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I’m probably the most passionate street photographers in the world. Why? Because street photography ain’t about just making photos. It’s about making meaning in your personal life.

Street photography is a way of life.

Some thoughts:

1. Whenever you shoot, talk to strangers in the street. Talk to folks that interest you. Give lots of fist bumps. Feel good about yourself and make others feel good about themselves.
2. Look at great street photographers: I only find inspiration in the master street photographers, like Henri Cartier-Bresson, Josef Koudelka, and Richard Avedon. They are my heroes. I want to mimic and emulate their styles. Because their work is so great, it motivated me to take my work to the next level.
3. Don’t let great photographers discourage you: Consider that you want to eventually kill your master. First copy the master you love, and then after a few years, figure out when you want to cut the umbilical chord. For example, I think Henri Cartier-Bresson is boring now. I’m trying to get onto Josef Koudelka level.
4. Have fun: Passion is about playing and having fun. A child is passionate about painting. Not to get likes on Facebook or Instagram. But to follow their curiosity and just have fun.
5. Disconnect from social media: I’m so much more passionate about photography once I cut social media from my diet. Kind of how I got a 6 pack after cutting sugar, junk food, and dessert from my diet. Do a long “social media fast” for 1 month. Uninstall Instagram, Facebook from your phone for 1 month.
6. Make your own photography blog: 1and1.Com and WordPress.org. Only post stuff to your own blog. You’ll have more freedom, and feel like you’re building your own empire.
7. Don’t shoot to impress others; only seek to impress yourself.

You got this.

BE STRONG,
ERIC

STREET PHOTOGRAPHY MANUAL BY ERIC KIM