Street and Urban Photography with Mike Martin

Street photography is the art of capturing life in its most real, candid form. Often, street photography is based around human subjects, but more than anything it’s about observing everyday life. Because of this, street photography is often very emotive and makes for great framed wall prints or photo books. Nothing quite captures the essence of street photography like a physical copy of an image.

Mike Martin is a photographer and Fotospeed Ambassador with a passion for street and urban photography. In his images, he looks beyond what the average observer may see and puts focus on different elements in order to create evocative images. However, Mike’s version of street photography is quite different to that of typical street photographers.

Londondown the Tube

"I love street photography and admire the work of many exponents that are far better than I am. However, I’m not a ‘purist’ that believes the image should be a straight image – I’m happy manipulating it to convey whatever message or create whatever I choose – I do, after all, consider myself as a creative image maker." Mike says.

So what does that mean?

Below and at the end of this blog are a few of Mike Martin’s street photography images which he manipulates and experiments with in order to create something a little more unique.

Footsteps through time

"Whilst sitting at the bus stop waiting, I simply focussed on the pavement and took a collection of images of people walking through the scene. This is a composite of 5 images combined using layer masks to illustrate the passage of time." Mike says.

"Street photography doesn’t have to be on the street; it’s a reference to a style or genre of images and can be applied in different settings. Museums and galleries are a great ‘hunting ground’ and often yield fantastic opportunities." Mike says. "Airports and Tube Stations are another great venue for street photography; just ensure you’re familiar with the local bylaws or restrictions that may be in place."

Pictures at an Exhibition Untitled

Not Sticking to the rules

Mike also believes that, to create some powerful and creative images, you don’t necessarily have to stick to the typical rules of street photography. "As well as capturing candid activity (the more traditional view of this genre) feel free to approach people for their portrait (be braver!) or look for less conventional images too." he suggests.

Girl in the window Down the Stairs

Final Thoughts

"Street photography is what you make it," Mike says. There are plenty of ways to get experimental and creative with street photography; just simply look beyond everyday movement and find the individual stories waiting to be told.

Take a look at more of Mike Martin’s photography here.

You can also check out our YouTube channel for more tips and tricks.