Famous Street Photographers - 10 Artists Who Will Inspire You
Street photography is a fascinating and dynamic genre of photography that captures the essence of everyday life in public spaces. It's a genre that requires a keen eye, quick reflexes, and an ability to see beauty in the mundane.
Over the years, many talented street photographers have emerged, each with their unique style and perspective. In this blog, we'll introduce you to 10 Famous Street photographers who have made significant contributions to this captivating field and will get you inspired. For extra inspiration, check out our Street Photography Tips tutorial.
Henri Cartier-Bresson
Often referred to as the father of modern street photography, Cartier-Bresson was a master of capturing "the decisive moment." His work is characterized by impeccable timing and composition, with a focus on geometry and human emotions.
Henri Cartier-Bresson's journey into photography began in 1931 when he acquired a Leica camera. His interest in art and painting eventually led him to photography, and he studied under renowned photographers such as André Kertész and Martin Munkácsi.
Most Famous Work: "Behind The Gare St Lazare" - This iconic photograph of a man jumping over a puddle behind the Gare St. Lazare encapsulates Cartier-Bresson's philosophy of capturing that perfect fleeting moment in street photography. His famous book ‘The Decisive Moment’ features some of his most celebrated images. The book was described by Robert Capa as “a Bible for photographers.”
© Henri Cartier-Bresson - “Behind The Gare St Lazare"
Cover of Cartier-Bresson’s book "the Decisive Moment”.
Early Life and Education
Cartier-Bresson showed an early interest in drawing and painting. He attended École Fénelon, a Catholic school in Paris, where his artistic talents began to flourish. However, his formal education was somewhat irregular, as he was more interested in creative pursuits than traditional academics.
Cartier-Bresson’s formal education in the arts began in earnest when he attended a private art school run by the famed painter André Lhote in 1927. Lhote was a Cubist painter and a significant figure in the French art scene, known for his theories on composition and form. Under Lhote’s tutelage, Cartier-Bresson developed a deep understanding of artistic principles, particularly composition, which would later influence his approach to photography.
Henri Cartier-Bresson, Hyéres, France (1932)
Despite his passion for painting, Cartier-Bresson found the conventional art world somewhat restrictive. His interest began to shift after he discovered the photographs of Eugène Atget and the surrealist work of Man Ray. This exposure to photography as an art form intrigued him, leading him to experiment with a camera.
Impact on photography
Henri Cartier-Bresson's impact on photography was immeasurable. His legacy extends beyond his own remarkable images, as he played a vital role in shaping the ethos of Magnum Photos and inspiring countless photographers to seek the extraordinary in the ordinary, to capture the fleeting beauty of the world through their lens. His work remains a timeless testament to the power of observation, timing, and an unwavering commitment to the art of photography.
Dorothea Lange
Dorothea Lange was a pioneering American documentary photographer and photojournalist known for her iconic images of the Great Depression.
Her early interest in photography led her to study under several influential photographers and artists. Lange's career took a significant turn when she began documenting the struggles of migrant workers during the 1930s.
Most Famous Work: "Migrant Mother," which became a symbol of the era's hardships. Her dedication to social and political issues through her photography made her an essential figure in the history of documentary and street photography.
© Dorothea Lange - "Migrant Mother"
Early Life and Education
Dorothea Lange was born on May 26, 1895, in Hoboken, New Jersey, to second-generation German immigrants, Heinrich Nutzhorn and Johanna Lange. Her early years were marked by significant challenges that profoundly influenced her perspective on life and, subsequently, her photography.
When Lange was twelve, her parents separated, and she adopted her mother's maiden name, Lange. This period of family upheaval and financial instability further shaped her sensitivity to social issues and human suffering.
Lange's formal education was somewhat unconventional. Despite her family's financial difficulties, her mother was determined that Lange would receive a good education. She attended public schools in New York City, where she moved with her mother after her parents' separation.
Dorothea Lange, White Angel Breadline, 1933
After high school, Lange decided to pursue a career in photography, a relatively unconventional choice for a woman at the time. She enrolled in a teacher training program but soon realized that her passion lay elsewhere. In 1914, Lange began taking photography classes at Columbia University in New York City. She studied under the tutelage of Clarence H. White, a renowned photographer and a key figure in the Photo-Secession movement, which emphasized the artistic potential of photography.
