Travel Update: My Adventures and Street Photography Workshops in Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, and London!

After a month-long trip in Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, and London – finally had some time to sit down and think about my travels, my friends, family, and what I want out of life. Traveling has been tough on me mentally, physically, and emotionally – but it has been through the support of the community and those close to me who have helped me keep on going!

Also watch the video above to hear about my crazy story of leaving my luggage at home (and surviving a month on the road without it!). Thanks again so much for everything guys :)

Behind the Scenes: Street Photography Workshop in Kuala Lumpur with Leica Store Malaysia

I recently taught a street photography workshop in Kuala Lumpur at the Leica Store Malaysia and had a phenomenal time. Huge shout-outs to Shannel and rest of the Leica Store Malaysia crew for making it such a successful workshop! The above video include some snippets shot with my GoPro HD camera in the streets of Kuala Lumpur during the workshop. As you can see, nobody got punched in the face – and most people in the are are extremely friendly!

Also check out my upcoming street photography workshops below, and click more to see all 162 snapshots from the workshop!

April

4/14-4/15: Melbourne, Australia – Introductory – Info – Register now – Sponsored by Michaels –Only 2 spots left!

4/21-4/22: Sydney, Australia – Advanced – Info – Register now

May

5/12-5/13: Berlin, Germany – Introductory – Info – Register now - NEW!

5/31-6/3: Stockholm, Sweden – Introductory – Info – with Fotographiska (The Swedish Museum of Photography) – Only 3 Spots Left!

June

TBA

December

12/9-12/15: Calcutta, India – Week-long Immersion Course – Info – (with Adam Marelli and Jason Martini) – NEW!

You can also stay updated with my future workshops by signing up here.

Video Interview with Gary Tyson from F8 Photography in Hong Kong

Eric Kim interview in Hong Kong from F8 Photography Ltd.

While I was teaching my street photography workshop with Gary Tyson from F8 Photography in Hong Kong, I had the huge pleasure of being interviewed as well. In this video I talk a bit of my reflections on the workshop, as well as general questions about my approach and thoughts on street photography in general. Great production by Gary and the rest of his team!

F8 Photography runs workshops and training in Hong Kong and Cambodia for photography enthusiasts, more information can be seen at the website, f8photography.com.hk or on the blog at f8photography.com.hk/blog

Any other questions you got about shooting street photography in Hong Kong or anywhere else in the world? Leave me your questions in the comments below! 

Behind-the-scenes Video of My London Street Photography Workshop with Charlie Kirk

I just finished my street photography workshop in London with Charlie Kirk (two cute dogs) and thought I’d make a quick GoPro video on the behind-the-scenes action! The footage shows us shooting in Brick Lane in London, with the students shooting on the streets (with a little bit of encouragement from myself and Charlie!).

Below are some of my upcoming street photography workshops. Register if you would like to attend, and sign up to stay updated with future workshops!

April

4/14-4/15: Melbourne, Australia – Introductory – InfoRegister now – Sponsored by Michaels

4/21-4/22: Sydney, Australia – Advanced – InfoRegister now

May

5/12-5/13: Berlin, Germany – Introductory – InfoRegister now – NEW!

5/18-5/19: Amsterdam, Netherlands – Introductory – Info – SOLD OUT! – with Thomas Leuthard

5/31-6/3: Stockholm, Sweden – Introductory – Info – with Fotographiska (The Swedish Museum of Photography) – Only 5 Spots Left!

June

(Date TBA): New York City – Info TBA - Register now (to reserve your spot) – with Adam Marelli

Hong Kong Street Photography Workshop Snapshots with Gary Tyson

Hong Kong Street Photography Workshop Photos
Hong Kong Street Photography Workshop Participants

Here are some snapshots from my recent street photography workshop in Hong Kong with Gary Tyson from F8 Photography. See all the behind-the-scenes fun and goodness below!

Also check out all of my upcoming workshops in London, Melbourne, Sydney, and Sweden by clicking here.

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Upcoming Street Photography Workshops in Kuala Lumpur (3/3-3/4), London (3/10-3/11), Melbourne (4/14-4/15), Sydney (4/21-4/22), and Stockholm (5/21-6/2)!

