The Secret to Impactful Street Photography: Mastering Planes and Actions!

In a previous blog post, we discussed the planes and actions of the photographed subjects. We discovered that these elements create a visual journey for anyone observing the photograph. As photographers, we should try to make people spend more time looking at our photos and studying the characters in them.

We know that this is a great technique to make our photographs more impactful, and that's why we should practice it to find those images that capture the viewer's attention.

I practice this technique almost daily and I'm going to tell you how I do it.

Knowing Your Equipment

The first thing you need to know is your lens and your shooting distance. Find that distance where, to put it another way, as many people as you consider necessary can fit.

Background Composition

I like the background to be flat and not have any distractions other than the photographed subjects, although this won't always be the case. You can practice with any background and keep it in mind because, as we always say, if you know what you're looking for, it will be much easier to find.

Observing Your Surroundings

Observe the people around you. Usually, I look for at least two or three people to be still and for people to be walking or doing something around them.

Framing and Placement

Finally, position yourself in a place where the photograph makes sense, faces are visible, and everything is well placed in the frame.

Analysis of a Photograph: Workshop in Manila, 2019

Now I want us to analyze this photo I took at a workshop in Manila in December 2019 and talk about the different planes and actions of the children.

Planes and Actions: Deciphering an Image

Foreground

In the foreground, a child wearing a shirt that proclaims "Boxer Never Stops" extends his hand towards the camera, in a gesture that not only interacts with the photographer but also makes him an active protagonist of the scene. His outstretched hand, like an invisible barrier, invites us to stop, to observe carefully what happens behind it. This gesture creates a mystery, an invitation to discover the story hidden in the image.

Midground

Another child, in the midground, wears a shirt that says "Lion City Singapore" and, with a touch of mystery and anonymity, covers his head with a paper bag. This element, seemingly simple, adds a layer of intrigue to the image. Why is he hiding? What secrets does he keep? The paper bag, covering his face, invites us to imagine his story, to create our own interpretations.

Background

In the background, the image comes alive. Several children, with different postures and expressions, compose a dynamic scene full of details. One of them, hanging from a metal structure, provides an element of movement and adventure. Others, sitting or standing, observe or interact with each other, creating a constant flow of action.

Juxtaposition and Triangle of Interest

The image presents an interesting juxtaposition between the three children who stand out: the one who blocks the way with his hand, the one who hides with the paper bag, and the one who hangs from the structure. These three points of interest form an imaginary triangle that attracts the viewer's gaze, guiding them through the composition. The combination of gestures, expressions, and positions creates a visual balance that invites exploration.

Dynamism and Movement

The image is full of dynamism and movement. The hanging child, with his body suspended in the air, conveys a sense of energy and adventure. The different actions of the children, from their interaction with each other to the expressions on their faces, create a visual journey that keeps the viewer interested.

Background and Context

The background of the image, with a metal structure and a tree, is simple and does not distract attention from the children, who become the undisputed protagonists. The lack of superfluous elements allows the story to focus on the actions and expressions of the children, creating a moving visual narrative.

Conclusion

This image, with its dynamic composition, its play of planes, and its juxtaposition of elements, invites us to explore the everyday lives of these children, to imagine their stories, and to reflect on the energy and creativity that characterize them. The photograph offers us a glimpse of a fleeting moment, but leaves us with a sense of mystery and curiosity.