Street Photography Artist Analysis
Chosen Artist:
Joel Meyerowitz
Gallery of Work:
Joél Meyerowitz is considered one of the pioneers in the taking of color photography and has often revisited themes of light, texture, and shape in his works. His photographs are no mere documentation but show how light interacts with human presence in both urban and natural environments. In his landmark series, Cape Light, Meyerowitz investigates the transforming power of natural light, showing it to be fleeting and poetic.
In contrast, his urban photography explores patterns, rhythms, and structures, transforming the chaos of city life into a complex interplay of shapes and textures. Meyerowitz‘s ability to find harmony in complexity is, therefore, a clear testimony to his artistic vision and his skill in recognizing patterns and connections in everyday life.
Characteristics of Style:
- Mastery of Light and Form
Meyerowitz‘s work is really deeply grounded in the exploration of light both as a subject and as a tool. So often, his compositions are prisms that focus on light‘s play on surfaces—creating a conversation between shadow, color, and texture. Whether depicting the amber light of dusk or high noon, Meyerowitz uses light to determine the emotional key of his photos and to reveal the hidden rhythms and patterns of the world around us.
- Patterns and Rhythm
Repeating patterns and visual rhythms are also very common in Meyerowitz’s photographs, which could be presented through architectural elements, signage, or the movement of individuals within a given space. These patterns give structure to his images, converting what may appear as chaotic scenes into coherent compositions. His ability to extract order from the randomness of city life underlines his good observational skills and points to the connection between different elements in the scene.
- Pioneering Use of Color
As one of the early and important advocates of color photography as fine art, Meyerowitz rejected the then-current belief that serious photography should be monochromatic. He uses color not only as an aesthetic choice but as a tool of expression in its own right, capturing with great mastery the subtle shades of his environment in order to produce specific moods and emotions. His use of color is unobtrusive yet deliberate, emphasizing contrasts and harmonies that might otherwise go unnoticed. - Street Photography and Candid Moments
Meyerowitz‘s candid street photography captures the fleeting moments of human interaction and activity. His photos are not just snapshots but perfectly composed scenes, exposing poetry in everyday life. By his observation and recording of such moments, Meyerowitz shows that there is beauty or significance in shared human experiences.
- Large-Format Photography
In addition to dynamic street photography, Meyerowitz has explored the large format for an in-depth look into detail and scale. He uses it to make finely composed images depicting landscapes and cityscapes that invite viewers to immerse themselves into complex layers of texture, light, and form.
Key Quotation:
“Light has become my teacher and mentor in my work. It gives a hint, a suggestion, of what is possible.”
This quote encapsulates Meyerowitz’s philosophy, underscoring the centrality of light in his creative process. Light, for Meyerowitz, is not just a technical element but a guiding force that shapes his artistic vision.
Analysis of one Image:
Color as Emotional Anchor
Meyerowitz’s use of color is essential to the dynamism of this image. The saturated hues—yellows, blues, reds, and whites—anchor the viewer’s attention and mirror the retro feel of New York City in the 1970s.
- Yellow traffic lights and taxis punctuate the scene, reflecting the city’s constant motion and vibrancy.
- The red signs and advertisements create visual focal points, guiding the viewer’s eyes across the photograph while signifying the commercialism and energy of Times Square.
- The blue sky and shadows provide balance, grounding the chaos of the crowded street in a sense of calm contrast.
Composition: Layered and Multi-Dimensional
Meyerowitz’s composition is complex and layered, reflecting the density and vitality of urban life.
- The man on the right in the black hat and suit is walking toward the camera, his face partially shadowed and his cigarette dangling from his lips. His presence grounds the scene, acting as a visual “anchor” that connects the viewer to the image.
- The interaction between the two men on the right adds a sense of narrative—are they exchanging something? Having a conversation? This ambiguity invites curiosity.
- The phone booth on the left is an intriguing detail, with one hand visible inside. This subtle inclusion adds depth and mystery to the photo, point at unseen interactions.
- The seated young man in the brown coat is positioned as an observer within the frame, perhaps mirroring the viewer’s role in taking in the scene.