Group photo for my recent Street Photography Workshop in Hong Kong with Gary Tyson from F8 Photography

Hey streettogs- I just wanted to keep you updated with all of my upcoming street photography workshops. See the list below if I am coming to a city below you! :)

March

3/3-3/4: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Introductory – Info – to register email info@leica-store-malaysia.com

3/10-3/11: London, UK – Introductory – Info – Register now (to reserve your spot) – with Charlie Kirk

April

4/14-4/15: Melbourne, Australia – Introductory – Info TBA – Register now (to reserve your spot) – Sponsored by Michaels

4/21-4/22: Sydney, Australia – Advanced – Info TBA – Register now (to reserve your spot)

May

5/31-6/3: Stockholm, Sweden – Introductory – Info – with Fotographiska (The Swedish Museum of Photography) – NEW!

If you also would like to keep updated with future workshops (or request I go to your city) please sign up below!

Stay Updated With Future Workshops

Downtown LA Intermediate Street Photography Workshop Snapshots

I am pleased to share that my recent street photography workshop in Downtown LA was awesome! Not only were all the participants in the workshop willing to push themselves and find more meaning in their photography, but the group interaction and support was phenomenal. Huge thanks to Todd Hatakeyama from the Hatakeyama Gallery! Also huge thanks to Todd for providing these workshop photos!

Keep updated with all of my upcoming street photography workshops in Kuala Lumpur, London, Melbourne, Sydney, and New York here!

Also keep reading to see all of the photos from behind-the-scenes.

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Los Angeles Street Photography Workshop by Bellamy Hunt (Japancamerahunter) and Rinzi Ruiz 3/10-3/11

I am excited to announce that Bellamy Hunt (Japancamerahunter) and my protege Rinzi Ruiz will be teaching a street photography in Los Angeles March 10th-11th. The workshop will be a fantastic opportunity for beginners and intermediate photographers to learn more about the beautiful craft of street photography- including how to take photographs of strangers, composition, as well as shooting on the streets of the City of Angels!

The workshop will be hosted at the Hatakeyama Gallery in Downtown LA. If you are a Los Angeles native or have ever wanted to visit – it will be an amazing opportunity to shoot all the colorful districts of Downtown. This includes the colorful fashion district, the dazzling jewelry district, and the amazing light rays from Broadway.

Beautiful Downtown LA

Some topics that will be discussed in the workshop:

  • Beating your fear: How to get over the fear of shooting strangers. By learning simple techniques we will teach you how to overcome your fears and how to get into the mindset to go out shooting without being nervous.
  • Find your style: Everyones style is different and we want to encourage yours.
  • Be critical: Learn how to self edit your work and how to select the pieces that really define you.
  • Working for yourself: Learn how to develop projects that will help you define your style.
  • Shooting: What street photography workshop would be complete without actually hitting the streets and shooting?

The course will be $395 for the weekend. Places are limited, so sign up quickly before spots are sold out! Check out more details at: www.lastreetphotographyworkshop.com

Snapshots from my Singapore Street Photography Workshop and “Proximity” Exhibition

At the Leica store in Singapore for my "Proximity" Exhibition in 2012.
At the Leica store in Singapore for my "Proximity" Exhibition

Already missing the warm weather and awesome chicken rice in Singapore! Huge thanks to Adam Rahim for letting me stay at his place (and being my manager), Leonard Goh, Gracia Yap, and Sunil Kaul from Leica for hosting my workshop – as well as Invisible Photographer Asia for letting us use their gallery space. Let me not forget AikBengChia for being my guest speaker at the workshop as well!

Keep reading to check out all the snapshots of the workshop and exhibition!

Snapshots from my Korea Street Photography Workshop and “The City of Angels” Exhibition

korea street photography workshop
My lovely grandma at my exhibition opening!

Going to Korea was a trip to be remembered for me. Not only did I have the chance to teach my first street photography workshop (in my mother country) but also taught it in both English and Korean! Huge thanks goes to Josh White, Dani Kim, Jasmine Aum, Olivia Lee, Jinhwan Roh, Summer and the rest of the Leica Korea team.  I also had my first solo exhibition at the Illum Gallery at the Leica Store in Seoul.

Check out some snapshots from the workshop and exhibition below!

“Conquering Your Fear of Shooting on the Streets” Introduction to Street Photography Workshop in Kuala Lumpur (3/3-3/4)

Leica Store Malaysia

INTERESTED IN STREET PHOTOGRAPHY BUT SCARED OR DON’T KNOW WHERE TO BEGIN?

