Street Shots Photography Podcast

  In this episode, Antonio and Ward explore the idea of a “color voice” in photography—a personal and intentional use of color that can shape a photographer’s visual identity. They discuss how color choices can influence the emotional impact of an image, creating a mood or enhancing the story being told. From vibrant, high-contrast palettes to more subtle, muted tones, they examine how photographers can experiment with color to reflect their own creative vision and connect with their audience on a deeper level. The conversation focuses on how a photographer’s relationship with color extends beyond editing, involving how they perceive and capture colors in various environments. Antonio shares his thoughts on letting color become a defining feature of one’s style, while Ward discusses how lighting and surroundings can transform the way colors are experienced in an image. Their discussion highlights the interplay between observation, creativity, and intentionality in crafting a photographic voice through color.

“When I photograph, what I’m really doing is seeking answers to things.”  -- Wynn Bullock “If you want to be a better photographer, stand in front of more interesting stuff.”  -- Jim Richardson   In this episode, Antonio and Ward reflect on photography’s unique role in preserving memories and stories. They discuss the importance of visual media literacy, highlighting how critical it is to go beyond just taking photos—to truly “read” images and understand the narratives they capture. Antonio shares his interest in teaching these skills, noting an upcoming workshop designed to deepen understanding in this area. They also touch on how photography serves as a bridge to the past, preserving moments that can evoke powerful emotions or insights upon rediscovery. Through examples and personal reflections, Antonio and Ward examine how images can be more than visual records—they’re a way to keep memories alive, capture personal history, and connect us to our own stories and those of others.   Subscribe to our Substac

  "Serendipity plays an enormous role in my work. I create the possibilities for accidents to happen." -- Robbert Flick   "I’m very interested in the uncanny and a way to find something mysterious or terrible within everyday life." -- Gregory Crewdson   In this episode, Antonio and Ward start, as usual, by discussing recent book acquisitions, including books received by Antonio, such as “Sons of the Living” by Bryan Schutmaat, Fred Hertzog’s “Black and White”, Anne Noggle’s “Flight of Spirit,” and Ward’s order of a book on Japanese female photographers titled “I’m So Happy You Are Here: Japanese Women Photographers from the 1950s to Now.”    Subsequently, they dive into the aesthetics of the “uncanny” in photography, exploring how certain images evoke a sense of unease and elucidating the potential for these unsettling moments to serve as powerful storytelling devices. Ward shares a captivating photograph taken in New York, while Antonio discusses the significance of presenting students with Garry Winogrand’s

"What I'm always trying to do is to make a picture that goes beyond a story." "If you can shoot on the street, you can shoot anything." -- Mary Ellen Mark   In this episode, Antonio and Ward begin with some "light" conversation about the aurora making a rare appearance in New York. Antonio reflects on the quiet satisfaction of finally catching a glimpse, even though his neighbors’ iPhones seemed to perform better than his carefully chosen Fujifilm setup. It wasn’t just about getting the perfect shot—it was about being part of the moment and feeling connected to something beyond the ordinary. But the episode really finds its rhythm when the conversation turns to Mary Ellen Mark. Both Antonio and Ward admire her ability to disappear into the scenes she captured, especially during her time as the set photographer on Apocalypse Now. They talk about how her photographs of Brando feel less like production stills and more like windows into the very essence of his character, Colonel Kurtz. There’s a shared sense of

"...talking about pictures as though you could tell anybody how to take good ones is nuts. Pictures are given, not taken." -- Robert Adams "The work of a photographer is to reveal hidden things." -- Matt Black   In this episode, Antonio and Ward kick things off by comparing the new iPhone camera to Fujifilm gear, debating whether the latest upgrades really make a difference for serious shooters. From there, Ward talks about his upcoming trip to Japan and how he plans to shoot street photography around Tokyo and beyond, hoping to capture some of the country’s unique character. He also shares his experience using different film stocks like Ilford HP5 and T-Max 100, reflecting on the challenges of exposure and why he’s leaning back toward Ilford for its flexibility and grain structure. They also dig into recent book finds like Bryan Shutmaat’s "Sons of the Living", which documents the gritty reality of the American Southwest, and Anne Noggle’s intimate black-and-white portraits. Antonio highlights Pau Buscató’s

