellbeing and self esteem. If you make a portrait they like then it's simply a cherry on an already scrumptious cake.
This is why I believe every photographer should feel inspired to venture into street portraiture. You're not just capturing images; you're creating moments of genuine human connection in a world that desperately needs more of them.
If there was ever a reason to overcome your anxiety of approaching strangers for street portraits, this is it. Because every doubt or concern you have is belittled by what you’re able to give another person thanks to your skills.
So don't let fear hold you back from this beautiful practice. Every time you overcome that initial nervousness and reach out to another human being, you're not just improving as a photographer – you're making the world a little kinder, a little more connected, and a little more human.
You're giving someone the gift of being truly noticed and ensuring they feel seen, which is one of the most beautiful things you can do for another human.
Want your work featured on Them Frames? Pitch us.