Have you ever walked on the streets and saw a moment that you wanted to capture, but you were too scared to take the photograph? Do you want to learn the best settings to use on your camera to capture the decisive moment on your camera? Do you want to meet other street photographers that are as equally passionate about street photography or interested in learning like you?

If you are an beginner or intermediate street photographer and want to conquer your fear of shooting in the streets or looking to improve your skills, this workshop is for you. Through this dynamic and hands-on 2-day workshop you will get to learn:

  1. How to get over the fear of shooting street photography
  2. How to shoot candid images without anybody noticing you
  3. How to tell a story with your photos
  4. The best technical settings to use in street photography
  5. The secret of converting your photos into beautiful black and whites
  6. How to react to people who get offended by street photography
  7. How to capture “The Decisive Moment
  8. The laws of street photography
  9. What techniques for taking great street photographs
  10. The history of street photography
Read more for more information about this upcoming exciting street photography workshop in Kuala Lumpur!

“Discover Your Unique Street Photography Style” Intermediate Workshop in Downtown LA with Eric Kim, Rinzi Ruiz, and Jordan Dunn(2/3-2/5)

Are you an avid street photographer seeking to develop your own unique photographic vision and stand out from the crowd?

To this day, there are countless street photographers pounding the pavement and shooting anything that moves with their cameras and smartphones.  How does one stand out from the crowd?  How does one build a strong, unique look to their photos to make them memorable and worthwhile to look at?  How does one get photos worthy of gallery exhibitions and photobooks?

To find out, join me at my intensive intermediate street photography workshop to be held in Downtown LA from February 3rd to the 5th in association with the Hatakeyama Gallery. 

“Proximity” Street Photography Exhibition + Advanced Workshop in Singapore 1/13-1/15

I am excited to announce that I am having a street photography exhibition at the Leica Singapore store this upcoming Jan 13th at 7:00pm of some of my best photos from all around the world. If you are in the area, please feel free to stop by!

Also I will be hosting an Advanced Street Photography Workshop in partnership with Leica Camera Asia Pacific on January 14-15th as well. The workshop will be focused on making your own street photography projects. Click the link below for more info!

More information about the Singapore Workshop >> 

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Singapore Street Photography Workshop Snapshots

 

(Group photo at the Leica Singapore Store)

Never have been to Singapore, but had a great time! Not only was I able to teach a street photography workshop with the famous Danny Santos as my guest speaker, but was also able to check out the IPA gallery and meet Kevin WY Lee, and a bunch of other guys there! Huge thanks to Leica in Singapore for sponsoring the event and giving everyone a fantastic time on the last night!

Planning on going back to Singapore Jan 14th-15th for an Advanced workshop. Hope to see all of you guys there soon! :)

Kota Kinabalu Street Photography Workshop Snapshots

Kota Kinabalu Street Photography Workshop

 (My students absolutely adore me!)

Most of you guys have no idea where Kota Kinabalu is, but it is an absolutely charming city on the coast of Malaysia. I had a ton of fun with the guys here, and it was somewhere very unique and interesting to shoot street photography. One of the highlights was shooting near the pier, where the fisherman let us jump onto their boats (not for the faint of heart!). Hope to see all my buddies in KK soon :)

Huge thanks again to Ryan Ong, my good friend and host during the workshop. We did the workshop in his studio, so if you are in KK and need anything shot, hit him up!

Tokyo Street Photography Workshop Snapshots

Tokyo Street Photography Workshop

 (Attend an Eric Kim street photography workshop, get a free Leica!)

Had an absolutely incredible time in Tokyo teaching my street photography workshop with Charlie Kirk, Bellamy Hunt, and Alfie Goodrich in association with the Leica Ginza store in Tokyo. Sorry for the delay, here are the snapshots from the workshop (warning, there is a lot of photos!)

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“Discover Your Unique Street Photography Style” Intermediate Workshop in Singapore (12/17-12/18)

Street Photography Workshop Singapore

Are you an avid street photographer waiting to discover your own street style that will make you stand out from the crowd? 

If so, I’d like to invite you to my very special intermediate street photography workshop upcoming in Singapore on 12/17-12/18 in association with Leica Asia Pacific. We will be studying and analyzing the work of the great street photographers such as Henri Cartier-Bresson, Garry Winogrand, Elliott Erwitt, Vivian Maier, and many more! We will discuss their quotes, images, videos, and documentaries—and learn more about their specific insights into street photography.  We will identify what makes these photographers great and apply these principles to your own unique style.

