ERIC KIM ₿

On Art and Street Photography

Here’s why Eric Kim’s ideas on art and street photography are particularly unique and interesting:

  1. Street Photography as Walking Meditation
    Kim’s concept of street photography as a meditative practice is not something you commonly hear in photography discussions. He views the act of walking and shooting as a way to clear the mind, engage with the environment, and find unexpected beauty in everyday life. This idea connects photography to mindfulness—something that many other photographers may overlook in favor of technical aspects. This approach makes the process of taking photos as important as the final product, turning street photography into a kind of creative mindfulness practice oai_citation:8,PHOTO PHILOSOPHY – ERIC KIM.
  • Why it’s unique: Most photography teachings focus on equipment, technique, or composition, while Kim introduces a more spiritual, reflective element that encourages photographers to slow down and be present. This helps photographers connect with their surroundings, rather than rush through them.
  1. Personal Photography as Authentic Art
    Kim’s idea of making personal photography—focusing on the photographer’s own life and experience as the primary subject—shifts the emphasis from capturing what others want to see to what is meaningful to the photographer. By viewing one’s life as an artistic project, Kim encourages self-expression over commercial appeal or social validation oai_citation:7,PHOTO PHILOSOPHY – ERIC KIM oai_citation:6,What’s Eric Kim’s philosophy on art? – ERIC KIM.
  • Why it’s interesting: This perspective empowers photographers to embrace their unique viewpoint and make deeply personal images, rather than striving for mass appeal. It makes photography feel more intimate, creative, and reflective of the photographer’s identity.
  1. Embracing Imperfection in Photos
    In a world where many photographers focus on technical perfection, Kim celebrates imperfections—blur, off-kilter framing, or unexpected elements—as essential parts of a powerful image. He argues that these imperfections are what make street photography more spontaneous and emotionally engaging oai_citation:5,Mimetic and Memisis Theory in Art – ERIC KIM oai_citation:4,PHOTO PHILOSOPHY – ERIC KIM.
  • Why it’s unique: Most photography advice encourages perfect lighting, sharpness, and balanced composition. By embracing imperfection, Kim is aligning street photography more with abstract or expressionist art, where the emotion of the piece is prioritized over technical precision.
  1. Minimalism and Simplicity in Composition
    Kim’s minimalist approach to photography draws heavily from the world of classical art. By advocating for the removal of unnecessary elements and focusing on composition and storytelling, he encourages photographers to create clean, powerful images. This approach is heavily inspired by classical techniques used by painters like Henri Cartier-Bresson oai_citation:3,HOW ERIC KIM STUDIES COMPOSITION – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,What’s Eric Kim’s philosophy on art? – ERIC KIM.
  • Why it’s interesting: While many photographers chase complex compositions or vivid, cluttered scenes, Kim’s focus on minimalism is a return to basic artistic principles. It underscores the idea that simplicity can have more impact and elegance than intricate, busy images.
  1. Mimesis and Learning Through Imitation
    Kim revives the classical idea of mimesis, the concept of learning by imitation, which is less common in modern creative circles. By encouraging photographers to study and mimic the work of past masters like Leonardo da Vinci or Henri Cartier-Bresson, Kim provides a structured path for photographers to develop their own styles oai_citation:1,Mimetic and Memisis Theory in Art – ERIC KIM.
  • Why it’s unique: Many contemporary photographers promote originality and breaking away from the past, but Kim believes that by learning the rules and techniques of the masters, photographers can better understand their craft and eventually innovate in their own unique way. This is a blend of traditional art education with modern street photography, offering a different path to creative mastery.

These ideas stand out because they shift the conversation in photography from focusing solely on the technical or commercial aspects, to making it a reflective, deeply personal, and even philosophical practice.

