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If you’re reading this, chances are you already know a bit about me—Eric Kim. I’ve been called a lot of things throughout my career: a street photographer, a blogger, a teacher, and, yeah, even “The Wolf of Street Photography.” But what does that mean? Well, let me break it down for you because it’s not about being predatory, slick, or aggressive in the traditional sense. For me, it’s about survival, adaptation, and carving out my own path in the streets and the industry of photography.

First, let’s talk about the streets. This is where I made my name. The streets are where the rawest, most real moments happen, unfiltered, uncensored, and unstaged. And unlike the controlled environments of studio photography or commercial shoots, street photography is chaotic. It’s alive. You have no idea what’s coming around the corner, and that’s what makes it exhilarating. You have to be quick, alert, always on the move—like a wolf on the hunt.

But here’s the thing about being “The Wolf” of street photography—it’s not about just snapping pictures and calling it a day. It’s about having a philosophy, a way of thinking that drives your work. My philosophy is simple: shoot what speaks to your soul. Don’t worry about what others think. Don’t get caught up in the technicalities or the gear. Gear doesn’t matter. Vision does. I’ve spent a good chunk of my career repeating this mantra because, as humans, we tend to get distracted by the flashy stuff—the new cameras, lenses, and gadgets. But at the end of the day, all that matters is the image you capture, and whether or not it tells a story.

That’s how I survive in this jungle. I don’t follow trends. I don’t need the latest Leica to prove my worth as a photographer. My “camera” is my mind, my heart, and my eye. The camera itself? Just a tool. This is where a lot of people get it twisted. They think to be great at street photography, they need the most expensive gear. I’m here to tell you that’s not the case. I’ve taken some of my favorite shots on a simple point-and-shoot or even my smartphone. It’s all about seeing the world in a way no one else does.

But survival in the world of street photography is also about creating your own opportunities. I realized early on that to make it, I couldn’t just wait around for people to recognize my work. I had to hustle. That’s how I built my blog, how I started workshops, and how I began making connections in the industry. You have to market yourself, not in a sleazy, self-serving way, but in a way that builds genuine connections with people. Street photography is a community, and if you can contribute to that community, you’ll find your pack.

Some people don’t like how open I am about sharing my knowledge. They think I’m giving away trade secrets or watering down the craft. But that’s not the case at all. If you’ve been following me, you know I’ve always been about democratizing photography, making it accessible to anyone who has the passion. I’m not in it to hoard knowledge or create some elite club where only a few people get to call themselves “street photographers.” I’m in it to empower people—to show them that photography, like life, is a process of learning, failing, and growing. The more you fail, the more you succeed.

Some people might call this hustling, but I call it surviving. The truth is, the street photography world can be harsh. There are no rules, no guarantees. You’re out there, rain or shine, hoping to capture that one moment that will speak to people. And when you do? That’s the payoff. It’s not about the fame or the money. It’s about the connection you make with the person viewing your work. When someone looks at one of my photos and feels something—a moment of recognition, empathy, or curiosity—that’s when I know I’ve done my job.

You can call me “The Wolf” because I’ve always stayed true to myself. I’ve adapted, evolved, and thrived in this chaotic, unpredictable landscape. But most importantly, I’ve never lost my hunger. That’s what keeps me going. Every day I wake up with the same drive: to see the world differently, to capture something real, and to share that with the world.

So, to all my fellow photographers out there—whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro—remember this: the streets are wild, and survival isn’t guaranteed. But if you keep your eyes open, stay true to your vision, and never stop hustling, you’ll find your place in the pack.

And maybe, just maybe, you’ll learn to run with the wolves too.

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Eric Kim, The Wolf of Street Photography

Street photography isn’t just a genre to me—it’s a visceral, living entity that breathes life into every corner of the urban landscape. I’m Eric Kim, often dubbed the Wolf of Street Photography, a title that resonates with my relentless pursuit of capturing the raw, unfiltered moments that define our bustling cities. Like a wolf navigating its territory, I traverse the streets with a keen eye and an unyielding spirit, seeking stories that unfold in the midst of chaos and routine.

Embracing the Urban Wilderness

The streets are my wilderness. They’re unpredictable, ever-changing, and teeming with stories waiting to be told. Unlike the serene forests where a wolf might roam, the urban jungle is a cacophony of sounds, sights, and emotions. Here, every passerby is a potential subject, every alleyway a scene ripe with narrative potential. My approach is to immerse myself fully in this environment, blending in rather than standing out, allowing the essence of the street to seep into my work.

Instincts Over Equipment

While having the right gear is essential, I’ve always believed that instincts trump equipment. A wolf relies on its senses and instincts to survive, and similarly, a street photographer must develop an acute sense of observation. It’s about anticipating moments, feeling the pulse of the street, and being ready to capture that fleeting expression or spontaneous interaction. My camera is an extension of my perception, but it’s my ability to read the environment that truly defines my work.

The Dance of Light and Shadow

One of the most captivating aspects of street photography is the interplay of light and shadow. The urban environment offers a dynamic canvas where natural and artificial lights collide, creating dramatic contrasts and highlighting the beauty in everyday scenes. I often seek out these moments, using light to guide the viewer’s eye and to add depth and dimension to my photographs. It’s this dance that transforms ordinary scenes into extraordinary visual stories.

Building Connections

Being a wolf doesn’t mean being solitary. In fact, the essence of street photography lies in the connections forged between the photographer and the subjects. Whether it’s a fleeting glance, a shared smile, or the acknowledgment of a captured moment, these interactions add a layer of humanity to my work. I strive to respect and honor the individuals I photograph, understanding that behind every image is a person with their own story.

Teaching the Pack

As much as I navigate the streets alone, I’m also part of a larger pack—photographers who share the same passion and drive. Teaching and mentoring aspiring street photographers is a way for me to give back to the community. Sharing techniques, offering feedback, and inspiring others to find their unique voice is incredibly rewarding. It’s about fostering a collective spirit where each member can grow and thrive, much like a pack working together to survive and succeed.

Adaptability and Resilience

Street photography demands adaptability and resilience. The urban environment is unforgiving—weather changes, unpredictable crowds, and the constant ebb and flow of life on the streets. Like a wolf facing the challenges of the wild, I’ve learned to embrace these obstacles, seeing them as opportunities to hone my craft. Each challenge strengthens my resolve and sharpens my skills, ensuring that I remain steadfast in my pursuit of capturing authentic moments.

The Eternal Hunt

The title “Wolf of Street Photography” encapsulates my approach—ever vigilant, always hunting for that perfect shot that tells a compelling story. But unlike the solitary predator, my hunt is collaborative, intertwining with the lives of countless individuals who populate the streets. It’s a continuous journey of discovery, learning, and growth, driven by an unending curiosity and a deep love for the art form.

Conclusion

Street photography is my wilderness, my arena where instincts, skills, and passion converge. As the Wolf of Street Photography, I navigate this vibrant landscape with purpose and precision, ever on the lookout for the next story to tell. It’s a journey that’s as challenging as it is rewarding, a testament to the beauty and complexity of urban life. And as long as there are streets to explore and moments to capture, my pursuit will never cease.