Read more to find out more details!

Mumbai, India Street Photography Workshop Recap (Batch 1)

Mumbai Street Photography Workshop

Hey streettogs, I am excited to say that I just finished my first batch of my Mumbai, India Street Photography Workshop! (I got two more groups to go). It was great to work with all the street photographers here, and their enthusiasm to learn was overwhelming.

Surprisingly before this workshop, there wasn’t much of a street photography scene in Mumbai. However after seeing all of the passion as well as the great talent from this first batch of the workshop, Kaushal Parikh is going to be starting an Indian Street Photographers collective. If you are interested in being considered in this group, send your portfolio to kaush_par@yahoo.co.in.

Read more to see all the photos from the workshop!

Recap of my Toronto Street Photography Workshop

Poutin, Tim Hortons, butter tarts, toonies, loonies, monopoly money, cops on horses, and friendly people– I will miss you Toronto! It was such a huge pleasure everyone in Toronto at my workshop, especially Brian, Tasos, Minsoo, Les, Domenic, Andre, James, Chris, Rockie, Robert, Siri, Neil, Ronnie. Also huge shout-outs to Jenn, Tom, and Andre from 500px!

I wasn’t quite sure what to expect out of Toronto at first, but was so pleasantly surprised of how much fun I had here. Canada, I hope to meet up with you again soon! Read more to see the pictures from the workshop.

Downtown Los Angeles Introduction to Street Photography Workshop Day 2 Recap

After a fun-packed two days in Downtown LA, I am pretty pooped. However I had such a wonderful time teaching the workshop and helping my fellow street photographers build more courage when shooting in the streets and also helping them capture more compelling images. On the second day, we focused on editing and post-processing our images, with an emphasis on using Lightroom 3 for post-processing and Silver Efex Pro 2 for black and white conversions.

I spent especially a good portion of time discussing editing– the act of choosing your best images. Editing is something really overlooked when it comes to photography, but is almost as important as shooting. As a piece of advice to all the streettogs out there– don’t upload your images immediately. Wait before you decide to upload them. As Garry Winogrand once said, “Photographers mistake the emotion they feel while taking the picture as judgment that the photograph is good.” Therefore apply this same mentality when it comes to selecting your best work. Don’t simply upload images as a knee-jerk reaction. Let your images marinate for long periods of time before deciding to upload them.

Anyways just wanted to give a shout-out to all the LA street photographers at my workshop. It was a guge pleasure having you Michael, Bill, Chris, Greg, Brian, Jennifer, Dennis, Cameron, Eunice, Jim, Jason, Julie, Adam, at the workshop– your enthusiasm and energy was boundless. Huge thanks especially to Rinzi, Norman, Genesis, Jacob, and the Think Tank Gallery. I love you guys with my heart and soul, and I hope to see you guys all soon!

Heading out tomorrow to Michigan tomorrow and meeting up with my beautiful girlfriend/manager Cindy, and then heading over to Toronto for my upcoming street photography workshop. Wish me safe trip, and will keep you all updated! Keep reading more to check out the rest of the photos from the workshop.

Downtown Los Angeles Introduction to Street Photography Workshop Day 1 Recap

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(Some of the LA street photography workshop participants catching some dinner in Downtown LA after the Day 1 of the Workshop!)

Today I had a blast teaching the first day of my Downtown Los Angeles Introduction to Street Photography Workshop at the Think Tank Gallery. Considering that the photographs from the YOU ARE HERE street photography exhibition are still up, it definitely made for a great backdrop. Photographers from all over LA, and even Bill Nash from Arizona, came and were super pumped about the workshop, and ready to learn more about street photography– and build their courage shooting in the streets.

On the first day of the workshop, we started the day by introducing ourselves to one another and discussed why we loved street photography and what we wanted to get out of it. We then focused a great deal of time on overcoming the fear of shooting street photography, and discussing in-depth techniques to build courage. Not only that, but we reviewed many famous street photographs and learned what made a great photo.

Shooting the streets of Downtown LA was a huge blast, and I was amazed to see how much courage all the street photographers were able to build up. Not only did everyone feel a lot more comfortable shooting in the streets with one another, it was great to have the sense of community and fellowship when out with one another. Of course after a long day of shooting, we went out and enjoyed some nice food together as well.

