Taking Inspiration from Strangers

When I started photography 4 years ago, I had a basic point-and-shoot camera that I brought everywhere. I took photos of trees, interesting cloud formations, even cats that are lounging on small patches of sunshine. I was also fascinated with buildings that have intricately-patterned arches, carved doors, and high ceilings. Taking photos of strangers, though, is more exciting. The thought of capturing a fleeting moment in a photo that can last a long time makes it more special.
Taking photos of ordinary people, for most photographers, is more gratifying because situations are neither staged nor forced. Henri Cartier-Bresson, considered to be the father of photojournalism said that “[…] a photograph could fix eternity in an instant.” His photos, like those of Robert Doisneau’s and Vivian Maier’s, are perfect samples of candid street photography. Theirs are photos that include spontaneous portraits without having any influence on the scene at all.
Street photographers can find subjects everywhere. The streets are filled with moments waiting to be captured. One’s timing, sensitivity, and agility are important to capture moments that would’ve been lost forever. Take your cue from these photos that inspire me (and hopefully, you) to become more observant in my daily strolls.

 

 

This post was written by: Cadence Wu