- The towering buildings, street signs, and advertisements create a sense of depth, drawing the viewer’s eye further into the scene. The layers of signage reflect not just the commercialism of the area but also the overwhelming visual stimuli of the urban environment.
Cultural & Historical Context
After doing some research, we could find out that this image captures New York City during the 1970s, a time of economic decline, cultural upheaval, and artistic experimentation. The grit and density of the scene reflect the challenges of the era—financial struggles, crumbling infrastructure—but also the resilience and energy of its residents. The people in the frame reflect the city’s cultural and racial diversity, highlighting New York as a melting pot of identities and stories. The advertisements and signage emphasize the commercialism of Times Square, even during a period of economic difficulty. The prominence of brands and slogans reflects the city’s role as a hub of capitalism and culture.
Lighting: Natural and Dynamic
The lighting in this image is natural and dynamic, with strong contrasts between light and shadow.
- The bright sunlight highlights certain elements, such as the yellow traffic lights and the man’s cigarette smoke, drawing attention to key focal points.
- The shadows create areas of mystery and depth, particularly in the phone booth and the faces of some individuals. This interplay of light and shadow adds drama to the scene, making it feel cinematic.
Texture & Detail
Meyerowitz captures the textures of the urban environment with precision:
- The reflective glass of the phone booth introduces a sense of distortion and layers, adding complexity to the image.
- The roughness of the pavement and clothing contrasts with the clean lines of the buildings and signs, emphasizing the interplay between the human and built environment.
- The signage and advertisements are packed with detail, offering a snapshot of the visual language of the time. These elements make the image feel alive, as if the viewer could step into the scene.
Emotional Resonance: Energy and Chaos
- The density of people, signs, and activity creates a sense of sensory overload, mirroring what it feels like to walk through a crowded city street.
- Despite the chaos, moments of human connection—like the transaction between the two men—ground the image emotionally, reminding the viewer of the personal stories within the larger urban sprawl.
- For contemporary viewers, the image evokes nostalgia for a bygone era of New York, while its themes of diversity, movement, and urban life remain universal and timeless
Citations:
Joel Meyerowitz, www.joelmeyerowitz.com/. Accessed 13 Dec. 2024.
“Joel Meyerowitz.” International Center of Photography, 15 Dec. 2023, www.icp.org/browse/archive/constituents/joel-meyerowitz?all%2Fall%2Fall%2Fall%2F0.
“Joël Meyerowitz.” Joël Meyerowitz | Photographer | Biography & Filmography – The Darkroom Rumour, www.thedarkroomrumour.com/en/who/meyerowitz-joel. Accessed 13 Dec. 2024.
“History of New York City (1946–1977).” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 18 Oct. 2024, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_New_York_City_(1946%E2%80%931977).
Street Photography Definition
My definition of Street Photography:
Street photography involves capturing those candid moments of everyday life out in public. It showcases, in particular, how people would interact with others and nature unimpeded and spontaneously. This aims to record real life as it happens, often created in cities like streets, parks, and public transport, where the presence of people gives important context to the story. Each photo is an attempt to tell something or convey some message about society, culture, or human life, using professional techniques that creates appealing visual image. Privacy and consent are very important aspects to consider, as photographers deal with the ways their work impacts the people they photograph. Cameras can be used, but many street photographers prefer light and simple equipment to keep themselves unnoticed. Street photography encourages photographers to connect closely with their environment, capturing brief moments that stay with viewers even after the photo is taken.
An example of Street Photography:
Citations:
“A Definition of Street Photography.” Awesome Street Photography Courses, Resources and Workshops, www.dostreetphotography.com/blog/definition-street-photography. Accessed 13 Dec. 2024.
Abstraction: Present
“Sunset Light and Darkness.”
is your updated final evaluation, with references to Ola Kolehmainen and Alexander Jacques:
Final Evaluation for My Triptych Series: Sunset Light and Darkness
Title:
The title of my project is Sunset Light and Darkness.
What were you hoping to create?
