The Evolution of Street Photography

From Film to Digital

Street photography has always been about capturing the essence of everyday life, the candid moments that tell a story. The old masters of this genre, such as Henri Cartier-Bresson and Vivian Maier, were able to create timeless images using film cameras. But why was it possible for them to achieve such greatness with what we might now consider outdated technology? And why did these same pioneers eagerly embrace digital photography when it became available? We'll look at some of the reasons behind this evolution in this article.

Capturing people's moments, however dramatic or mundane, is the essence of street photography; a record of people's behaviours, styles and attitudes at any one time, in an aim to preserve for posterity the essence of humanity throughout the ages.

The Golden Age of Film Photography

One of the primary reasons the old masters could use film cameras so effectively was their quiet operation. Unlike today’s digital SLR cameras, which can sometimes be quite noisy, film cameras, especially rangefinders (for instance, Leicas, Contaxes and Nikon rangefinders), were almost silent. This allowed photographers to capture candid moments without drawing attention to themselves. The subtle click of a film camera was far less intrusive, making it easier to blend into the background and capture genuine, unposed moments.

In the mid-20th century, the pace of life was generally slower. There were fewer people on the streets, and less action to keep track of. This slower pace allowed photographers more time to focus on, well, focusing. They could take their time to compose their shots, ensuring that each frame was meticulously crafted, which was important when you had limited shots before you had to change your film over, and no rapid fire motor winder (of course, you could have, but they were noisy and drew attention to you, and so were not favoured). This deliberate approach is evident in the work of photographers like Cartier-Bresson, who was known for his “decisive moment” philosophy.

The urban bustle of Carnaby Street, multi-cultural and multi-faceted, captured in a single image.

It's true, also, that back then, people were less suspicious and paranoid about surveillance on the level we see today (despite such institutions as the Stasi, the KGB, and McCarthyism hunting out Communists in the USA). The sight of someone wandering around with a camera was not seen as particularly unusual or threatening, since there was no subtler alternative, while today a person wandering around with a "real" camera around their neck draws attention to themselves. Added to that, in today’s world, with heightened concerns about privacy and security, people are just simply more likely to be wary of someone taking their photograph. This increased suspicion can make street photography more challenging, as subjects may react negatively or even confront the photographer.

The mid-20th century is often romanticised as a more innocent time. There was a sense of trust and openness that made street photography more accessible. People were generally more willing to be photographed, and there was a sense of community that made it easier for photographers to engage with their subjects. This openness is reflected in the candid, intimate moments captured by photographers like Maier, whose work offers a glimpse into the everyday lives of ordinary people.

The gentleman in the light, walking along the South Bank near Gabriel's Wharf, stood out for me with his more grizzled appearance and slightly shabbier clothes. What was his story? Why was he there? Pictures sometimes raise more questions than they answer.

The old masters had a deep understanding of their tools and the craft of photography. They knew how to manipulate light, composition, and timing to create powerful images. This mastery allowed them to work effectively with the limitations of film, turning constraints into creative opportunities. The process of developing film also required a level of patience and skill that contributed to the overall artistry of their work.

The Shift to Digital Photography

At the end of the day, a camera is a tool to enable the photographer’s vision. The old masters understood this, and they were among the first to embrace digital photography when it became available. Digital cameras offered a level of convenience and flexibility that film cameras simply couldn’t match. With digital, photographers could take hundreds of shots without worrying about running out of film, and they could review their images instantly, allowing for immediate feedback and adjustments.

Relaxing after a hard day at work. The Southwark Tavern, by Borough Market, in Southeast London.

One of the key advantages of digital cameras is that they allow the tool to get out of the way of the photographer’s vision. With features like full auto mode, digital cameras can handle many of the technical aspects of photography, freeing the photographer to focus on composition and storytelling. This ease of use is particularly beneficial for street photography, where moments are fleeting and there is little time to fiddle with settings.

Modern digital cameras, especially mirrorless models, are often smaller and more discreet than their film counterparts. This makes them ideal for street photography, where being unobtrusive is crucial. There was a crossover period where dSLRs were simply too clunky and noisy to be an effective alternative, and compact digital photography had not caught up in quality terms to film. With the range of extremely capable compacts, let alone mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras, with sensors sometimes equalling the size of 35mm film frames, there's no practical reason not to be shooting digital. And, a smaller camera is less likely to draw attention, allowing the photographer to capture candid moments without disturbing the scene. This discretion is a significant advantage in today’s world, where people are more suspicious of photographers.