Under White's mentorship, Lange developed a deep appreciation for the artistic aspects of photography, learning about composition, lighting, and the importance of capturing genuine human emotions. White's influence helped shape her technical skills and her approach to photography as a means of storytelling and social commentary.
Impact on photography
Lange's contributions to documentary photography earned her numerous accolades, including the first solo exhibition of a woman photographer at the Museum of Modern Art in New York in 1966, a year after her death.
Dorothea Lange's work not only documented a crucial period in American history but also laid the foundation for a socially conscious approach to photography. Her images remain a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity of photography to bear witness to the complexities of society.
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Garry Winogrand
Winogrand's work is characterized by its raw energy and candidness. He was known for his prolific output, capturing the chaos and vibrancy of urban life in America during the mid-20th century.
Garry Winogrand's fascination with photography began during his time in the U.S. Air Force. After serving, he studied painting at Columbia University but shifted his focus to photography, exploring the streets of New York City and honing his unique style.
Most Famous Work: "Women Are Beautiful" - Winogrand's 1975 book is a collection of candid shots of women on the streets of New York City, showcasing his talent for capturing the essence of female beauty and urban life.
© Garry Winogrand - "Women Are Beautiful"
Garry Winogrand was born on January 14, 1928, in the Bronx, New York City, to a working-class Jewish family. His father, Abraham Winogrand, was a leather worker, and his mother, Bertha, worked in a factory. Growing up in the Bronx, Winogrand was exposed to the vibrant and diverse culture of the city, which would later become a central theme in his work.
Winogrand's early life was marked by the bustling environment of New York City, where he developed an interest in the visual world around him. His initial artistic inclinations, however, were directed towards painting rather than photography.
After graduating from high school, Winogrand briefly attended the City College of New York, where he studied painting. However, his academic pursuits were interrupted when he was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1946, serving for two years. Following his military service, Winogrand returned to New York with a renewed focus on finding his artistic path.
In 1948, Winogrand enrolled at Columbia University, where he initially continued studying painting. It was at Columbia that he discovered photography, which quickly captivated his interest. He took a photography course taught by Alexey Brodovitch, the legendary art director of Harper's Bazaar. Brodovitch's influence was significant, as he encouraged Winogrand to explore the dynamic possibilities of photography and to think about capturing moments in innovative ways.
In addition to his formal education at Columbia, Winogrand studied at the New School for Social Research. There, he was influenced by the photographer and teacher Sid Grossman, who introduced him to the idea of using the camera to explore social issues and personal expression. Grossman's emphasis on photographing real-life scenes and the spontaneity of street photography resonated with Winogrand and played a crucial role in shaping his approach.
Garry Winogrand - Los Angeles, 1980-1983
Impact on photography
Despite his prolific career, Winogrand's work was not without controversy. His later photographs often left more questions than answers, challenging traditional notions of composition and narrative. Some critics found his later work chaotic, while others saw it as a deliberate departure from conventional photography, embracing the spontaneity and ambiguity of life.
Tragically, Winogrand passed away in 1984 at the age of 56. Posthumously, his work has gained continued recognition, with retrospectives and exhibitions showcasing the breadth and depth of his contribution to street photography. Garry Winogrand's legacy lives on as a testament to the power of capturing the essence of the streets, freezing moments in time that continue to resonate with viewers and inspire contemporary photographers.
Vivian Maier
Maier's work remained undiscovered until after her death, but it has since garnered significant attention. Her images, often self-portraits reflected in windows, offer a unique perspective on the streets of Chicago.
Vivian Maier's journey into photography was a private one. She worked as a nanny for several decades, during which she captured thousands of photographs as a hobby. Her talent remained largely unknown until her work was discovered posthumously.
Most Famous Work: The discovery of Maier's extensive archive of street photographs, particularly her self-portraits reflected in windows, has garnered widespread acclaim in the posthumous recognition of her talent.
