Street Life

Mark Davidson and John St

Street Life is a street photography podcast hosted by John St and Mark Davidson. Each fortnight, John and Mark speak to talented, world-class street photographers - from traditional and established doyens of the industry to innovative and emerging trailblazers - about their work and love for street photography.

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20 episodes
Updated Thursday

Episodes20

Newest first

Thursday · 35 min
Lukas Vasilikos
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, Mark Davidson and John St dive into an engaging conversation with Lukas Vasilikos, a contemporary Greek photographer renowned for his atmospheric street photography. Lukas shares his journey into photography, which began in 2006 after attending a seminar that ignited his passion for street photography. He discusses his transition from being an athlete to a photographer and how that discipline has influenced his work. We explore his extensive body of work, including a deeply personal project documenting his daughter's growth over 18 years, which he plans to publish soon. Throughout the episode, Lukas reflects on the complexities of street photography, including the love-hate relationship many photographers have with the genre. He emphasises the importance of being disciplined and the necessity of shooting regularly to improve one's craft. We also touch on the ethical considerations of candid photography and the challenges of photographing in Athens, a city he describes as visually chaotic and aggressive. As the conversation unfolds, Lukas shares insights into his creative process, the significance of understanding photography as a language, and the value of consuming various forms of art to enhance one's photographic vision. In closing, Lukas expresses a desire to photograph in Poland and Paris, highlighting the unique opportunities each location offers for street photography. This episode is a rich exploration of the artistic journey, the challenges of street photography and the personal connections that drive Lukas's work. Thank you for joining us, and we hope you enjoy this insightful conversation! WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!
July 16 · 52 min
Ignore the Naysayers: Criticism, Creativity and Commitment
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, John and Mark dive into a lively discussion about their recent experiences in street photography and the broader photography community. We chat about Mark's recent appearance on the Eyeshot 50mm podcast and YouTube channel. We touch on the sometimes contentious nature of artist statements in photography competitions, with John expressing his frustration over how much weight is placed on them compared to the actual images. We both agree that photographs should speak for themselves, and that the focus should be on the work rather than the words that accompany it. As we discuss the reactions to the Eyeshot interview, we reflect on the importance of respectful dialogue in the photography community, even when opinions differ. We also celebrate Mark's recent success in getting a photo into the finals of the Canberra Contemporary Photography Prize, which has prompted him to think about branching out from street photography into other genres. The conversation shifts to the recent Worldwide Streets exhibition, where we both had our work displayed. Finally, we discuss the upcoming Fujifilm X-T6 rumours and the excitement surrounding new gear in the photography world. Overall, this episode is a mix of personal anecdotes, industry insights and a celebration of the vibrant community of photographers we are proud to be a part of. Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!
July 2 · 59 min
Mark Forbes
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, John St and Mark welcome special guest, Mark Forbes, a renowned Melbourne photographer known for his cinematic style and use of traditional film cameras. Mark shares his journey into street photography, which began about 15 years ago as a weekend hobby. He reflects on how his approach has evolved from capturing decisive moments of people on the street to focusing on solitude and nostalgia in urban scenes, often without people present. Mark engages in a thought-provoking discussion about the definition of street photography. Mark argues that images without people can still be considered street photography, emphasising the importance of the scene itself and the emotions it evokes. He explains how his work often centers around themes of common human experiences, using objects to represent the human aspect in his images. Mark also shares insights into his creative process, discussing how he finds interesting scenes, often on the fringes of urban environments. He recounts experiences of photographing abandoned places and the stories behind them, highlighting the importance of patience and intuition in his work. The conversation takes a deeper turn as Mark discusses his documentary project on Fukushima, detailing the challenges he faced in gaining access to the area and the profound impact of the stories he captured. He reflects on the importance of persistence in photography and the emotional weight of the images he created. As the episode wraps up, Mark shares his thoughts on the future of his work, including the possibility of another book and the balance between self-publishing and working with a publisher. He emphasises the joy and love he finds in photography, regardless of external recognition. Join us for this engaging episode filled with insights, personal stories and a celebration of the art of street photography. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting out, there's something here for everyone to appreciate and learn from. WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!