In the age of smartphones, people are used to seeing others take photos with their phones. Thus, someone using a “real” camera can easily attract suspicion. This paradoxically makes digital cameras like the Ricoh GR-III more suitable for street photography, as they can be less conspicuous than film cameras, despite being a “real” camera. The ability to blend in and go unnoticed is a valuable asset for any street photographer.

Family fun at Gabriel's Wharf, on the South Bank. A festival was open in the centre of the square and many families were out to enjoy the atmosphere of the fair.

Digital photography has benefited from rapid technological advancements. Modern digital cameras come equipped with features like image stabilisation, high ISO performance, and advanced autofocus systems. These features make it easier to capture sharp, well-exposed images in a variety of conditions. For street photographers, this means more opportunities to get the shot, even in challenging lighting or fast-moving situations.

While most film photography these days is scanned to digital rather than wet-printed in a darkroom, and so benefits from a significant amount of digital post-processing capabilities, the ability to edit and enhance images in post-processing is still more flexible with digital-first images. Software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop allows photographers to adjust exposure, contrast, and colour balance with precision. This flexibility can be particularly useful for street photography, where lighting conditions can be unpredictable. The ability to fine-tune images after the fact ensures that photographers can achieve their desired look and feel.

Digital photography provides instant feedback, which is invaluable for learning and improvement. Photographers can review their shots immediately and make adjustments on the fly. This instant gratification accelerates the learning process, allowing photographers to experiment and refine their techniques more quickly than with film. For street photographers, this means being able to adapt to different environments and situations more effectively.

Embracing the Future While Honouring the Past

While the old masters of street photography achieved greatness with film cameras, they were also quick to adopt new technologies that enhanced their ability to capture the world around them. Digital photography offers numerous advantages, from convenience and flexibility to discretion and ease of use. However, the principles that guided the old masters—patience, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of their tools—remain just as relevant today.

A couple shares a special moment at the end of one of the piers along the South Bank of the Thames.

For modern street photographers, the key is to find the right balance between embracing new technologies and honouring the timeless techniques of the past. Whether you choose to shoot with a film camera or a digital one, the most important thing is to stay true to your vision and continue to explore the world with curiosity and passion.

Many contemporary street photographers adopt a hybrid approach, using both film and digital cameras depending on the situation. This approach allows them to enjoy the best of both worlds. Film can offer a unique aesthetic and a sense of nostalgia, while digital provides the convenience and flexibility needed for fast-paced street photography. By understanding the strengths and limitations of each medium, photographers can choose the right tool for the job and expand their creative possibilities.

The digital age has also transformed the way photographers share their work and connect with others. Online platforms like Instagram, Flickr, and photography forums provide opportunities to showcase images, receive feedback, and engage with a global community of photographers. This sense of community can be incredibly motivating and inspiring, encouraging photographers to continue honing their craft and exploring new ideas.

Ice cream - de luxe. Serving up high class ice cream at Venchi, in Covent Garden.

As street photography evolves, ethical considerations have become increasingly important. Photographers must navigate issues related to privacy, consent, and the portrayal of subjects. While the old masters operated in a different social context, modern street photographers must be mindful of the impact their work can have on individuals and communities. Striking a balance between artistic expression and ethical responsibility is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the genre.

The Future of Street Photography

Looking ahead, the future of street photography is likely to be shaped by ongoing technological advancements and changing social dynamics. Innovations in camera technology, such as AI-driven autofocus and computational photography, will continue to expand the creative possibilities for photographers. At the same time, evolving attitudes towards privacy and surveillance will influence how street photography is practiced and perceived.

The journey from film to digital has been a transformative one for street photography. While the old masters laid the foundation with their pioneering work, modern photographers have embraced new tools and techniques to push the boundaries of the genre. By understanding the history and evolution of street photography, we can appreciate the timeless principles that continue to guide us and look forward to the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.

---

All photographs copyright © 2024 Michael Elliott. All rights reserved.