"Photography books often have titles like The Photographer’s Eye or The Vision of So and So or Seeing Photographs — as if photographers didn’t have minds, only eyes." -- Duane Michals “A book is like a piece of music; it has a beginning and an end, but what happens in between is up to you.” -- Stephen Shore   In this episode, Antonio talks about connecting with his new Fujifilm X100VI camera during a photo walk around New York City. He reflects on how much he enjoys shooting with this camera, which feels just right in his hands and helps him capture the energy of the city. As fall sets in and the days get shorter, he’s planning to head back out for some night photography, especially around the bright lights of Times Square. Ward shares his recent experience photographing the Pride parade in Calgary. He usually shoots in black and white but decided to switch things up and capture the parade’s vibrant colors. It turned out to be a lively and colorful event, full of energy and emotion, and gave him a new perspe

"Don't tell your parents where we went” “I’m sort of a spy,” ― Vivian Maier   In this episode, Ward and Antonio start off by diving into Ward's recent exploration of minimalist photography. Ward shares how he has been capturing everyday objects—like cars and sheds—using his phone camera in black and white. His focus is on the "thinginess" of these mundane subjects, turning them into striking images that highlight their presence and simplicity. Ward reflects on how this approach mirrors his earlier work and discusses the surprisingly high quality of prints that could be achieved with smartphone cameras. The conversation moves on to Antonio's recent experience attending a talk by photographer Sean Tucker, who discussed themes from his book, "The Meaning and the Making." Antonio shares insights from the event, highlighting Tucker's emphasis on slowing down and appreciating the process of photography in an era dominated by the rapid pace of social media. This discussion prompts both hosts to reflect on the chall

"For me, vision is an intelligent form of thought." -- Andreas Gursky “Creativity is contagious, pass it on.” – Albert Einstein   In this episode, Antonio and Ward start with reflections on the changing seasons and how it influences their photography experiences. They transition into a discussion about the nuances of teaching Lightroom, where Antonio shares how he successfully engaged his students by incorporating personal insights and broader photography contexts rather than sticking strictly to technical instruction. This approach not only made the classes more dynamic but also underscored the importance of connecting deeply with one's photographic work. The episode also touches on the different ways photographers approach their craft. Antonio talks about his recent discovery of 1,600 untouched photos on his camera, which he hadn’t downloaded for months. Revisiting these images led to a rewarding process of rediscovery, evoking the anticipation and surprise of developing film in the pre-digital era. Ward

"I’m ready to surrender into the idea that we’re all connected, and that I need to be of service somehow." "The way we see things changes them, and the things we see change us." -- Gino Miele In this episode, Antonio and Ward welcome Gino Miele for an in-depth conversation about the delicate balance between being fully present in a moment and capturing it through photography. Gino shares his experience photographing a lowrider family in New Mexico, where he found himself both immersed in the vibrant scene and mentally juggling the technical aspects of getting the shot. This sparks a broader discussion about the challenge many photographers face: how to fully engage with the scene in front of them while also framing it through the lens. The trio reminisces about their own struggles with this balance, touching on the idea of "photo gods" and how sometimes the most serendipitous moments happen when you least expect them. The guys continue to explore how photographers can sometimes lose sight of the bigger pictu

In this episode, Ward kicks things off by sharing his experiences at the Calgary Stampede, a massive fair and rodeo. He talks about using his new camera gear, including his trusty Fujifilm X-E3 with a 23mm lens for wide shots and the new Fuji X-S20 with a 50mm lens for more detailed portraits. Ward explains how he uses the 23mm lens for capturing groups of people in candid moments and the 50mm lens for more composed shots from a distance. He emphasizes the importance of getting into the right mindset to capture compelling images, especially in such a lively setting. Ward also reflects on the importance of enjoying the process of photography, from shooting to editing. Antonio then brings up an interesting discussion about the ability to simultaneously experience an event and document it through photography. He draws on his experiences filming concerts and live shows to illustrate how seasoned photographers can balance both aspects. They discuss the concept of "seeing" in photography and how it can transform o

