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My Unhealthy Obsession with Street Photography

Villagers from Phan Tiet

A Decade of Transformation

In my previous life, I was an international teacher with relentless wanderlust. For 12 years I was fortunate enough to live, work, and travel in over 40 countries. Each interaction with locals and every journey abroad was a lesson in adaptability and resilience.

I learned to navigate unfamiliar environments with confidence and curiosity. Moving out of my comfort zone to immerse myself in foreign cultures, and embarking upon the unknown became an exciting (and challenging) daily event.

World travel transformed everything I understood about humanity. Travel opened my mind to new ways of thinking, and I’ve gained an appreciation for the interconnectedness of our global community as one would anticipate.

What I did not know was the obsession that would soon overtake me.

Capturing the Essence of the City

From the the bustling markets of Istanbul to the kaleidoscopic commuters in Hong Kong, my shutter ricocheted with reckless abandon to capture those raw, unfiltered moments that fill our daily lives.

Every image tells a story, whether it’s the village boys from Phan Thiet, Gaudi’s architectural marvels in Barcelona, or the bà ngoại (grandmother) navigating her way through the streets of Saigon.

In street photography, each frame becomes a canvas that illustrates the essence of urban life with light, shadows, and composition. The artist, journalist, and photographer in me was intrigued, and my camera became my constant companion. There was no turning back.

I knew I was in trouble when I broke my arm while trekking in the Kaçkar Mountains. Not because I broke my arm, that’s another story! Despite being unable to use my camera, I did my almighty best to enjoy being present and savor the majestic scenery. Yet my photographer’s eye would not rest. My mind raced to etch the visions into my memory, and I cringed each time I passed a shot I was not able to take.

That’s when the realization hit; I am officially obsessed with street photography.

What exactly is Street Photography, anyway?

It’s complicated! But it doesn’t have to be.

The concept of street photography is a bit controversial. The definition varies depending on who you talk to. According to StudioBinder, street photography is the practice of taking photos of everyday life in everyday environments. Street photography is an authentic approach to documenting those seemingly small, but telling moments in the human experience that ultimately become art.

About this blog

This blog is a celebration of all things photography; in particular, street photography. You’ll find informative resources,  inspiring stories, and helpful tips.

The fun I’ve had with street photography over the years fuels my passion to replicate the experience in Western North Carolina. Be sure to join the WNC Photo Walks Facebook group for details on upcoming workshops and street photography tours in Western North Carolina. 

Who knows, street photography could be your next obsession!

Your turn!

I’d love to hear your comments! What is YOUR experience with street photography, if any? I can’t wait to hear from you!

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