Really excited for Day 2. Wish me luck, and if you are interested in any of my upcoming workshops in Toronto, India, Tokyo, or Malaysia– check out my workshops page for more info! You can also keep reading to check out the rest of the photos from the workshop!

Studying the Masters: A Recap of my Intermediate Street Photography Workshop in San Diego

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(With the gang at the San Diego Street Photography Workshop)

The past Intermediate Street Photography Workshop in Downtown San Diego was a blast. We studied the work of the master street photographers such as Henri Cartier-Bresson, Garry Winogrand, Helen Levitt, Vivian Maier, Bruce Gilden, Elliott Erwitt and many others. Not only that, but the atmosphere of the Gas Lamp District was fantastic, especially during the nights when it started lighting up. Shooting was a blast, as protestors for the Occupy Wall Street showed up on Saturday and  a ton of people from the Little Italy festival on Sunday.

Huge thanks to all the participants for getting out of their comfort zones and really getting close and intimate with your subjects. It was a wonderful pleasure having you Doug, Michael, Victor, Animesh, Joel, and Derriel. Huge thanks to Todd for helping with all the logistics and getting the hotel room! You are an incredible group of street photographers, and seeing your progress and images truly impressed me.

If you are interested in any of my upcoming workshops in Toronto, Mumbai, Tokyo, or Malaysia, please check out my workshops page!

The 65+ Best Street Photographs from my Intro to Street Photography Workshop in Chicago with Jason Martini

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(Image above by Jayme Sudeth)

Chicago is definitely one of my new favorite places to shoot street photography. Not only is downtown Chicago ripe for street photography, but Chicago has some of the friendliest and down-to-earth people out there. I had the time of my life teaching my street photography workshop with Jason Martini, and you can see a recap of my workshop here.

Below are the best images from the Introduction to Street Photography Workshop. If you are interested, I also have upcoming workshops in Toronto, India, Tokyo, and Malaysia on my workshops page!

Read more to see all of their images below.

The Best 49+ Photos from my Intro San Francisco Street Photography Workshop

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(Above image by David Scott)

I know this is a bit late, but finally got the best images from my workshop participants from my Introduction to Street Photography Workshop in San Francisco. You can see a recap of how the workshop went, and make sure to stay posted for my upcoming workshops in San Diego, Los Angeles, Toronto, India, Tokyo, and Malaysia on my workshops page!

Read more to see all of their images below.

“Finding Your Street Photography Style” Workshop in San Diego (10/7-10/8)

I am excited to say that I am teaching my Intermediate Street Photography Workshop in San Diego this up-coming 10/8-10/9 at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel. The workshop will be focused on finding your own street photography style, and we will be studying the work of the masters (Henri Cartier-Bresson, Garry Winogrand, Elliott Erwitt, and more). There is a cap of only 8 participants, so make sure to click below for more information before spots run out!

>> Click for More information about San Diego Workshop

Also below is my list of other up-coming street photography workshops:

October

10/15-10/16: Downtown Los Angeles - Info

10/22-10/23: Toronto - Info

November

11/5-11/6: Mumbai, India – Introductory - Info

11/9-11/10: Mumbai, India - Introductory - Info

11/12-11/13: Mumbai, India - Introductory - Info

December

12/3-12/4: Tokyo, Japan – (Info TBA)

12/10-12/11: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia - Info

Chicago Introductory Street Photography Workshop with Jason Martini Day 2 Recap

Man, I am pooped. After 2 fun and engaging days of learning about street photography and shooting in the streets I gotta say I have mad love for the Windy City. Some of the nicest folks out there, and Downtown Chicago is definitely one of my new favorite places to shoot. I will miss the hospitality of my beloved cousin Holly and Ian’s pizza, Goose Island Beer, as well as the famous deep-dish pizzas here!

Huge thanks for all the participants who came out, including George, Rod, Margarett, Josh, Ryan, Alex, Darci, Bob, Jayme, Sam, Angelo, and especially Souvik for helping with logistical details and Jason for leading the workshop with me! I will be posting their 5 best images from the workshop soon, so stay posted!