© Vivian Maier - "Self-Portraits"
Early Life and Education
Vivian Dorothy Maier was born on February 1, 1926, in New York City to immigrant parents. Her mother, Maria Jaussaud, was French, and her father, Charles Maier, was Austrian. The family dynamics were complex, and her early years were characterized by instability. Her father left the family when Maier was still young, and she spent much of her childhood moving between the United States and France.
Maier's early life in France is not well-documented, but she spent significant time in the village of Saint-Bonnet-en-Champsaur, in the French Alps, living with her mother’s family. This rural setting contrasted sharply with the urban environments she would later photograph extensively.
Vivian Maier's formal education was minimal, and much of her learning came from her experiences and observations. There is little evidence to suggest she received any formal training in photography during her youth. Her self-taught approach to photography allowed her to develop a unique and unfiltered perspective, free from the constraints of traditional photographic techniques and theories.
While working as a nanny, Maier carried her camera with her everywhere, documenting the world around her with an acute sense of curiosity and observation. Her Rolleiflex twin-lens reflex camera became an extension of herself, allowing her to capture candid moments in the lives of strangers and the urban landscape.
Vivian Maier Self-Portrait, New York, NY, 1954
Impact on photography
In 2011, the documentary film "Finding Vivian Maier" brought her story to a broader audience, exploring her life, her reclusive nature, and the unexpected legacy she left behind.
The film revealed Maier's complex personality and shed light on the challenges she faced, including financial struggles and periods of homelessness.
Vivian Maier's posthumous recognition as a remarkable street photographer has led to numerous exhibitions, books, and a renewed appreciation for her contribution to the art form. Her story serves as a reminder of the unassuming brilliance that can exist in everyday life, waiting to be discovered and celebrated.
Vivian Maier's work continues to inspire photographers and enthusiasts alike, emphasizing the enduring power of capturing the beauty in the world, even when the artist remains unseen.
Robert Frank
Frank's groundbreaking book, "The Americans," is a seminal work in street photography. His images provide a critical commentary on American society during the 1950s, offering a fresh perspective on the nation.
Robert Frank's early exposure to photography was as a commercial photographer in Switzerland. However, he found his true passion in documentary photography and moved to the United States to pursue it.
Most Famous Work: "The Americans" - This groundbreaking book features Frank's poignant images of American society in the 1950s. It's a seminal work that offers a fresh perspective on the nation's culture and people.
© Robert Frank - Image from "The Americans"
Early Life and Education
Robert Frank was born on November 9, 1924, in Zurich, Switzerland, into a well-off Jewish family. His father, Hermann Frank, was a German Jew who had fled to Switzerland to escape persecution, and his mother, Rosa Zucker, was from a wealthy Swiss Jewish family. The Franks lived comfortably in Zurich, but the rise of Nazism in Europe and the ensuing turmoil had a profound effect on young Robert.
Growing up in a sheltered environment during a time of significant political upheaval, Frank developed a sense of disillusionment with the rigidity and conservatism of Swiss society. This early exposure to the darker aspects of human nature and societal constraints influenced his later work, which often explored themes of alienation, discontent, and the human condition.
Frank's formal education did not follow a traditional academic path. He showed an early interest in art and visual expression, initially focusing on graphic design and painting. After completing his basic education, Frank apprenticed with Hermann Segesser, a commercial photographer in Zurich, where he learned the technical aspects of photography. This apprenticeship marked the beginning of his formal engagement with the medium.
In 1942, Frank created his first handmade book of photographs, a compilation of images he had taken in and around Zurich. This early work demonstrated his budding talent and his ability to capture candid moments and everyday scenes with a distinctive eye.
Robert Frank, Main Street - Savannah, Georgia, 1955
Impact on photography
Beyond "The Americans," Frank continued to experiment with photography and filmmaking, pushing artistic boundaries. His later work included collaborations with writers and poets, as well as explorations of personal themes in both still photography and film.
Robert Frank's impact on the photographic landscape extends far beyond the pages of "The Americans." His willingness to confront societal norms and his ability to distil the complexities of human experience into powerful images have solidified his place as a visionary in the world of photography. Frank's work continues to be studied, celebrated, and discussed for its enduring influence and its role in reshaping the trajectory of documentary photography.
Joel Meyerowitz
Meyerowitz is known for his vibrant and colourful street photography. He was one of the early adopters of colour film in the genre and has produced captivating images from various cities worldwide.