June 18 · 1 hr 10 min
Éléonore Simon
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, John and Mark dive into the world of street photography with special guest, Éléonore Simon. Éléonore shares her fascinating journey into photography, starting from her childhood interest in the arts to her formal education in art history. She discusses her self-taught approach to photography, emphasising the freedom it provides and how it allows for personal expression without the constraints of commercial expectations. We explore Éléonore's unique style, which blends documentary observation with an artistic touch, and her preference for black and white photography. She explains how her nomadic upbringing has influenced her perspective and approach to street photography, particularly during her five years living in Valparaiso, Chile. Éléonore also touches on her recent project, "Le Bleu Secret Sans Bruit”, which showcases her work with cyanotypes, highlighting the contrasts and dreamlike quality of her images. We discuss the challenges and joys of editing and curating a body of work, as well as the evolution of her photography over time. Throughout the conversation, Éléonore's passion for photography shines through, and we gain valuable insights into the artistic process and the importance of enjoying the journey of creation. Join us for this engaging discussion that celebrates the art of street photography and the stories behind the lens. WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!
June 4 · 1 hr 10 min
Peter Kalnbach, aka Street Nomad
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, John St and Mark Davidson dive into the world of street photography with our guest, Peter Kalnbach, a Hamburg-based photographer known for his cinematic, neo-noir vision of urban life. Peter shares his journey into photography, which began in 2017 during a trip to New York, where he aimed to capture the city's soul rather than just its landmarks. He discusses the challenges of being self-taught and how it has influenced his creative process, allowing him to break free from traditional photography rules. We explore the difficulties of shooting in Germany, where public awareness of photography can hinder the creative process. Peter reflects on his experiences in Japan and India, emphasising the importance of adapting to different environments and overcoming personal barriers in street photography. As we discuss the impact of social media on creativity, Peter candidly shares his struggles with maintaining his artistic vision while managing audience expectations. He highlights the importance of focusing on personal passion over likes and shares, and we touch on his plans for future exhibitions and self-published books. Overall, this episode is a deep dive into the evolving nature of street photography, the challenges photographers face, and the importance of staying true to one's artistic vision. We hope you enjoy this insightful conversation! WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!
May 21 · 1 hr 3 min
Mania De Praeter
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, Mark and John dive into the world of street photography with special guest Mania De Praeter, a Belgian street photographer and neurosurgeon. Marnie shares her unique journey into photography, which began during the COVID lockdowns when she started exploring the streets of Antwerp. We discuss the impact of the pandemic on her perspective, leading her to discover beauty in everyday moments and solitude in public spaces. Mania reflects on her transition from casual photography to a more serious pursuit, emphasising the therapeutic balance it provides alongside her demanding career in neurosurgery. Throughout the conversation, we touch on the challenges of street photography, including the varying reactions from the public and the importance of community support. Mania shares her experiences shooting in New York, contrasting it with her work in Antwerp, and highlights her fascination with capturing the quiet moments of life. As we explore her artistic influences, Mania reveals her admiration for iconic artists like Saul Leiter and Edward Hopper, while also discussing her aspirations for future projects, including a potential book that juxtaposes her work from Antwerp and New York. We also delve into the complexities of social media, particularly Instagram, and how it affects photographers' creativity and self-perception. Mania candidly discusses her hit rate in photography and the pressure to produce work that resonates with her audience. Join us for an insightful conversation that not only celebrates street photography but also reflects on the personal journeys of artists navigating their craft amidst the challenges of life and the world around them. WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!
May 7 · 1 hr 6 min
Mo Barzegar
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, Mark Davidson and John St dive into the world of street photography, welcoming special guest Mo Barzegar, a San Francisco-based street photographer. Mo shares his journey into photography, starting from his childhood fascination with art and wildlife magazines to his eventual shift towards street photography in his 30s, including his initial inspiration from Bruce Gilden. He discusses the transition from shooting landscapes to street photography and the challenges he faced in adapting to different environments, particularly after moving from London to San Francisco. Mo also reflects on his experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, documenting the changes in London and the impact of the lockdown on his work. He emphasises the importance of community in photography, sharing his passion for bringing photographers together through exhibitions and events. Throughout the episode, we explore the evolution of Mo's style, his approach to shooting in different cities and the significance of connecting with fellow photographers. We wrap up with Mo's thoughts on the San Francisco photography scene and his aspirations for building a community hub for photographers. Join us for this engaging conversation filled with insights, personal stories and a shared love for street photography! WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!