Also if you are interested in one of my upcoming street photography workshops, please check out my workshops page for a workshop coming near you! Below is my upcoming calendar. If you have any questions shoot me an email at erickimphotography@gmail.com

October

10/8-10/9: San Diego –  Sheraton San Diego Hotel –  Info

10/15-10/16: Downtown Los Angeles - Think Tank Gallery - Info

10/22-10/23: Toronto - Location TBA- Info

November

Dates TBA: Mumbai, India - Location TBA - Info

December

12/3-12/4: Tokyo, Japan - Location TBA – Info

12/10-12/11: Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia - Location TBA – Info

Read more to see all the images from the workshop!

Chicago Introductory Street Photography Workshop with Jason Martini Day 1 Recap

Today was a phenomenal Day 1 of my Introductory Street Photography Workshop with Jason Martini in Chicago! It was my first time doing a workshop in Chicago and I was a bit nervous about all the logistical details, but in the end– everything worked well! Huge thanks to Souvik for helping with the accommodations and helping make this thing happen!

It is crazy to think that three months ago I was talking to Charlie Kirk about how I wanted to do street photography full-time and now it is a reality. It reminds me how important it is for me to stay humble (thanks Mom for the advice!) as well continuing to give back to the community. Thomas Leuthard (85mm) was the one who helped me start my street photography career by supporting my trip to Beirut, Lebanon to teach my first workshop— and in his words, I want to pay it forward. I taught my photography class at Phoenix High School in Los Angeles to under-privileged students and now plan on helping expand this network hopefully world-wide. Watching Born into Brothels (a documentary about a photographer teaching photography to kids in the red-light district in India) truly inspired me, and I just want to continue to spread the love of photography. Therefore stay tuned for some great projects that we can all help support! :)

Thanks all of you for your never-ending support and encouragement. I truly love you all. Keep reading to see the rest of the photos of the workshop!

The 50 Best Street Photographs from my Intermediate Downtown Los Angeles Workshop

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Photo above by Dana Barsuhn

One of the most important parts about street photography is to only show your best work. Below are some of the best 5 street photographs taken by my Downtown Los Angeles Street Photography Intermediate Course participants. Add them on Flickr, Twitter, 500px, and take a look at their respective websites and let us know whose work you really dig by leaving a comment!

You can also check out a recap of Day 1 and Day 2 of the Downtown LA Intermediate Workshop. Keep reading more to check out all the inspirational images below!

San Francisco Introduction to Street Photography Workshop Recap

San Francisco Introduction to Street Photography Workshop Participants

Group photo of the SF Introduction to Street Photography Workshop

After a trip visiting Cindy in Michigan for a week, I headed my way over to SF to teach my Introduction to Street Photography Workshop. It was also great to have Tom Brichta from Leica come out and help input his thoughts about street photography while letting us play with some nice Leica equipment! Although hiking up hills was tough, it was wonderful to capture the colorful people of the city. Not only that, but we had great company, food, and support!

I also wanted to thank all the participants Davit, David, Michael Rickey, Michael Cohen, Xiamin, John, Jia, Austin, Justin, Tom, Angela for their willingness to help one another while trying out new street photography techniques! Of course I also want to thank Sarah for letting us use her beautiful home and also to my loving mom for her never-ending support! Make sure to watch the video below– I give each of you guys a shout-out!

Also if you are interested in any of my upcoming workshops in Chicago, Downtown LA, San Diego, Toronto, or Tokyo check out my workshops page for more info!

Video Recap

Read more to check out all the photos from the workshop!

Day 2: Downtown Los Angeles Intermediate Street Photography Workshop Recap (Finding Your Own Street Photography Style)

The last day of the Downtown Los Angeles Intermediate Street Photography Workshop really touched my heart. Being able to facilitate a community of equally passionate and open-minded street photographers really made me realize how wonderful life has been to me. A year ago, I had a faint idea of starting a street photography blog to share all my tips and insights about my path of becoming a street photographer. I had no idea that a year after, I would be able to meet people from all around the world and share this same passion for street photography.

The second day of the workshop went smoothly, and a great time (and great food by my mom and sister) were enjoyed by all! Huge shout-out to The Think Tank Gallery for hosting the workshop and letting me use their venue.Being in the heart of Downtown LA really helped us explore so many colorful neighborhoods (the fashion, jewelry, and toy district as well as Little Tokyo and other areas). Below are some images from the workshop, and expect to see photos from the participants (Mattei, Norman, Nannette, Justin,Rinzi, Elizabeth, Ibarionex, Bo, Todd, Jordan, and Dana) soon!

