=MyPrivateParty has one of the most interesting approaches to street photography. I personally look forward to his new images as much, if not more than those of cweeks. His portrayal of streetlife is usually perfectly captured on a 'full frame' camera body, and what those of old would call a 'film negative'




Name and geographical location.


Call me J.


How long have you been shooting (in total) and when did you start shooting Street?


It's kind of a long story, but the short of it is; I started shooting in late 2004-early 2005. That's when I got very interested in photography in general. I started shooting street in October of 2005. So, not long after becoming genuinely interested in photography, I started to shoot street.


What inspired you to shoot street?


I always admired and appreciated the genre of street photography and photo journalism. I looked up to those who did it. I guess one day I figured, "Hey, they can do it, why can't I?"


What goes through your mind while you explore the streets?


It's hard to say what exactly goes through my mind. A lot of things I guess. It's like a hunt, constantly scanning the street looking for moments and scenes to capture. Also, listening (even though my hearing is quite bad) to the sounds of the street. I can't tell you how many times I've been drawn to a photo opportunity by a sound I hear while walking around.


At first did you feel comfortable shooting people?


Yes. I had already had a lot of experience shooting people by that time, being that I'm such an avid firearms advocate. I kid.
No. Actually it was quite unnerving and risky feeling to start with. Even still it feels like that at times.


How did you overcome that fear (or) Do you have any advice for people looking to overcome that fear?


I can't say that I have ever completely overcome the fear of taking a photos of strangers without their permission. The fear of being harassed is almost constantly in the back of my mind, however, it's not the same kind of fear as I had when I first started shooting street.
There is of course always the possibility of someone giving you a hard time for taking their photo, but I realized a long time ago, as afraid as you may be to take a photo of a complete stranger without their permission and being "caught" and subsequently confronted....almost 99% of those people you will be taking photos of are just as scared to confront you about it. Shooting street has taught me to put myself in other peoples' shoes more than anything else I've ever endeavored. That's what really helps when doing this kind of photography I've found, is to do just that, put yourself in other peoples' shoes. That is my advice for those who encounters the "fears" or as I'd prefer to call it< shyness of taking strangers' photos.


Can you show us your favorite street photograph, (from your gallery) and explain why it is your


That's hard for me to say. So many of my photos I like, but at the same time, it's very easy for me to pick them completely apart and find all the flaws. I will show you what I think is my favorite photo here on dA simply for the fact that it is a very good representative of a "decisive moment" in my eyes. This one sticks out in my mind because it is the perfect example of being in the right place at the right time and being prepared.


Can you show us your favorite street photograph, (from ANY dA gallery) and explain why it is your


It's really hard for me to pick one particular street photo that is my favorite here on dA as there is so much great stuff, but I will go with my gut, and show one of my all time favorite photos here, since almost day one here at DA for me, however it's not street, it's photo journalism (which is street's cousin, at least, thats how I look at it). The brutally honest portrayal of reality here is what really makes this photo hit home for me. The content and subject overpower my emotions and thoughts so much that it's no matter.
Funny enough, I'm just looking at it and completely forgot that it was you who gave that photo a DD. I worked a long time to get someone to DD that photo.


On the street, what is your favorite subject?


That question seems a little bit goofy, but I will entertain it with a big fat "ANYTHING THAT CATCHES MY EYE"


What is the best tip you can give to others?


As cliche and redundant as this may sound; Take a lot of pictures. Keep your camera with you as much as possible (aka all the time) otherwise you won't be able to take lots of pictures. Also, refer back to Question #5 for my thoughts on dealing with being too shy to take photos etc..


Favorite photographer and why?


I don't have one particular favorite photographer. I actually glean most of my inspiration from photographers such as the ones showcased on Magnum In Motion
Of course, the greats such as Henri Cartier-Bresson I will never grow tired of.


Anything else (or nothing else) you may think is relevant?

I'm going to bed now







- Thanks J.