Meyerowitz started as an art director but was captivated by the street photography of Robert Frank. This influence prompted him to take up photography full-time, eventually transitioning from black and white to colour photography.
Most Famous Work: "Cape Light" series, which captures the tranquil and ethereal beauty of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is among his most celebrated work, known for its exquisite use of colour.
© Joel Meyerowitz - "Cape Light"
Early Life and Education
Joel Meyerowitz was born on March 6, 1938, in the Bronx, New York City, to a middle-class Jewish family. Growing up in the vibrant and diverse environment of the Bronx, Meyerowitz was immersed in the dynamic urban culture that would later become a central theme in his work.
Meyerowitz's early interests were not initially focused on photography. He attended Ohio State University, where he studied painting, art, and medical illustration. His formal education in the arts provided him with a strong foundation in visual composition and an appreciation for the creative process, which would later influence his photographic style.
Meyerowitz's transition to photography came somewhat serendipitously. In 1962, while working as an art director at an advertising agency in New York City, he was assigned to accompany photographer Robert Frank on a shoot. Watching Frank work with a small 35mm camera and capture candid moments on the streets of New York was a revelation for Meyerowitz. Inspired by Frank's ability to capture the spontaneity and vibrancy of urban life, Meyerowitz decided to pursue photography full-time.
Quitting his job, Meyerowitz borrowed a 35mm camera and began exploring the streets of New York City, capturing the ebb and flow of everyday life. His early work was influenced by street photographers like Robert Frank and Henri Cartier-Bresson, who emphasized the importance of capturing decisive moments and the candid beauty of daily life.
Although Meyerowitz did not receive formal training in photography, his background in painting and art played a crucial role in his development as a photographer. He educated himself by studying the works of established photographers and by practicing tirelessly on the streets of New York. His self-directed education allowed him to experiment with different styles and techniques, ultimately leading him to develop his unique voice.
Joel Meyerowitz 35mm Color - Street Photography
Impact on photography:
In 2018, Joel Meyerowitz became the first photographer to receive the Outstanding Contribution to Photography award from the Sony World Photography Awards, recognizing his substantial impact on the medium.
As a pioneer in colour street photography, Joel Meyerowitz has influenced subsequent generations of photographers and has helped reshape the perception of colour as a legitimate and expressive medium in documentary and street photography. His dedication to capturing the vibrancy and complexity of life on the streets has left an enduring legacy in the world of photography.
Lee Friedlander
Friedlander's work often incorporates reflections, shadows, and multiple layers within a single frame. His unique approach to composition and his ability to find beauty in the chaos of the street make him a true street photography icon.
Friedlander's interest in photography began when he received a Brownie camera as a gift. He initially pursued photography as a hobby but soon turned it into his profession, exploring the streets of New York City.
Most Famous Work: Friedlander's "Self Portrait" series, where he often incorporates his own shadow or reflection in urban scenes, is a hallmark of his innovative and self-reflective style.
© Lee Friedlander - "Self Portrait"
Early Life and Background
Lee Friedlander was born on July 14, 1934, in Aberdeen, Washington, a small logging town. His parents were immigrants; his father was of Swedish descent, and his mother was from Germany. Unfortunately, Friedlander's mother passed away when he was just seven years old, a loss that deeply affected him. His father, a carpenter, raised him in a relatively modest household.
Growing up in Aberdeen, Friedlander developed an early interest in photography. By the age of 14, he was already experimenting with cameras and developing his own photographs. His fascination with the medium was partly fuelled by the rural and industrial landscapes surrounding him, which would later become prominent subjects in his work.
After graduating from high school in 1952, Friedlander decided to pursue photography more seriously. He enrolled at the Art Centre College of Design in Los Angeles, one of the leading institutions for commercial art and design at the time. However, his stay at the college was brief; he attended for only a year before moving to New York City in 1956. The vibrant art scene of New York offered him more opportunities and exposure to the broader photographic community.
Lee Friedlander, New York City, 1962
Impact in photography
In the 21st century, Friedlander continued to experiment with new techniques and technologies, incorporating digital photography into his repertoire. He also explored themes related to aging, mortality, and his personal experiences in projects such as "Sticks and Stones" (2004).