If you want more information about my upcoming Introductory Street Photography Workshops in San Francisco (9/10-9/11) with Leica or in Chicago (9/17-9/18) with Jason Martini check out my workshops page or shoot me an email at erickimphotography@gmail.com

Day 1: Downtown Los Angeles Intermediate Street Photography Workshop Recap (Finding Your Own Street Photography Style)

Hey streettogs, I’m excited to say that the first day of my Downtown Los Angeles Intermediate Street Photography went extremely well! It was the first time I taught the Intermediate workshop, and quite frankly was worried how it would go. I made the Intermediate Workshop from scratch (completely new material from the Introductory Workshop) and wasn’t quite sure how it would be in terms of engagement, timing, and fun.

However things went very smoothly, and I really fed off all the positive energy from the participants of the workshop. We studied the work of some of the great street photographers, such as Cartier-Bresson, Doisneau, Winogrand, Erwitt, and Levitt and learned more about their methodology and philosophy when it came to shooting. By looking at a combination of videos of them shooting on the street, documentaries, as well as images and quotes– it helped us understand their style and how we could apply it to our own.

I want to personally thank all the participants of the workshop (Mattei, Norman, Nannette, Justin, Rinzi, Elizabeth, Ibarionex, Bo, Todd, Jordan, and Dana) for their enthusiasm to keep an open mind, learn new things, and apply them when shooting on the streets. Although I love doing workshops for the street photography, my favorite is meeting new and passionate people from all around the globe and different walks of life.

To you guys who attended today: rest up and let’s have some more fun tomorrow! Read more to check out all the photos from today!

Chicago Street Photography Workshop with Eric Kim and Jason Martini

Pipe it in” by Jason Martini I am excited to announce that I will be teaching an Introductory Street Photography Workshop in Chicago 9/17-9/18 with talented street photographer Jason Martini. This workshop will be great for anybody interested in street photography or wanting to improve their current skills. Here are some of the topics we will cover: 1. How to get over the fear of shooting street photography 2. How to shoot candid images without anybody noticing you 3. How to tell a story with your photos 4. The best technical settings to use in street photography 5. How to post-process and edit your images and create captivating color or beautiful black and white photos. The workshop will be full of insightful tips & techniques, and there will be lots of time for you to ask us your individual questions on street photography. Not only that, but you will have the opportunity to shoot with other passionate street photographers and us on the streets of Chicago.

WORKSHOP TIME & LOCATION

Date: September 17-18th Time: 10am-6pm (both days) Location: University of Chicago

REGISTER NOW:

If you are interested in registering or would like more information, please email me at erickimphotography@gmail.com

ABOUT JASON MARTINI:

Jason Martini is a street photographer based in Chicago and has been featured on The Chicagoist, my blog, and has a published radio-style interview. Check out more of his images on his Flickr.

STREET PHOTOS BY JASON MARTINI:

BEHIND-THE-SCENES VIDEO

Upcoming Street Photography Workshops in Los Angeles (8/27-8/28) and San Francisco (9/10-9/11) with Eric Kim

My incredibly beautiful and talented girlfriend (and manager) Cindy Nguyen put together this great footage of all the “behind-the-scenes” footage of my previous workshops in the UK, Switzerland, and Los Angeles. Props to her for putting together such a well-made video with cool music to accompany it as well! As a reminder, here is my upcoming workshop schedule:

August

Level 2: Developing Your Own Street Style (Los Angeles)

Ready to go out and shoot
Ready to go out and shoot

This workshop is going to be held next Saturday/Sunday so sign up while spots are still open! This workshop will be focused on developing your own street photography style, and we will spend time studying the work of the masters (Henri Cartier-Bresson, Robert Doisneau, Garry Winogrand, Vivian Maier, and others). We will start off the first day with a portfolio review of everyone who is attending, and everyone will be given certain tasks and assignments to shoot on the streets. It will be a great learning experience for those who consider themselves intermediate to advanced street photographers who want to continue to develop their street photographic vision.

  • Level: Intermediate-Advanced
  • Location: Downtown Los Angeles (939 Maple Street, Los Angeles, CA)
  • Date: August 27-28th
  • Time: 10am-6pm both days
  • Open spots: 2/10
  • *You don’t need to attend the introductory course to apply

Email me at erickimphotography@gmail.com for more information or if you would like to register.