April 23 · 1 hr 19 min
Nikita Teryoshin
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, Mark and John dive into the world of street photography with special guest Nikita Teryoshin, a Berlin-based documentary and street photographer known for his distinctive style, which he describes as “everyday horror”. He discusses his creative upbringing and how early exposure to music, poetry and other artistic pursuits shaped his path into photography. Nikita also talks about his acclaimed project Nothing Personal, which earned him a World Press Photo Award in 2020. The work explores the global arms trade, focusing on the surreal atmosphere of arms fairs and the uneasy contrast between their polished, business-like presentation and the violence they ultimately enable. Throughout the conversation, he reflects on his interest in the relationships between humans, animals and systems of power, as well as the broader societal implications of industries tied to conflict. His work challenges viewers to confront the often-overlooked realities behind political and economic structures, encouraging a deeper consideration of violence, ethics and responsibility in the modern world. Join us for an engaging discussion that blends humour, personal stories and thought-provoking commentary on the art of street photography and the realities of our contemporary society. WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!
April 9 · 56 min
Fredrik Axling
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, Mark and John dive into the world of street photography with special guest Fredrik Axling, a Stockholm-based photographer who has made a remarkable transition from a decade-long career as an electronic music producer to capturing the essence of urban life through his lens. Fredrik reveals that he initially picked up a camera during a stressful period in his life, using it as a form of self-therapy. Within weeks, he discovered a passion for photography that led him to quit music in favor of capturing real moments on the streets. Fredrik discusses his early influences in street photography, and recounts his first experiences shooting in urban environments. He emphasises the importance of spontaneity and the thrill of capturing people in their natural settings, which he finds far more engaging than static landscapes. As the discussion progresses, Fredrik shares insights into his photographic style, characterised by strong colours and high contrast, and his photobook, which showcases his exploration of the human element within urban landscapes. He also talks about the challenges of shooting in Stockholm, especially during the long, dark winters, and how he adapts his techniques to make the most of limited light. The hosts and Fredrik delve into the dynamics of street photography, including the balance between capturing candid moments and respecting people's privacy. Frederik recounts a memorable encounter with an angry subject early in his career, which ultimately didn't deter him from pursuing his passion. Throughout the episode, we explore the relationship between photography and social media, with Fredrik sharing his love-hate relationship with platforms like Instagram. He reflects on how social media has helped him connect with other photographers and build a supportive community. As the conversation wraps up, Fredrik hints at an upcoming exhibition and shares his thoughts on the future of his photography career. Join us for this engaging episode filled with laughter, insights and a deep appreciation for the art of street photography. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting out, Fredrik's journey and passion for capturing the world around him will inspire you to hit the streets and find your own unique perspective. INSTAGRAM Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!
March 26 · 1 hr 1 min
Mike Chudley
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, we dive deep into the world of street photography with our special guest, Mike Chudley, a London-based street photographer and YouTuber. We kick off the conversation by discussing Mike's journey from skateboarding to street photography. Mike explains the connection between skate culture and photography, emphasising how capturing moments through images is essential to the skateboarding experience. He shares how a Christmas gift from his mother, a camera, ignited his passion for photography at a young age. As we delve deeper, Mike describes his transition from skate photography to street photography after moving to Essex. He highlights the unique opportunities London offers for street photographers and how he balances shooting in the bustling city with quieter coastal scenes in Essex. We discuss the challenges and joys of photographing strangers, and Mike shares a memorable encounter with a fisherman that exemplifies the beauty of candid photography. We also touch on the business side of Mike's work, exploring how he has turned his passion for photography and YouTube into a full-time career. He candidly discusses the ups and downs of being a content creator, including dealing with negative comments and the importance of community support. Throughout the episode, we explore the technical aspects of photography, including Mike's hybrid setup of shooting both film and digital. He shares insights on how he approaches sequencing images for his projects, including his recent zine from a trip to California, and reflects on the lessons learned from his first book, Learning to See. As we wrap up, Mike offers valuable advice for aspiring YouTubers and photographers, emphasising the importance of authenticity and the joy of sharing one's creative process. We conclude with a discussion about the evolving nature of street photography and the significance of human presence in capturing the essence of the streets. Join us for this engaging conversation filled with laughter, insights, and a shared love for street photography! INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!