Here are some of the most interesting and unique ideas from Eric Kim’s philosophy on art and street photography:

  1. Street Photography as Walking Meditation
    One of Kim’s most unique ideas is viewing street photography as a form of walking meditation. He encourages photographers to slow down, walk mindfully, and let the scenes come to them naturally. By being present and aware, the photographer can capture spontaneous, meaningful moments. This idea highlights the connection between mindfulness and creativity, setting his approach apart from more technical or commercially driven photography methods oai_citation:9,PHOTO PHILOSOPHY – ERIC KIM oai_citation:8,HOW ERIC KIM STUDIES COMPOSITION – ERIC KIM.
  2. Personal Photography as Authentic Art
    Kim promotes personal photography, where the photographer documents their own life and experiences as a form of artistic expression. He argues that by focusing on what is personal and meaningful to oneself, the photographer creates more authentic and relatable work. This concept suggests that street photography is not just about documenting public spaces but can also reflect deeply personal narratives oai_citation:7,PHOTO PHILOSOPHY – ERIC KIM oai_citation:6,What’s Eric Kim’s philosophy on art? – ERIC KIM.
  3. Imperfect Photos as Art
    Kim embraces the idea that imperfection in street photography—blurred images, awkward compositions, or unpredictable lighting—can be part of the art. He argues that these imperfections can evoke emotion and tell a story in ways that technically perfect images cannot. This idea subverts traditional expectations of photography as a purely technical craft and elevates it to an artistic expression that values emotion and spontaneity oai_citation:5,Mimetic and Memisis Theory in Art – ERIC KIM oai_citation:4,PHOTO PHILOSOPHY – ERIC KIM.
  4. Simplicity and Minimalism in Composition
    Kim advocates for a minimalist approach to composition, focusing on the essentials to create a powerful image. He borrows ideas from classical art, such as the use of negative space, geometric shapes, and clean lines, to create photographs that are simple yet impactful. This approach, rooted in both artistic and philosophical principles, emphasizes that less is often more in both art and photography oai_citation:3,HOW ERIC KIM STUDIES COMPOSITION – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,What’s Eric Kim’s philosophy on art? – ERIC KIM.
  5. Mimesis and Learning Through Imitation
    A more classical idea that Kim brings into modern photography is the concept of mimesis, where photographers learn by imitating the works of masters. He suggests that studying and copying the techniques of great artists like Leonardo da Vinci helps photographers develop their own style over time. This approach blends traditional art education with the fast-paced, evolving world of street photography oai_citation:1,Mimetic and Memisis Theory in Art – ERIC KIM.

These ideas not only distinguish Eric Kim’s approach from other photographers but also provide a refreshing take on street photography as a creative and meditative practice.

Most interesting or unique ideas here

Here are some notable quotes from Eric Kim about art and street photography that highlight his philosophical approach:

  1. On Street Photography as Art:
  1. On Personal Expression in Street Photography:
  • “Make photos for yourself, not for others. The more personal and subjective your photos are, the more they will connect with others.” This reflects Kim’s belief that the most powerful art stems from personal experience and authenticity oai_citation:4,PHOTO PHILOSOPHY – ERIC KIM.
  1. On Street Photography as a Meditative Practice:
  • “Street photography is walking meditation. Slow down, look around, and let the moments come to you. The more you relax and observe, the better your photos will be.” Kim likens the process of street photography to mindfulness, where creativity flows best when the photographer is present in the moment oai_citation:3,PHOTO PHILOSOPHY – ERIC KIM.
  1. On Finding Beauty in the Ordinary:

These quotes capture Eric Kim’s unique perspective, blending the spontaneity of street photography with the intentionality and mindfulness found in traditional art.