Lee Friedlander's influence extends beyond his images; he has become a revered figure in the photography community. His willingness to challenge traditional notions of composition and his ability to find beauty in the chaos of the street have inspired generations of photographers. His work stands as a testament to the ever-evolving nature of photography and its power to capture the complexity of the human experience.
Saul Leiter
Leiter's work is known for its painterly qualities and the use of colour. He often shot through rainy windows, creating a dreamlike atmosphere in his images. His work challenges traditional notions of street photography.
Leiter's photography career began after he moved to New York City to pursue painting. He found inspiration in the city's street scenes and began capturing them through his camera lens.
Most Famous Work: Leiter's colourful and abstract street scenes, often shot through rainy windows, have gained recognition as a unique and poetic contribution to the genre.
© Saul Leiter - Abstract Street Photography
Early Life and Education
Saul Leiter was born on December 3, 1923, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He was raised in an Orthodox Jewish family, and his father was a well-known Talmudic scholar and a prominent rabbi. Leiter's upbringing was steeped in religious tradition, and there were expectations that he would follow in his father's footsteps. However, Leiter's interests lay elsewhere.
From a young age, Leiter showed a keen interest in art. He was particularly drawn to painting, a passion that would accompany him throughout his life. His early exposure to art books and museums ignited a lifelong fascination with visual expression.
Saul Leiter - Color Photographs of New York
Leiter's formal education began with his religious studies, but his passion for art eventually led him to diverge from this path. In the early 1940s, he attended theological college but decided to leave to pursue his interest in painting. This decision marked a significant turning point in his life.
In 1946, at the age of 23, Leiter moved to New York City, a vibrant centre for art and culture. The move allowed him to immerse himself in the city's dynamic art scene and to pursue his artistic ambitions more freely. In New York, Leiter studied briefly at the New School for Social Research, where he was exposed to various modernist ideas and artistic techniques.
Impact on photography
Leiter's work extended beyond the streets, as he was also known for his fashion photography, contributing to prestigious magazines such as Harper's Bazaar. His fashion images, like his street photography, bore his distinct style, characterized by a blend of spontaneity and a painter's appreciation for composition.
Saul Leiter's legacy has continued to grow posthumously, as his influence on contemporary photographers becomes more apparent. His ability to capture the essence of fleeting moments in the streets of New York, his innovative use of colour, and his unique vision have left an indelible mark on the world of photography. Saul Leiter's work encourages us to see the beauty in the mundane and to appreciate the quiet poetry that exists within the hustle and bustle of urban life.
Daido Moriyama
Moriyama's gritty, high-contrast black and white images capture the energy and intensity of Tokyo Street life. His work is bold and unapologetic, reflecting the pulse of the city.
Moriyama's entry into photography was influenced by his early exposure to William Klein's work. Moriyama started as an assistant to a photographer and quickly developed his signature gritty and high-contrast style.
Most Famous Work: Moriyama's "Provoke" magazine, published in the late 1960s, challenged conventional photography with its gritty, high-contrast images that captured the essence of Tokyo's street life.
© Daido Moriyama “Provoke”
Early Life and Education
Daido Moriyama was born on October 10, 1938, in Ikeda, a small town in Osaka Prefecture, Japan. He grew up during a tumultuous period in Japanese history, with World War II and its aftermath deeply affecting the nation. Moriyama's childhood was marked by the instability and challenges of post-war Japan, which influenced his later work's themes of impermanence and the fragmented nature of reality.
Moriyama's father was a civil engineer, and his family moved frequently due to his father's work. This constant relocation exposed young Moriyama to various landscapes and environments, contributing to his fascination with urban and suburban settings. Despite the disruptions, he developed an early interest in the arts, particularly literature and film, which would later inform his photographic sensibility.
Moriyama's formal education began at Shimizudani High School in Osaka. During his teenage years, he was heavily influenced by American literature and culture, particularly the works of Jack Kerouac and the Beat Generation. This interest in Western culture was somewhat unconventional in Japan at the time and contributed to his rebellious and avant-garde approach to art.