"I believe photographers should shoot what they want, not shoot what they get."     - Roberto Valenzuela "Skill in photography is acquired by practice and not by purchase."     - Percy W. Harris   In this episode, Antonio dives into a bit of a rant about AI in photo editing, expressing his mixed feelings. He appreciates the convenience these tools offer but worries they’re stripping away the authenticity and skill that go into creating great photos. Antonio also talks about his recent street photography class and the joy of teaching others, even mentioning a beautiful day out shooting with his Fujifilm Instax camera. Ward jumps in next, talking about his new Fujifilm XS20 camera. He talks about how well it performed at a rodeo event, praising the advanced autofocus and how easy it was to handle despite its compact size. Ward’s enthusiasm is contagious as he describes the buzz of getting those dynamic action shots, and how this new gear opened up new possibilities for his photography. He goes into detail abou

"Photographers, like all artists, choose their medium because it allows them the most fully truthful expression of their vision. Other ways are relatively imprecise and incomplete. . . . " - Robert Adams   In this episode, Antonio and Ward sit down with their guest (and follower of the show), Jeffrey Saldinger. Jeffrey, who started as a painter, shares his artistic journey and how he eventually fell in love with photography. Inspired by Giorgio Morandi’s exhibition at the Guggenheim, Jeffrey decided to focus on his creative life, swapping brushes for cameras. He talks about his transition from painting to photography and how he mastered digital tools like Lightroom and Photoshop. They discuss Jeffrey's recent photo book, “Unassuming Places in New York City’s Manhattan and Astoria.” Jeffrey explains his process of selecting and arranging images, emphasizing formal qualities and personal connections over traditional storytelling. The conversation also covers the challenges of photographing familiar places. Ant

"When I use the camera, I often feel like I know something of the people or places I come in contact with." - Christophe Agou "No place is boring, if you've had a good night's sleep and have a pocket full of unexposed film." - Robert Adams     In this episode, Antonio and Ward discuss Gerald Undone’s recent YouTube video, which critiques how camera reviewers should approach their work. They talk about the importance of transparency, thoroughness, and the impact these reviews have on the photography community. They share their perspectives on how more detailed and honest reviews can benefit both photographers and manufacturers. In the second part of the episode, Antonio and Ward explore the concept of psychogeography. They talk about how geographical environments influence emotions and behaviors in street photography. They share personal experiences and insights on how wandering through urban landscapes can ignite creativity, leading to unique and unexpected photographic opportunities. Their conversation enco

"The grain in film is something I crave. It adds a layer of truth and rawness."  - Wim Wenders   “It's like a fingerprint on every image."  - Anton Corbijn   In this episode, Antonio and Ward dive into some new photography gear and fascinating image-making techniques. Antonio kicks things off by sharing info about the new Fotodiox GFX stitching adapter for 4x5 cameras. He discusses the possibilities of pairing it with his Fujifilm GFX camera for panoramic shots and how he could use this setup for his tree photography at Green-Wood Cemetery. Ward also shares his recent experience photographing the aurora. They go over the technical aspects and challenges of aurora photography, with Ward's images showcasing the spectacular natural light show. The conversation shifts to grain and noise in photography. Antonio and Ward reminisce about their experiences with film grain, comparing it to the digital noise of today's cameras. They discuss how their preferences and techniques have evolved over the years, especially w

"The wonderful thing about photography is that it's a solo act. It's just me and the camera."  - Jessica Lange "The common denominator is that we all want to make something beautiful, something relatable, something we can look at and say, 'Shit! Yeah, man. That turned out better than I thought."  - Jeff Bridges    In this episode, Antonio and Ward discuss a quirky event Ward attended where a record number of people dressed in inflatable dinosaur costumes. This lighthearted gathering is contrasted with Antonio's experience at the AIPAD photography show, where he explored an extensive exhibition featuring a rich array of photographs from both historic and modern photographers. He was particularly moved by the historical depth and artistic expression evident in the displayed photographs. The conversation shifts to celebrity photographers, highlighting the surprising photographic talents of well-known figures such as Jeff Bridges and Dennis Hopper. Antonio and Ward discuss how these celebrities utilize their uni