Here are some of Eric Kim’s top resources, articles, and posts on art and street photography:

  1. “Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Mastering Street Photography”
    This is one of Kim’s most comprehensive guides, offering practical tips, philosophy, and inspiration for anyone looking to get started in street photography. He dives deep into techniques, camera settings, and the artistic mindset required to excel in this genre.
    Read it here oai_citation:6,What’s Eric Kim’s philosophy on art? – ERIC KIM.
  2. “The Beauty of Imperfection in Street Photography”
    In this article, Kim explores how imperfection in street photography can actually enhance the artistic value of an image. He contrasts it with the polished, controlled aesthetic of studio photography, emphasizing the spontaneity and rawness that make street photography a true art form.
    Read it here oai_citation:5,HOW ERIC KIM STUDIES COMPOSITION – ERIC KIM.
  3. “Dynamic Photography Composition”
    This post delves into the principles of composition in street photography, teaching how to create dynamic, engaging images by borrowing techniques from classical art forms. He explores ideas like leading lines, chiaroscuro, and dynamic tension, relating them to real-life street photography situations.
    Explore the article here oai_citation:4,HOW ERIC KIM STUDIES COMPOSITION – ERIC KIM.
  4. “Street Photography as Zen Meditation”
    Here, Kim outlines his belief that street photography is more than just taking pictures—it’s a form of meditation and a way to connect with the world. He gives actionable advice on how to approach street photography with a Zen-like mindset.
    Check it out here oai_citation:3,PHOTO PHILOSOPHY – ERIC KIM.
  5. “How to See the World as an Artist and Street Photographer”
    In this article, Kim encourages photographers to approach the world with an artistic eye, always looking for beauty in the ordinary. He offers guidance on how to shift one’s mindset to notice and capture artistic moments in everyday life.
    Read the full post here oai_citation:2,PHOTO PHILOSOPHY – ERIC KIM.
  6. Books by Eric Kim

These resources provide a deep dive into Eric Kim’s approach to blending art with street photography, offering both philosophical insights and practical tips.

Top Eric Kim Art street photography articles links or pages posts or books or resources

Eric Kim’s views on art and street photography are deeply connected, as he considers street photography a form of everyday art. He emphasizes the philosophy that street photography is about more than just capturing images; it’s about engaging with the world around you in a creative, artistic way.

  1. Street Photography as Walking Meditation
    Kim often refers to street photography as a form of walking meditation. He encourages slowing down, being mindful of your surroundings, and allowing the world to present opportunities for photography. This idea of capturing life as it happens aligns street photography with traditional art forms, where patience and observation are key. Kim suggests that the spontaneity and unpredictability of the streets offer raw material for artistic expression oai_citation:8,PHOTO PHILOSOPHY – ERIC KIM oai_citation:7,HOW ERIC KIM STUDIES COMPOSITION – ERIC KIM.
  2. Street Photography as a Personal Artistic Expression
    In his articles, Kim explains how street photography is deeply personal, likening it to other forms of art where the creator’s voice and perspective are central. He advises photographers to document their unique view of the world, making photography an extension of their identity. This personal connection elevates street photography from a mere documentary style to an art form with individual meaning and interpretation oai_citation:6,PHOTO PHILOSOPHY – ERIC KIM oai_citation:5,What’s Eric Kim’s philosophy on art? – ERIC KIM.
  3. Simplicity and Composition in Street Photography
    Kim emphasizes the importance of simplicity in both art and street photography. He advocates for stripping down the elements in a photograph, focusing on composition and storytelling. He draws parallels between the visual compositions of street photographers and painters, citing influences like Henri Cartier-Bresson. By concentrating on composition, street photographers can turn everyday scenes into compelling works of art oai_citation:4,HOW ERIC KIM STUDIES COMPOSITION – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,What’s Eric Kim’s philosophy on art? – ERIC KIM.
  4. Capturing the Mundane as Art
    Kim frequently encourages photographers to find beauty in the mundane aspects of everyday life, a principle that resonates with many modern artists. He believes that the streets provide an infinite canvas for art, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary through the photographer’s lens. This concept mirrors the approach of many contemporary artists who turn mundane objects into powerful artistic statements oai_citation:2,What’s Eric Kim’s philosophy on art? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,PHOTO PHILOSOPHY – ERIC KIM.

In essence, Eric Kim views street photography not just as a genre of photography but as a form of artistic practice, where observation, personal expression, and mindfulness are integral to creating meaningful work. By capturing the beauty of everyday moments, street photographers can create art that resonates on a deeply human level.

More posts