I came into the Eric Kim Intermediate Street Photography Workshop expecting to work on the style which I was comfortable with at that time: light and shadow. Although I believe I have an interesting set of photos after shooting for about 6 months, I think that this weekend workshop changed everything I thought I knew about my style.
Street photography with a flash was a style I dared not to try because of it's straight up approach and intimidating premise. Not only that, the results I expected to yield was minimal story line and "reaction shots". What I've learned most at the Eric Kim Intermediate Street Photography Workshop was that to truly find your style, you must first identify and try out the different styles for yourself.
I'm aware of my reserved personality. During the first day of shooting Eric, Mattei and I formed a literal FLASH mob. And I believe they took three times as much photos as I did. I was still a non-believer of the potentials of the flash. My epiphany was brought about by a photo I shot of two girls looking at prayers and offerings hanging from a tree. This street photo was definitely not a reaction photo and the moment I saw it on the LCD my mind was struck with a thought. There was so much emotion towards something and the flash was only there to highlight the moment and not disturb it in any way. The mere fact that I was shooting with two highly enthusiastic and talented individuals only inspired me to push even further.
Street photography with a flash was a style I dared not to try because of it's straight up approach and intimidating premise. Not only that, the results I expected to yield was minimal story line and "reaction shots". What I've learned most at the Eric Kim Intermediate Street Photography Workshop was that to truly find your style, you must first identify and try out the different styles for yourself.
I'm aware of my reserved personality. During the first day of shooting Eric, Mattei and I formed a literal FLASH mob. And I believe they took three times as much photos as I did. I was still a non-believer of the potentials of the flash. My epiphany was brought about by a photo I shot of two girls looking at prayers and offerings hanging from a tree. This street photo was definitely not a reaction photo and the moment I saw it on the LCD my mind was struck with a thought. There was so much emotion towards something and the flash was only there to highlight the moment and not disturb it in any way. The mere fact that I was shooting with two highly enthusiastic and talented individuals only inspired me to push even further.
After that shot, I took another few shots that simply blew my mind and proved to me the reality of this one quote by Gary Winogrand:
"The photograph should be more interesting or more beautiful than what was photographed."
"The photograph should be more interesting or more beautiful than what was photographed."
The mere fact that I photographed a parking attendant who just sat down at his post doesn't really sound like an interesting photo opportunity but when you look at the photograph, it speaks of totally something different. I now believe that a flash is not the main tool for this style, it is still your eye. Once you see a potential opportunity with the following elements: character, setting and plot, the flash is simply there to highlight the moment and bring out the emotion and story line, not from the subject but from the viewer.
I received so much good feedback form people I respect and look up to like Ibarionex Parello and Rinzi Ruiz. Both amazing photographers whom I met at the first workshop who use light and shadow. And every one was so supportive that I really felt that sense of community that Eric has built.
A shoutout to every one at the workshop whom I believe is on their way to develop their own style as well. I appreciate every single one of you and I will remain inspired by the photos of everyone. I can only pour out so much gratitude to each one.
Todd Hatakeyama for the opportunity to use a flash and his tremendous generosity at every workshop.
Bo Lorentzen for the tips on effectively using a flash and for sharing his experiences.
Mattei Batruch for coming all the way from Switzerland with his amazing personality.
Dana Barsuhn for all the feedback and encouragement. Also by being a great FILM photographer, he shared his patience and expertise.
Justin Alters for having such a fresh perspective and fun personality.
Nanette Ricaforte for the willingness to learn and infectious smile.
Elizabeth Wang-Lee for the kind words that really motivated me.
Ibarionex Parello for remaining humble and approachable despite being the light master that he is.
Jordan Dunn for the energy and fresh personality.
Rinzi Ruiz for being a great overall photographer and friend.
Eric's Mom for the awesome gourmet food: two workshops in a row.
Eric's sister Anna and girlfriend Cindy because I think that by him having such an amazing support system, he is able to do what he loves and in turn inspire me and my fellow participants.
And of course to Eric for all the knowledge, enthusiasm and for being a great mentor to all of us.