March 12 · 1 hr 21 min
Josh Ethan Johnson
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, Mark and John St dive deep into the world of street photography with our guest, Josh Ethan Johnson, a talented photographer and filmmaker based in New York. Josh joins us to discuss his multifaceted career, which spans photography, filmmaking and even music. He shares his journey into street photography, revealing how his childhood fascination with family photos and his experiences in art school shaped his artistic vision. We explore the parallels between street photography and fly fishing, emphasising the importance of patience and the acceptance of failure in both pursuits. Throughout the conversation, Josh reflects on the challenges of approaching strangers on the street and the significance of building genuine connections with his subjects. He also discusses his acclaimed video series, The Wrong Side of the Lens, which highlights the stories of street photographers and their unique perspectives. We touch on the complexities of storytelling through photography, the impact of personal relationships with images, and the importance of context in visual narratives. Josh shares memorable experiences from his work, including a particularly striking photo taken at a pornography convention, illustrating the unexpected moments that can arise in the field. As we wrap up, we discuss the current events in Minneapolis and the role of photographers in documenting social issues, emphasising the balance between artistic expression and ethical responsibility. This episode is a rich exploration of the art of street photography, the connections we forge with others and the stories that unfold in our everyday lives. Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!
February 26 · 1 hr 19 min
Jeremy Paige, aka Eaten By Flowers
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, co-hosts Mark Davidson and John St engage in a lively conversation with Los Angeles-based street photographer Jeremy Paige, also known as Eaten by Flowers. Jeremy shares his unconventional journey into photography, revealing that he initially aspired to be a writer but found his voice through visual storytelling. He discusses the importance of feedback from mentors and how it shaped his path, leading him to embrace photography as a medium for expression. Throughout the conversation, Jeremy emphasises his reluctance to label himself as a photographer, citing the pressure that comes with such titles and the desire to avoid ego. We explore Jeremy's unique approach to street photography, where he captures the gritty and surreal aspects of Hollywood life. He explains how he immerses himself in his environment, often shooting in a familiar 15-block radius, and how he thrives on the challenges of finding compelling images in everyday situations. Jeremy also touches on the ethical considerations of street photography, particularly regarding the portrayal of vulnerable subjects like children and the homeless. One of the highlights of the episode is Jeremy's recounting of a memorable encounter with a man who reacted aggressively to being photographed. This story serves as a springboard for discussing the fine line between capturing candid moments and the potential for exploitation in street photography. Overall, this episode is a thought-provoking exploration of the motivations behind street photography, the challenges of artistic expression, and the importance of storytelling in our everyday lives. Join us as we delve into the mind of a photographer who is constantly pushing boundaries and seeking to capture the raw essence of the world around him. INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!
February 12 · 1 hr 10 min
Lorenzo Catena
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, Mark Davidson and John St reconnect after a brief hiatus, diving into their recent photography projects and the evolving landscape of street photography. Mark shares his experiences with a new photography project in Footscray, while John discusses his ongoing work in Adelaide. Mark and John then introduce their guest, Lorenzo Catena, an Italian photographer and architect. Lorenzo shares his journey into photography, highlighting how his architectural background influences his approach to composition and storytelling. He discusses his notable project, Comitiva, which challenges the notion of candid street photography by incorporating posed portraits, and reflects on the importance of expanding one's photographic repertoire beyond strict definitions. Lorenzo also talks about his ongoing project in Rome, focusing on the city's unique materials and textures, and the challenges posed by the influx of tourists. He emphasises the value of collaboration in photography, recounting his experiences working with fellow photographer Valeria Tofanelli on a project documenting Ostia, a coastal area of Rome. Their work captures the beauty and complexity of the region, showcasing the lives of its residents during the pandemic. Throughout the episode, the hosts and Lorenzo engage in a lively discussion about the nuances of street photography, the importance of patience and observation, and the evolving nature of their artistic practices. This episode is a rich exploration of creativity, collaboration, and the stories that unfold in everyday life through the lens of street photography. INSTAGRAM Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!
Dec 25, 2025 · 1 hr 9 min
Suresh Naganathan
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, John and Mark dive into the fascinating world of street photography with special guest Suresh Naganathan. Suresh, a Swiss-born photographer now based in Mumbai, shares his unique journey from Switzerland to India and how it shaped his photographic style. We discuss Suresh's transition from taking holiday snaps to capturing the vibrant chaos of Mumbai's streets, highlighting the challenges and rewards of street photography. He reflects on the importance of being present in the moment and how he finds quiet, poignant moments amidst the city's hustle and bustle. Suresh also opens up about the complexities of photographing in a city with stark contrasts between wealth and poverty, emphasising the need for sensitivity and respect in his work. He shares insights into his creative process, including how he approaches sequencing images for his book and the importance of instinct in editing. Throughout the conversation, we touch on the struggles many photographers face, such as processing images and the fear of repetition in their work. Suresh's perspective on maintaining curiosity and openness in photography serves as an inspiring reminder for all of us. Join us as we explore the art of street photography through Suresh's eyes, and gain valuable insights into capturing the essence of urban life. Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!
