Saturday Street Photography
Finally! The weather seems to be changing for the better. With that, the streets have come alive! Today’s photo walk was a great with several interesting candid moments and a few street portraits and conversations. Warmth and sunshine really does bring out the positive energy – I could definitely feel it today!
This Saturday was all about shooting candidly. I didn’t want to take many permission asked street portraits, and instead was enjoying the see and shoot approach. Also, I like to photograph people smoking! Strange, right? There is something about this activity that intrigues me.
Image 1 – 3: Candid, Leica M / 50mm, Winnipeg MB
Mike Pratt Photography Blog 
Fantastic images, Mike. And so nice that you could enjoy both sunshine and warmth and that you feel a positive energy. I can almost feel the energy in the images too. :)
I know what you mean, I like photographing smokers too… even if I’m a smoker myself.
You have already seen this one (and commented): http://malinhphotography.wordpress.com/2014/03/03/waiting-for-the-train/
Thank you very much, Malin! It is always interesting to see the change in the moods of people, just because of the weather getting better! Oh yes, I remember that shot! Love it!
My pleasure, Mike.
I agree with you – the change in peoples faces, that’s something special.
Ps I saw you had a facebook page too, I’m a “fan” now. ;)
Great shots Mike :) You should start a project “Smoke if you got em”. These days a lot of people don’t use a 50mm for street shooting but this is my favorite focal length (or the 35mm on my crop sensor Fuji). If it was good enough for Henry Carter-Bresson its certainly good enough for me :)
I was thinking about a project like that at one point, Joe! Maybe I should go for it. I’ve always liked a 35mm or 50mm for street photography and I’m happy shooting at either focal length. I’m saving up for a Leica 35mm at the moment, so the 50 will do for now :)
Great shots, love the counter light… I use the 50mm Summicron for almost everything I shoot…. The angle of view is all I need…. Awesome work! Greetings from Belgium! Guy
Much appreciated, Guy! I’m very much the same way – one lens, and just go for the shots. I’ve been using the 50 for quite some and have really come to enjoy it.
Oh so groovy Mike! There is something about smoking photos and these are terrific. Looks like a laid back Saturday which are the very best kind. ;) sunlight and good vibes, love these photos! By the way, can my alter ego bum a smoke? ;)
Peace my wildly talented friend~ Allison
Laid back and relaxing :) The streets were filled with friendly folks or those who just didn’t care about my annoying camera pointed at them! ;)
You can bum a smoke whenever you like! I suddenly think of the great (maybe not in everyone’s eyes) cigarette advertisements from decades ago. I suppose they’re rather terrible in these oh-so modern times, but fun to look back on.
I have a friend who said if they made a cigarette that didn’t cause cancer he’ be a two pack a day guy. I totally get that!! It’s bad health wise but it looks so ethereal sexy. Something about the way smoke curls totally intrigues me. Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall come to mind!
I like them very much! They do feel somehow different from your usual ones. Maybe it’s the ‘see and shoot’ approach :)
I’m glad the weather is finally getting better for you too xox
Thanks! Yeah, trying to change it up a bit! I enjoy street portraiture, but the candid stuff is good too. I like to sneak some in there from time to time.
I’m very happy about the weather. Just need some rain to clean up the streets a bit more and get rid of the lingering snow and ice.
This is an amazing shot, I love the smoke and his expression. These photos remind me of my earlier days when I did nothing but street photography. You really have caught something special in all of these photos.
I especially like the first photo on top. There’s just so much to it.