Lessons from Vivian Maier's Street Photography, Vol. 1
Vivian Maier was an American photographer who is now considered a master of street photography. Her work is distinguished by her ability to capture candid moments of everyday life with a remarkable sense of composition. Despite the fact that she worked as a nanny for most of her life, her photographic output has earned her a reputation as one of the most important photographers of the 20th century.
Maier's approach to photography was to capture the world around her as she saw it, without any staging or manipulation. Her images offer an unfiltered glimpse into the lives of ordinary people, often showing moments of humor, tragedy, and humanity. But what makes her work stand out is her remarkable sense of composition, which is a fundamental element of great photography.
Composition in Photography
Composition is the art of arranging elements within a frame to create a visually compelling image. The key elements of composition include lines, shapes, patterns, textures, colors, and contrast. A well-composed image will draw the viewer's eye to the subject and create a sense of balance and harmony. Maier's photographs demonstrate a mastery of composition, which is why her work continues to inspire photographers today.
Candid Portraiture in Photography
Candid portraiture is the art of capturing people in unposed and natural situations. The aim is to capture the subject's personality and character, rather than presenting a staged or artificial version of themselves. Candid portraiture is a difficult skill to master, as it requires the photographer to be quick, intuitive, and sensitive to the subject's mood and demeanor. Maier's portraits are a testament to her ability to capture people in their natural state, with a sense of empathy and compassion.
Tips for Incorporating Maier's Techniques in Today's Photography
While Maier's work was created in the mid-20th century, her techniques and approach to photography are still relevant today. Here are a few tips for photographers looking to incorporate her techniques into their own work:
Keep your camera with you at all times: Maier was known for carrying a camera with her everywhere she went, which allowed her to capture the world around her as it unfolded. By keeping your camera with you at all times, you'll be ready to capture those unexpected moments that make for great photographs.
Be observant: Maier had a keen eye for detail, which allowed her to capture the small moments that others might overlook. By being observant, you'll be able to spot those unique moments that make for great photographs.
Use natural light: Maier's photographs were often shot in natural light, which gave her images a sense of authenticity and warmth. By using natural light, you can create a similar effect in your own photographs.
Shoot from different angles: Maier's compositions often included interesting angles and perspectives, which added depth and interest to her images. By experimenting with different angles, you can create unique and compelling photographs.
Don't be afraid to get close: Maier's portraits often captured the subject up close, which allowed her to capture their emotions and expressions in a powerful way. By getting close to your subject, you can create a similar effect in your own photographs.
I’d also recommend picking up a copy of Vivian Maier's Street Photography book as a form of inspiration and research. It offers a masterclass in composition and candid portraiture. Her work continues to inspire photographers today, and her techniques are still relevant in today's modern landscape of photography. By incorporating her techniques into your own work, you can create images that capture the beauty and authenticity of everyday life.
Here are a few examples of my own work that was inspired by Vivian.