"What is a photograph? For me, a fragment of quick-silver, a lucid dream, a scribbled note from the subconscious to be deciphered, perhaps, over years. It is a monologue trying to become a conversation, an offering, an alibi, a salute." -- Eva Rubinstein   In this episode, Antonio vividly shares his recent experience of photographing the recent eclipse. He details the use of a new filter and the excitement of capturing the celestial event, discussing both the technical aspects and the personal thrill of the experience. Ward introduces a German photographer he recently discovered, Holger Nitschke. He describes Nitschke's unique approach to fashion photography, emphasizing his use of film and the distinct aesthetic of his black and white works. Ward appreciates the modern yet timeless quality of Nitschke’s photos, which he feels blend traditional and contemporary elements seamlessly. Antonio then shifts the conversation to discuss Eva Rubinstein, a photographer he only recently came across. He is particularly

"If you look carefully at life, you see blur. Shake your hand. Blur is part of life." -- William Klein "Do not mistake sharpness for truth." -- Peter Henry Emerson   In this episode, Antonio and Ward embark on an enlightening discussion about starting a photography collective. Drawing from their experience in building their own photography group, they provide invaluable tips and advice on the importance of having a common gathering place, patience, and evolving organically. Antonio pays tribute to recently departed friend and fellow photographer, Mel DiGiacomo, whose approach to capturing the essence of life has deeply impacted his own work. Through personal reflections, Antonio shares how Mel’s distinct and authentic style, characterized by its raw and candid nature, challenged and reshaped his perspective on photography. This tribute to Mel is both intimate and enlightening, offering listeners a glimpse into the lasting legacy of a photographer who truly understood the power of the medium to tell compellin

"The instance of photographing, instead of creating a distance, is a moment of clarity and emotional connection for me." -- Nan Goldin "I've never made any picture, good or bad, without paying for it in emotional turmoil." -- W. Eugene Smith   In this episode, Antonio and Ward kick things off with some easygoing chat about history and pop culture, setting a laid-back vibe. Things quickly get more personal as Antonio opens up about dealing with his sick cat, which smoothly segues into the episode's deeper themes of coping with loss and navigating grief. They also chat about how the pandemic's been a real game-changer for content creators, especially YouTubers, sparking a lot of soul-searching about work-life balance and finding genuine fulfillment in their creations. But the real meat of the conversation is all about empathy in photography. Antonio and Ward dive into how photos can capture and share the raw emotions and stories of life, using their own experiences and nodding to legends like W. Eugene Smith t

"Reality is the intuition and the imagination and the quiet voice inside my head that says: isn’t that extraordinary?" -- Duane Michals "In my years of photography I have learned that many things can be sensed, seen, shaped or resolved in a realm of quiet…" -- Paul Caponigro   In this episode, Antonio and Ward delve into the transformative role of silence in photography, illustrating how it bolsters intuition and enables the creation of emotionally powerful images, as seen in iconic works like "Afghan Girl" and "Migrant Mother." They discuss "silent portraits" by photographers such as Bruce Gilden and Richard Avedon, highlighting the deep emotional connections forged in silence. The conversation also addresses the challenges posed by the digital era and social media, contrasting the reflective nature of traditional photography with the rapid consumption of images today. Concluding with personal reflections, they emphasize the importance of incorporating silence into daily life and creative processes, advocat

"Do this work not for yourself... Do it for the greater purpose of others, our collective humanity." -- John Stanmeyer "Reaching a 'creative' state of mind thru positive action is considered preferable to waiting for 'inspiration'." -- Minor White   In this episode, Antonio and Ward dive deep into the heart of photography communities, sharing tales from "Beers and Cameras" and "Coffees and Cameras." They explore how these gatherings morph from grand events to intimate meetups, fostering not just skills but genuine connections. It's a laid-back chat about the shift from competitive isolation to a culture of openness and collaboration, where sharing knowledge becomes as crucial as capturing moments. They muse on the magic of combining photography with other art forms, imagining the endless possibilities when creatives cross paths. This episode isn't just about photography; it's about building a space where artists inspire, learn, and grow together, one snapshot at a time.   Subscribe to our Substack Newsletter