After graduating from high school, Moriyama initially pursued graphic design, enrolling in the Osaka School of Design in 1958. However, he soon realized that his true passion lay in photography. In 1960, Moriyama moved to Tokyo, a city that would become the central subject of much of his work. In Tokyo, he joined the influential photography agency VIVO, where he worked as an assistant to the acclaimed photographer Eikoh Hosoe.
Stray Dog, Misawa, Aomori by Daido Moriyama
Impact on photography: Moriyama's influence extends beyond his work in still photography. He has experimented with filmmaking, and his multimedia installations have been featured in prominent exhibitions worldwide. Despite his rebellious and unconventional approach, Moriyama has received international acclaim and has been honoured with numerous awards for his contributions to photography.
Daido Moriyama's impact on the world of street photography is profound. His unapologetic and daring style has inspired a generation of photographers to embrace a more subjective and visceral approach to capturing the urban experience. Whether capturing the bustling streets of Tokyo or exploring the boundaries of the photographic medium itself, Moriyama's work remains a testament to the power of photography to push artistic boundaries and challenge established norms
Alex Webb
Webb's work is characterized by complex compositions and vibrant colours. He often explores the concept of "the edge," capturing moments where different worlds collide, creating a visual tapestry of human interactions.
Webb's journey into photography began during his time in college, where he studied literature and history. His passion for travel and culture led him to explore the world through the lens of his camera.
Most Famous Work: Webb's project "The Suffering of Light" showcases his captivating use of vibrant colours and intricate compositions, often exploring the complex interplay of cultures at the crossroads of various regions.
© Alex Webb “Suffering of Light”
Early Life and Education
Alex Webb was born on May 5, 1952, in San Francisco, California. He grew up in a family that valued education and the arts. His father, an economist, and his mother, a literature teacher, encouraged intellectual curiosity and artistic exploration. Webb's upbringing in a culturally rich environment fostered his early interest in visual storytelling and the world around him.
During his childhood, the family moved to New England, where Webb spent most of his formative years. The diverse landscapes and vibrant urban scenes of the East Coast would later influence his photographic eye. Webb was particularly drawn to the arts from a young age, exploring painting and literature before ultimately gravitating toward photography.
Webb attended Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts, a prestigious preparatory school known for its rigorous academic curriculum and strong emphasis on the arts. It was at Phillips Academy that Webb first seriously engaged with photography. He began taking photographs and experimenting with the medium, inspired by the works of notable photographers he encountered through his studies.
After graduating from Phillips Academy, Webb went on to study history and literature at Harvard University. While at Harvard, he continued to develop his interest in photography, taking courses at the Carpenter Center for the Visual Arts. During this time, he was introduced to the works of legendary photographers such as Henri Cartier-Bresson and Robert Frank, whose influential styles left a lasting impression on him.
In the early 1970s, Webb studied photography at the Apeiron Workshops in Millerton, New York. These workshops were crucial in shaping his technical skills and artistic vision. Under the guidance of master photographers like Bruce Davidson and Charles Harbutt, Webb honed his ability to capture the complexities of human experience through the lens.
Alex Webb Mexico, Mexico City, 2003
Impact on photography
In addition to his photographic work, Alex Webb has published numerous books, including "La Calle: Photographs from Mexico" (2003) and "The Suffering of Light" (2011), a retrospective of his career. Webb's impact extends beyond his individual images; he is known for creating immersive photographic experiences that invite viewers to engage with the intricate details and narratives within each frame.
Webb's dedication to exploring the world's diverse cultures through his lens, his masterful use of colour, and his ability to create visually rich and layered compositions have solidified his place as a preeminent figure in contemporary photography. His work serves as an inspiration for photographers seeking to capture the complexity and beauty of the human experience through the lens of a vibrant and ever-changing world.
Conclusion
These famous street photographers have left an indelible mark on the world of photography. Each one has a unique vision and approach to capturing the essence of life in public spaces. Whether you're an aspiring street photographer or simply an admirer of the art form, studying their work can provide valuable insights and inspiration for your own photography journey.
In the ever-evolving world of street photography, these photographers serve as a testament to the power of the genre to capture the human experience, one candid moment at a time. Their work continues to inspire and shape the way we perceive and document the world around us.
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