I aimed to ponder on the rapid pace of contemporary life, using architectural elements to create a feeling of tranquility. The series uses light and shadow to represent equilibrium between progress and slowing down. The message is effectively conveyed through simplified forms and shifts in natural light.
Did it work? How do you know?
Yes, it was successful. The calm, reflective atmosphere is achieved through the deliberate use of light, shadow, and minimalism.
Which artists have inspired your final presentation and how?
Ola Kolehmainen and Alexander Jacques inspired me through their use of repetition and patterns. Kolehmainen’s geometric rhythm and Jacques’ emphasis on modern architecture’s repeating forms both guided my approach to simplifying and highlighting structure.
Do you think you have successfully explored the theme?
Yes, I combined light, building design, and recurring patterns which illustrates the contrast between the quick pace of life and calm contemplation. This balance is emphasized by my minimalist technique.
What decisions did you make about how to display it?
The triptych depicts a shift from brightness to darkness, by including a gradual progress of light and darkness in each image, representing the change from a fast paced mindset to a reflecting one. This enhances the idea to slow down.
What is personal about your work?
This work reflects my personal desire to escape from pressures and find calm. The architecture represents the society, while the fading light symbolizes the peace found in slowing down.
What do you hope viewers will understand from looking at it?
I hope viewers see the importance of slowing down and to live their life without pressure, finding stillness in the fast pace of life.
If you had more time, what else would you have liked to try?
I’d explore different types of architecture with different kinds of lighting, I would also add more texture and color in order to add emotional depth to the work.
Artists inspirations:
Kolehmainen influenced my use of repetitive forms to create rhythm, while Jacques inspired me to focus on the patterns in modern architecture to reflect structure and stillness.
Experiments:
I experimented with light at different times of day, minimalist techniques, and angles to emphasize the geometric forms of architecture and how they interact with light.
Final Selections:
I selected images that is best in terms of its display of shifting from light to shadow, and the abstract composition of the architecture
Strengths:
The project’s strength is in its simplicity and the interaction of light and abstract architecture. The repetition and patterns create rhythm which achieves the calm I wanted to evoke.
Areas for Improvements:
In future projects, I would like to explore more forms and colors while maintaining the minimalist style.
Contact Sheet 2
All Photos:
Yellow Photos: Initial Selection
The first contact sheet, which is “yellow,” displays a variety of moments where light and structure come together in harmony. In these pictures, my main focus was on creating abstract compositions, aiming to simplify architectural elements in order to emphasize a feeling of tranquility. The ongoing contrast between movement and rest serves as a symbol for our lives in today’s fast-paced world.
Yellow represents hope and possibility in this collection. Every picture was captured with a curious approach, allowing me to play around with viewpoints and angles without striving for flawlessness. These pictures show moments of exploration, capturing interesting designs, shading, and shapes in city settings.
Green Selection: Narrowing Down
From the “yellow” series, I selected 10 images that align more with my idea of embracing relaxation. These “green shots” demonstrate simplicity through clear lines, soft lighting, and subtle tones, creating a peaceful ambiance. Every shot encourages viewers to stop and contemplate.
These choices capture my perspective by highlighting peaceful moments within the city environment, encouraging observers to admire the tranquility.
Red Selection: My Favorites
At last, I chose the top three images in the color “red” that best align with my artistic vision and the message I want to communicate. These images are striking examples of peaceful architecture within the hectic pace of today’s world.
Evaluation and Future Direction
This procedure has revealed that my most powerful shots emphasize light and form in a simplistic manner. Nevertheless, I acknowledge opportunities for improvement. In my upcoming photo sessions, I strive to improve my ability to capture natural moments of tranquility and deepen the emotional impact of my images through the use of organic shapes and gentle lighting.
My future endeavor involves exploring different architectural elements and perspectives with more fluidity. Moreover, I am interested in trying out longer exposure times in order to capture dynamic movement alongside static forms, thereby highlighting the harmony between speed and stillness in our daily lives.
