Hello everyone! Here I am again with some more Street Photography photos and insights for you guys. This week, I’m using only black and white photos. And if you are new here and missed the first part of this newsletter, you can check it out here.
Quick note: Substack’s Image Gallery does not work very well on emails (who would've thought?) So I would suggest you download the Substack app if you want to see the photos in their original crop.
Why Black And White Photography?
Stepping onto the streets of Lisbon with my camera in hand, I am immediately captivated by the timeless charm that unfolds before me. The narrow cobblestone alleys, adorned with tiles and intricate facades, become the perfect backdrop for my black-and-white Street Photography. As I wander through the bustling neighborhoods, I am drawn to the play of light and shadow, the contrast that accentuates the character of the city. The locals, with their warm smiles and vibrant personalities, effortlessly blend into the picturesque streets, adding a touch of authenticity to every frame.
Why Lisbon?
I always try to capture the essence of Lisbon's rich history and cultural tapestry as if freezing a moment in time. In this monochromatic world, beauty lies in the simplicity and the ability to evoke emotions through the absence of color. Lisbon becomes my muse, and through my lens, I strive to immortalize its soul and share its stories with the world.
Gear For Street Photography
As for gear, you don't need to have the latest and most expensive camera equipment to capture stunning imagery. I believe that Street Photography is the punk rock genre of photography. Anyone can do it, and you will be fine using only your phone if you want. I’m not saying your photos will be good at the beginning, though. Like any other craft, you will have to practice a lot, and it may take some time until you find your style. But if you keep doing it, eventually, you will become better at it.
But if you decide to buy a camera, it's essential to have versatile lenses on hand, such as a 24mm. 35mm or 50mm, to capture various focal lengths. But always remember, it’s always a good idea to pack light, especially when moving in hilly and crowded areas of Lisbon. A backpack or sling bag would work fine. But my ideal choice is a tote bag. Yeah, you read it right. I do not walk around with a backpack full of stuff I don’t need. The tote bag is super light and also helps me to keep all my belongings within reach.
Street Photography vs. Privacy
When it comes to what you should avoid when doing street photography in Lisbon, the first obvious one is to respect people's privacy and dignity. Honestly, I do not always ask for permission before taking someone's photo. But if I feel that people look annoyed about me photographing them, I normally approach them and show them the photos. I ask if it is okay to keep the photos and I always respect their answer.