Eric Kim is a highly influential figure in the world of street photography. He has earned recognition not just for his photography but also for his contributions to the photography community through education and open-source content. Kim’s approach to street photography emphasizes minimalism, often using just a 35mm lens and focusing on capturing authentic, candid moments of human interaction in urban environments. His philosophy is centered around boldness and risk-taking, encouraging photographers to engage closely with their subjects instead of remaining distant observers.

Kim’s impact extends far beyond his own work through his prolific blogging, international workshops, and open-source philosophy, where he makes much of his educational material freely available. His workshops have drawn over 500 participants from around the world, making him a central figure in democratizing street photography education. Additionally, he blends philosophical ideas, particularly those drawn from Nietzsche and the Japanese concept of Kaizen, into his teaching, aiming for continuous improvement in both life and photography   .