Millions of People With A Smart Phone In Their Hands Claim They Are Street Photographers!
A common observation.
Smartphones have made Street Photography incredibly accessible. With a decent camera in everyone’s pocket, it’s easy to snap candid moments in public spaces — which is essentially the core of Street Photography. So people naturally feel like they’re participating in the genre.
But here’s the key difference: “Street Photography isn’t just about taking photos in the Street” It’s about:
– Timing
– Composition
– Storytelling
– Awareness of light, emotion, and context
Many smartphone users take spontaneous or aesthetic photos, but not all are “Intentionally” practicing or studying the craft of Street Photography. So while many *do* Street Photography, few truly develop a unique vision or master the genre.
In short: Accessibility Breeds Volume, but not necessarily depth or Artistry.
Comment
Hi… I agree with your definition of street photography vs picture taken in the street but it has little to do with smartphones. Their ease of use might lure newbies in thinking that the tool makes the picture but it is too good to be true. The same can be said from the resurgence of film photography which bring on the streets photographers without a clear project in mind, hence the shallowness of their work. Not that I am way better than them but, at least, I am aware of my limits!