When I started street photography, one of the first website I stumbled upon was In-Public. I was blown away by the work of all the street photographers there and curious to see how they captured the beauty and irony of everyday life.
One of the photographers whose work I admired was Richard Bram. I loved his classic black and white work, and was fascinated to read a feature he wrote for Street Reverb Magazine about his transition into color (something I have recently experienced as well). It was also great to see his insights and stories behind his work in “In-Sight” – a documentary on street photography and In-Public members by Nick Turpin.
The interview is very long (1 hour 30 minutes) and Richard apologies in advance for his squeaky microphone. However for anyone who wants to get incredibly insightful information about street photography I highly recommend you watch it. We talk about Richard’s background in politics and photography, his transition from b&w to color, as well as street photographers who influenced him.
Also one of the favorite parts I appreciate is when he gives advice to aspiring street photographers.
Richard Bram’s Advice for Aspiring Street Photographers
- Don’t be easily satisfied
- Pay less attention to people who like your work, and more attention to people who offer you harder critiques
- Become visually literate. Go to the library, take a course on art history (not just photography history). Learn about what makes a composition. Figure out why you don’t like the work of others, and why you think that others like it. Go to the 779 section at the library for photo books and devour them.
- Look at pictures all the time, and internalize them.
- Read a lot photo books, art books, literature, politics, science.
- Get to know sculptors, actors, writers – because they will give you great advice on your photography. Don’t just live in the photography ghetto.
- Great photographers know a lot more than photography.
Richard Bram Black & White Portfolio:
Richard Bram Color Portfolio
Watch “In-Sight” (Richard is featured photographing the streets of NYC)
Follow Richard Bram
Which of Richard’s photos touch or inspire you the most? Leave your comments, critique, and feedback in the comments below and show him some love!
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