Why Street photography

Like many, when I first heard of street photography, I assumed it was probably illegal—or at the very least, morally dubious enough to get you tarred and feathered by the general public.

But I kept coming back to it. Mostly because of how accessible it is. If I lived in one of the more picturesque corners of the country, you’d be getting spammed with landscape photos. But I don’t—street photography is right here on my doorstep. I didn’t need to move to Scotland to scratch the photography itch.

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Doing the Research

So I started digging. What is street photography, legally and ethically? What could actually get me in trouble? What’s allowed, what’s respectful, and what’s definitely not?

I took time to understand the dos and don’ts—legally and morally—and made sure I was comfortable with the boundaries I set for myself.

Due diligence done, I thought I’d give it a crack. I mean, what’s the worst that could happen?

(Aside from being tarred and feathered, of course.)

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The First Steps

Man, it was intimidating.

Trying to capture photos that weren’t unflattering. That were candid. That told honest stories without crossing personal or ethical lines. Turns out, it was way more challenging than snapping a dramatic sunset.

But it didn’t take long to start connecting with people. Over the last 10 months, I’ve met some of Southampton’s more colourful characters and heard their stories. I never expected I’d be sharing coffee with total strangers. I’ve grown.

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Something Bigger Than Me

I learned that if I approached people with honesty, kindness, and respect, I could move through the city and capture their world. People were more interesting than I’d ever realised. And together, they form this vibrant, unpredictable, living organism that is Southampton.

Now, the regulars in town recognise me.

And instead of coming at me red-faced with a tin of tar under one arm and a confused chicken under the other, they smile. They say hello. They ask what I’ve been photographing that day—with genuine curiosity.

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And Just Like That…

I realise I’m not just documenting the city anymore.

I’m a part of it.