Contact Sheet 1
All Photos:
Yellow Photos: Initial Selection
My first contact sheet in “yellow” depicts a diverse range of instances in which light, form, and structure interact. In these photos, my main focus was on creating abstract compositions, aiming to simplify the architecture and highlight a sense of tranquility. The theme that kept coming up was the contrast between movement and stillness, symbolizing our lives in the midst of constant pressure to keep moving.
In this collection, the color yellow represents possibility. I approached taking these photos with an experimental attitude, giving me the freedom to explore different angles, perspectives, and compositions without worrying about achieving perfection. They capture moments of exploration, where I discovered intriguing patterns, shadows, and shapes in city environments.
Green Selection: Narrowing Down
From the “yellow” contact sheet, I selected 10 images that align more closely with my vision of slowing down. These are my “green shots,” where I found clarity in simplicity. I noticed a common thread of smooth curves, soft light, and muted tones, which all contribute to a sense of tranquility. The calm, deliberate pace of the shots invites the viewer to pause and reflect.
These selections embody my vision by focusing on quiet moments within the urban landscape. Each photograph invites the viewer to slow down and contemplate the beauty in stillness.
Red Selection: My Favorites
Finally, I selected my top three “red” images. These are the most aligned with my artistic vision and the message I want to convey. These photos stood out because they perfectly encapsulate the idea of architectural calmness amidst the chaos of modern life.
Annotated Red Contact Sheet:
- (Image 1) – This shot captures a moment of architectural balance. The clean lines and soft light make it a compelling representation of calm.
- (Image 2) – The simplicity in this image highlights the beauty of minimalism, evoking a sense of quiet contemplation.
- (Image 3) – The curves in this image suggest a fluid motion that has been paused, echoing my message of slowing down.
Evaluation and Future Direction
Through this process, I realized that my best shots emphasize light and form in a minimalist way. However, there are areas for improvement. In future shoots, I plan to focus more on capturing moments of natural stillness and enhancing the emotional depth of the images by experimenting with more organic shapes and softer light.
For my next shoot, I intend to explore more fluid architectural elements and incorporate more varied perspectives. I also want to experiment with longer exposure times to capture more dynamic movement, contrasting it with static forms to further emphasize the balance between speed and stillness.
Abstraction: Photo Set 2
Artist: Alexander Jacques
– frequent utilization of architectural elements like windows, panels, and facade designs to form captivating patterns.
– frequently display a distinct balance, showcasing sharp, neat edges that highlight the flawlessness of city layouts.
– distinctive perspectives transforms ordinary structures into abstract, nearly flat patterns, diminishing the perceived depth of architectural features.
– incorporate only a few colors, usually emphasizing neutral shades like beige, brown, and blue, along with slight changes in tone to draw attention to the architectural features.
– contain a rhythmic quality, with every line, window, or element appearing to reflect the next one, enhancing the feeling of tranquility and peace through even repetition.
Why Abstract?
Jacques’ photos are abstract as they concentrate on patterns rather than the actual buildings. He reduces the specifics of the surrounding setting, enabling the observer to admire the basic shape and flow of the building. His interpretation of common building structures aligns well with my focus on taking time to admire the simplicity of life.
What I like about his artwork:
I admire his style the most for his talent in turning ordinary things into something reflective. The repetitive designs promote extended observation, in line with my goal of assisting individuals in slowing down and contemplating. The balance and accuracy in his photographs evoke a feeling of organization and tranquility that aligns with my goal of producing art that criticizes the hurried pace of contemporary society.
Quotation:
“I believe there is beauty in repetition. When you look closely enough, patterns emerge, and you see something beyond the surface.” – Alexander Jacques
This quote reflects my own belief of discovering beauty in the mundane, particularly through repetitive actions. It corresponds with my wish to inspire individuals to see beneath the surface and contemplate the deeper, frequently overlooked facets of both life and architecture. Jacques’ emphasis on patterns aligns well with my goal of slowing down the viewer’s perception.
Connection to My Vision:
I selected Alexander Jacques because his artwork perfectly showcases the importance of taking the time to admire the organization, symmetry, and flow found in city environments. His use of geometric shapes repeatedly mirrors the repetitive nature of contemporary life, but by focusing on these patterns, he prompts viewers to recognize the tranquility and beauty that lies within that repetition.