September

Level 1: Conquering Your Fear of Shooting on the Streets (San Francisco)

Rinzi Ruiz Shooting On the Streets

Have some experience in street photography but you are having a hard time figuring out what to shoot or how to get closer to people? Sign up for this workshop where I will teach you great hands-on tips & techniques how to conquer your fear of shooting on the streets. We will understand what makes a great street photograph by looking at the work of influential past and contemporary street photographers.  The environment will be very collaborative and engaging. Check out reviews by Ibarionex Perello at The Candid Frame and Todd Hatakeyama from Lighting Leica to get a good sense if this workshop is a good fit for you. Also check out photos of my participants shooting on the streets.

  • Level: Introductory
  • Location: San Francisco (55 Dolores Street, San Francisco, CA)
  • Date: September 10-11th
  • Time: 10am-6pm both days
  • Open spots: 5/10
  • Leica will be there to demo their cameras/lenses (a great time to test out a Leica M9!)

Email me at erickimphotography@gmail.com for more information or if you would like to register. Also feel free to check out my workshops page.

Also check out more of Cindy’s videos at http://vimeo.com/thelittlewave

6 Inspirational Street Photography Essays from my Los Angeles Workshop Participants

Ibarionex Perello

Ibarionex Perello, from his “Shadows” essay

For my Introduction to Street Photography Workshop in Los Angeles, I assigned all my students to go out on the 2nd day and shoot a consecutive street photography essay. They chose themes such as shadows, hands, tattoos, shadows, and even tourists.

If you would like more information about my upcoming workshops in Los Angeles on 8/28-8/29 or in San Francisco on 9/10-9/11 check out my workshops page or email me at erickimphotography@gmail.com

Keep reading to check out the rest of the inspirational images and essays.

Student Photos: LA Workshop 2011

Rinzi Ruiz

Shot by Rinzi Ruiz. Phenomenal light!

For the first day of my introductory street photography workshop, I was very impressed to see all the great photos everyone took! We were able to edit/post-process each of the photos with one another using Lightroom 3 and Silver Efex Pro, and the results look great. Read more to check out all of the photos!

LA Street Photography Workshop: Day 2 (Friendship, photography, and community)

Day 2 of the LA Street Photography workshop was a huge success and I am so sad it is already over! We spent a good time during the day editing our images and post-processing them with Lightroom 3 and Silver Efex Pro, and everyone got some great images! I am still in the process of editing all the images and videos, so please be patient as they get ready ;)

Also I am accepting sign-ups for my Intermediate Street Photography course on August 27-28th–so please shoot me an email at erickimphotography@gmail.com for more info!

Update: Just uploaded photos of the workshop–read more to see them all!

Street Photography 101 Workshop Powerpoint and Outline

Street Photography 101 Workshop Eric Kim Thomas Leuthard

Hey everybody!

After having the time of my life teaching my Street Photography 101 workshop in Beirut, Lebanon with Thomas Leuthard, I thought that I’d spread the love to those of you who couldn’t make it! In alignment with my ideas on open source photography, I will be providing all of my slides as well as my outline to those who are interested. Feel free to use this information in any way you’d like–but all I ask is credit back to myself or to Thomas Leuthard (for his slides). I hope you guys enjoy and spread the love as well!

If you are interested in having me lead a street photography workshop in your city, please shoot me an email to erickimphotography@gmail.com. You can also contact Thomas Leuthard at photography@leuthard.ch.

Links:

Street Photography 101 Slideshare Link

Street Photography 101 Outline [.doc]

Street Photography 101 Powerpoint [.pptx]

How I Fundraised $1100 in 3 Days for my Beirut, Lebanon Trip

Thomas Leuthard and I at the end of our Street Photography 101 Workshop in Beirut, Lebanon. 2011
Thomas and I at the end of our workshop
Thomas Leuthard and I at the end of our Street Photography 101 Workshop in Beirut, Lebanon

After teaching my Street Photography 101 workshop in Beirut, Lebanon–I got interviewed by a magazine called NowLebanon. One of the questions that Naziha (the reporter) asked me was how in the world I raised $1100 for my plane ticket to fly to Beirut, Lebanon in only 3 days. My answer for her was (you) the community.