Set Subject for Judging: Street Photography
Definition
Street photography is a genre that captures candid moments in public spaces, often focusing on the everyday lives of people, interactions, and environments in urban settings. It thrives on spontaneity, relying on the photographer’s ability to observe and document real-life scenes without intrusion or staging. Street photography is characterised by its raw, unfiltered nature, where ordinary moments are elevated into powerful narratives through composition, timing, and light. Though often centred on human subjects, it can also include architecture, signs, shadows, and other elements of the urban landscape. This genre challenges photographers to see beauty and meaning in the mundane, offering a reflection of society, culture, and the complexities of life in public spaces. A key aspect is its storytelling potential, where images provoke thought, emotion, or social commentary, making the ordinary appear extraordinary.
This genre typically emphasises a documentary or journalistic approach, but it also allows for artistic expression and interpretation, pushing boundaries between reality and art.