I plan to incorporate Jacques’ style into my photography by exploring different perspectives and incorporating repetitive architectural elements. His repetition of geometric designs and sharp edges motivates me to convey the peace and simplicity found in ordinary buildings, strengthening my theme of relaxation. His work shows how simplifying these components can result in a more profound comprehension of our environment.
Image Evaluation:
- Why I chose this image:
I chose this picture because of its impressive repetition and rhythm. The modular forms arranged in a grid-like structure form a mesmerizing pattern that captivates the viewer. It represents the tranquil, reflective essence I aim to communicate in my work. The continuous repetition creates a feeling of endlessness, suggesting the image could stretch further, mirroring the steady rhythm of modern life in a structured way.
- What I find surprising or unusual about this photograph:
The balance between visual complexity and uniformity is the most surprising aspect. Even with the repetitive pattern, the addition of slight shadows and varying tones gives depth and texture, turning what seems like a still surface into something with movement. The combination of flatness and dimensionality in the image creates a feeling of motion, despite it being a stationary architectural surface.
- Formal Element – Repetition:
Repetition is the main formal element present in this image. When looked at together, the individual shapes create a smooth pattern that brings a calming rhythm to the image. The structured and calm feeling is highlighted by the regular design and the play of light and shadow. Repetitive elements in this image serve to decelerate the observer’s gaze, prompting reflection and a profound admiration for the simple beauty found in common, daily structures. It reflects my intention to urge people to take life at a slower pace, focusing on the small details they may miss.
Citations: Matt Hussey | 22 March 2014 2 comments. “Alexander Jacques Photographs Abstract Architectural Patterns.” Dezeen, 9 Feb. 2022, www.dezeen.com/2014/03/22/alexander-jacques-photographs-abstract-architectural-patterns/.
Abstraction Photo Set 1
Artist: Ola Kolehmaine
– Kolehmainen’s works often incorporate reflections, creating distorted and layered perspectives.
-His focus on strong architectural lines and geometric shapes gives his photos a sense of order.
– By isolating architectural features, he reduces the complexity of urban environments to essential forms.
– His photographs play with bold colors and contrasts, balancing warm tones with cool hues.
– While static in form, the play of light and reflections creates an impression of movement, reflecting the passage of time
Why Abstract?
Kolehmainen’s photographs are abstract because they emphasize form over function. They remove the identity of the buildings and focus on the visual beauty of their structure, allowing viewers to interpret the images on a deeper level.
What I like about his artwork:
I appreciate his style because he uses light and reflection to turn ordinary architecture into something amazing. His use of symmetry enhances a sense of order and balance, allowing the viewer to find harmony in the composition.It serves as a reminder that simplicity can hold beauty and tranquility. Even though his photos are abstract, they convey a powerful feeling of calm and reflection that resonates with my own perspective.
Quotation:
“I’m interested in the way light plays on surfaces and how it can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.” – Ola Kolehmainen
This quote resonates with me because it captures my own desire to slow down and see the beauty in the everyday. It reinforces my vision of using photography to offer viewers a moment of pause, a space to reflect.
Connection to My Vision:
I picked Kolehmainen because his abstract portrayal of buildings reflects my aim of causing the viewer’s perception to decelerate. He simplifies the urban landscape into basic shapes, symbolizing the need to live at a slower pace.
I will incorporate reflections and geometric patterns into my photography, inspired by his style, with an emphasis on calmness and simplicity. Kolehmainen’s talent for discovering tranquility amid disorderly surroundings motivates me to delve into this in my architectural photography. Additionally, I aim to explore symmetry in my compositions just like what he did, using balanced elements to create harmony and a sense of order. I hope to evoke a feeling of serenity and cohesion, further enhancing the calmness and simplicity I seek to portray in my work.
Image Evaluation:
- Why I chose this image:
The repeating lines and grids, shining in a warm, almost golden color, drew me to this picture. The stacking of reflections within the building creates intricacy and depth, producing a feeling of peace despite the complex features. This picture aligns with my concept of pausing, with its detailed patterns prompting viewers to closely examine its intricacies.
