Category: Street Photography

Overcoming Your Expectations

Self Analyzing, Skateboarding, Street Photography

There I was, taking pictures and having the time of my life at a newly discovered skate park. Then, I finally made my way up to the platform of the locally elevated train. Doing what I love. With no interruptions and an open-ended timeline. All was well. I had kicked my early morning anxiety to the curb and spent the day enjoying the sun and the warm weather. All was well until I uploaded the day’s pictures and began to scroll. Suddenly, despite having a high number of excellent shots. I decided to focus on the images that failed to resonate with me. Despite being non-commissioned, just for fun excursions to places foreign to me. I harped on my misdoings. “You’ve been a photographer since! XYZ How could you not notice that branch?” and other self-deprecating judgments. It reminded me of how hard I can be on myself. Wondering, who was that person who put, “You have to be %!00 perfect %110 of the time?” “Why am I always afraid to make mistakes?” Whatever it is or was going on. I must change, adapt, and accept my mistakes while learning from them.

Water, Water, Everywhere

Documentary, Innosence, Street Photography, Memories

Growing up in Jackson Heights, Queens. The nearest swimming pool was in what seemed like a far off world. Without the money, or knowledge of the transit system. We were often left to our own devices and local fire hydrants when cooling off in the hot Summer sun. The joy of jumping in and out of the hydrants canon. Applying a hollowed out plastic bottle to better direct the waters flow. Or better yet, giving the passing cars a thorough soaking. Hoping that one unprepared driver would drive past with his guard and windows down. The childlike excitement of soaking the interior and occupants of an automobile felt as if it would last forever.

Stops Along the Way.

Commentary, Culture, Editorial, Exploring, Finding your Zen, Location Shooting, Narrative, Street Photography, Travel, Travel Photography

If you’ve been paying attention, there’s this phrase by some guy named Emerson, that been passed around that says, “It’s not the destination. It’s the journey that matters.” Emerson was also quoted as saying, “Always do what you’re afraid to do.” Not being a philosopher myself. I have often sought understanding through travel and exploring different cultures, different ideologies, and economic imbalances. My experiences traveling (To another continent or just down the hall.) and interactions with people have educated me and informed me. Eliminating many prejudices and stereotypes, I might have had if I’d stayed within my bubble. And for that, I am forever grateful.

Day Trip to Richmond

Canon R6 Mark II Mirrorless, Damion Photo, Exploring, Street Photography, Travel, Travel Photography

This weekend, for the first time in more than ten years. I took a trip to Richmond to attend a long-time friends inclusion in an intimate record show. Aside from seeing this beautiful friend, getting the stuffing hugged out of me, and meeting her husband. I enjoyed nourishing food, walked the streets of a diverse city and took lots of pictures. On the right is the restaurant, delicatessen where we started our day.

The Early Bird Captures the Shot.

Canon R6 Mark II Mirrorless, Color, Dramatic Lighting, Finding your Zen, Landscape Photography, Location Shooting, Long Exposures, Manual Mode, Night Photography, Street Photography

During a recent exchange with a fellow early riser. We shared our appreciation for the pre-dawn moments when one can appreciate a sense of solitude, while enjoying that quickly diminishing moment, when the air feels fresh, as it entices your senses. Whether it was coming home from a night of debauchery or leaving your home for that long commute. Whatever the reason. These moments are to be cherished. Below is a capture taken during my now daily morning walk.

March 1st, 5:50 am Canon R6 Mark II RF 24-105 F4 30.0 f22 ISO 200

In Case You’re Wondering

Canon R6 Mark II Mirrorless, Industrial Photography, Storytelling, Street Photography

I took this while going for an extended walk today. While most of my street photography often lacks that human element. I find the ones that do, add an extra element of storytelling. Filling a void and adding personality to the image. I’ve noticed that the majority of my photos outside of studio work are shot of people walking away. That element can be due to future sales of prints. Personally, I find that aspect adds more to the story. Allowing the observer to better ecersize their imagination. .That, or I’m not up for being punched in the head, or being angrily questioned as to why I just took their picture.

Pre-Dawn Outing

Canon R6 Mark II Mirrorless, Finding your Zen, Soft Light, Solitude, Street Photography, Sunrise

As a photographer, and in general, dawn and dusk are my favorite times of the day. My favorite time to breathe what’s left of our fresh air. My favorite time to watch the colors change due to the rising or setting sun. Both are somewhat inconvenient, considering I usually wake up with the sun and enjoy dinner as it develops. However, with today’s rising temperature and a sense of drive. I could leave the apartment, return without waking my better half, and enjoy a moment of complete solitude while capturing a few unguarded moments.

Photographers Rights

Industrial Photography, Photographers Rights, Street Photography, Travel, Travel Photography

‘I’ve been taking pictures for decades now, however, since the tragedy of 9/11. I’ve been questioned, detained, and told what I could not photograph countless times. Whether it be a police intervention, a property owner, or a security guard, I’ve gotten used to being told, “You can’t take pictures of this.” Or, “What are you doing here?” “What are you taking pictures of, or for?” And “How long do you plan on being here?” It’s something I’ve become used to and somewhat expected. That said, there are times when I ignore or straight-up challenge their demands. That’s why when, earlier this week, I was told by a security guard that I was forbidden to photograph a building on a public street. I chose to explain my rights instead of getting pissed and telling them to “fuck off!” I explained to them my rights and how their demands might be best served in North Korea or some other dictatorship. When I got home, I decided to go online to learn my rights as a photographer. Before my next outing, I plan on printing my rights in the likely chance I’m questioned, held, stopped, or informed about what I can and cannot document. As a fellow photographer, I recommend you do the same.

A.C.L.U. Photographer Rights


Train of Thought

Canon R6 Mark II Mirrorless, Finding your Zen, Health, Landscape Photography, Street Photography

With the wife at the office and my wanting to take advantage of the warm weather and a barely baptized new camera. I carefully navigated the sidewalk cracks and pot holes, and walked my way down to Dolly Madison road to attempt some shots I’ve been wanting to take since arriving in the area. Arriving at the edge of the great divide. I took to time to steady myself and compose the area I wanted to focus on. With my main focus on the soon to arrive train and two towering buildings in the foreground serving as bookmarks. I waited for my photo version of Moby Dick to come into view. This photo opportunity served several purposes, as the day marked my longest solo walk since my diagnosis, capturing a shot I’ve long envisioned, and later discovering the route to a rewarding nature walk.

Once Upon a Tripod

Long Exposures, Night Photography, Street Photography

I’m not sure what made me head back into freezing temps, but whatever it was, I brought a more relaxed attitude. I might not have achieved my ultimate goal or even understood why I was having issues with taking long exposures in manual or bulb mode. I just wanted to take some pictures of the brisk night sky. Below is one of my favorites from my few minutes in the dark.