- What I find surprising or unusual about this photograph:
The way the trees’ reflection merges nature and structure with the architectural grid in the background astonishes me in this picture. The unexpected blend of organic forms and rigid lines in the image evokes a feeling of balance between the natural world and human-created environments.
- Formal Element – Repetition:
Repetition is the most prominent aspect of form in this photograph. The organized and rhythmic layout of windows and beams dominates the structure. The consistent alignment of the lines and shapes creates a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere in the image. The repeated pattern, along with the reflection of trees, highlights my idea of slowing down, urging viewers to pause and appreciate the details in the layout.
Citations:
Artnet.Com, www.artnet.com/artists/ola-kolehmainen/3. Accessed 13 Oct. 2024.
Blog Post 8: Statement of Intent
Statement of Intent:
“Slower, even more”
The message of my work will be to reflect on the fast pace of the modern society. With the advancement of technology, the pace at which people live their lives also becomes more rapid. There will be individuals who eagerly want success and end up losing themselves. I want the audience to learn to enjoy the long process of life and slow down the pace instead of going with the flow. I hope the audience can understand that things in life don’t necessarily need to have meaning, so it is unnecessary to have a lot of pressure in fast-paced times, we need to live a carefree life. For inspiration, I will try to find a photographer who explores architecture and its calmness with simplified composition. I want to find photographs that explore different types of motions. We cannot afford to give ourselves constant mental exhaustion because of the current society. In more time, we should put down the stone in our hearts and focus on living every day well.
Citations:
“Minimalism Movement Overview.” The Art Story, www.theartstory.org/movement/minimalism/. Accessed 20 Sept. 2024.
“Light and Space Movement Overview.” The Art Story, www.theartstory.org/movement/light-and-space/. Accessed 20 Sept. 2024.
“The Art of Rhythm in Photography: Creating Movement and Flow.” PPS Innovature, 7 Dec. 2023, pps.innovatureinc.com/the-art-of-rhythm-in-photography/.
Cherner, Jessica. “13 Stunning Examples of Reflective Architecture.” Architectural Digest, Architectural Digest, 24 Jan. 2022, www.architecturaldigest.com/gallery/stunning-examples-reflective-architecture.
Unsplash. “50,000+ Abstract Architecture Pictures: Download Free Images on Unsplash.” 50,000+ Abstract Architecture Pictures | Download Free Images on Unsplash, unsplash.com/s/photos/abstract-architecture. Accessed 20 Sept. 2024.
Ryan. “Using Color in Photography to Add Depth and Meaning – Signature Edits.” Signature Edits – Photography Presets & Marketing Tools For Photographers, 8 Sept. 2022, www.signatureedits.com/using-color-in-photography-to-add-depth-and-meaning/.
Blog Post 7: Mindmap
Citations:
“Minimalism Movement Overview.” The Art Story, www.theartstory.org/movement/minimalism/. Accessed 20 Sept. 2024.
“Light and Space Movement Overview.” The Art Story, www.theartstory.org/movement/light-and-space/. Accessed 20 Sept. 2024.
“The Art of Rhythm in Photography: Creating Movement and Flow.” PPS Innovature, 7 Dec. 2023, pps.innovatureinc.com/the-art-of-rhythm-in-photography/.
Cherner, Jessica. “13 Stunning Examples of Reflective Architecture.” Architectural Digest, Architectural Digest, 24 Jan. 2022, www.architecturaldigest.com/gallery/stunning-examples-reflective-architecture.
Unsplash. “50,000+ Abstract Architecture Pictures: Download Free Images on Unsplash.” 50,000+ Abstract Architecture Pictures | Download Free Images on Unsplash, unsplash.com/s/photos/abstract-architecture. Accessed 20 Sept. 2024.
Ryan. “Using Color in Photography to Add Depth and Meaning – Signature Edits.” Signature Edits – Photography Presets & Marketing Tools For Photographers, 8 Sept. 2022, www.signatureedits.com/using-color-in-photography-to-add-depth-and-meaning/.