Dec 11, 2025 · 1 hr 12 min
Mike Szpot, aka Illkoncept
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, John and Mark dive into the world of street photography with special guest, Mike Spot, who also goes by the name Illkoncept. Mike, a Milwaukee-born, New York-based street photographer and filmmaker, shares his journey from skateboarding to photography, highlighting how his early experiences with video shaped his current work. We discuss Mike's transition from skate videos to street photography, the challenges he faced while shooting in Vietnam during Tet, and how unexpected circumstances can lead to unique creative opportunities. Mike reflects on the importance of capturing moments in photography versus video, and we explore the parallels between skateboarding and street photography. Throughout the conversation, we touch on the significance of inspiration, the impact of weather on shooting, and the struggles of self-doubt that many photographers face. He shares insights on how to overcome creative ruts and the value of exploring new environments, whether through travel or simply changing your usual routes in familiar places. We also delve into Mike's filmmaking style, drawing inspiration from iconic filmmakers and discussing how he combines photography and video to tell compelling stories. His recent works, including a captivating video about his experiences in Japan, showcase his unique approach to visual storytelling. Join us for an engaging discussion filled with insights, inspiration, and a few laughs as we explore the art of street photography and the creative process behind it. Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!
Nov 27, 2025 · 45 min
Lost in Tokyo - Street Life Japan
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, we reflect on our recent trip to Japan, where we immersed ourselves in the vibrant culture and bustling streets of Tokyo. It was John's first visit to Japan, and I was overwhelmed by the efficiency of the city, the incredible food, and the sheer number of people. We discuss our experiences navigating the transport system, with John sharing his initial struggles and eventual mastery of it. We dive into our photography experiences, with John expressing the challenges he faced in capturing the essence of Tokyo, feeling that he didn't quite do it justice. Mark shares his own journey of shooting two rolls of film and discovering some unexpected keepers among the shots. We also touch on the unique aspects of Japanese culture, such as the politeness of the people, the absence of public eating, and the fascinating technology. Throughout the episode, we recount our encounters with fellow photographers and podcast listeners, including Tatsuo Suzuki, Laurence Bouchard, and Joel Pulliam, highlighting the warmth and kindness of the photography community in Japan. We also reminisce about our culinary adventures, including a memorable ramen experience and the challenges of using chopsticks. As we wrap up, we express our desire to return to Japan, explore more of its rural areas, and continue our photography journey. We appreciate the feedback from our listeners and look forward to future episodes with exciting guests. Thank you for joining us on this adventure! Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!
Nov 13, 2025 · 1 hr 6 min
Joakim Möller
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, we had the pleasure of speaking with Joakim Möller, a talented fine art street photographer based in Stockholm. Joakim is known for his haunting black and white imagery that beautifully blends reality with imagination. We delved into his journey into photography, which began in his teenage years, sparked by a high school course on street photography that opened his eyes to capturing candid moments in a way he had never considered before. Joakim shared his unique approach to street photography, emphasising the importance of mystery in his work. He discussed how he initially faced challenges while shooting in a small town in Sweden, where he often felt like an outsider with his camera. However, through perseverance and a shift in perspective, he learned to appreciate the beauty in his surroundings, leading to a series of photographs that captured the essence of his hometown. We explored Joakim's creative process, including his experimentation with diptychs during the COVID-19 pandemic, which allowed him to find new ways to express his artistic vision. He also touched on the significance of using accessible tools, like his Ricoh GRIII and even his iPhone, to create compelling images without being bogged down by gear. Throughout our conversation, Joakim reflected on the subjective nature of photography and the importance of personal interpretation. He candidly shared his thoughts on the challenges of entering competitions, the evolution of his relationship with Instagram, and the value of patience in creating meaningful work. As we wrapped up, Joakim expressed his aspirations for future projects, including a book that he hopes will encapsulate his artistic journey. It was an inspiring discussion that highlighted the transformative power of photography and the unique voice that each photographer brings to the art form. We hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did! WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!
Oct 23, 2025 · 1 hr 12 min
Billy Dinh
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, we had the pleasure of speaking with Brooklyn-based street photographer Billy Dinh, whose striking use of light and shadow has earned him international recognition - including a first-place award from The Independent Photographer in 2023. Billy shares his unconventional path into photography. Trained in illustration and painting, he discovered street photography almost by accident - after a break-in at his apartment and a chance encounter with another photographer. What began as a replacement camera soon became the start of a new artistic chapter. We discuss Billy’s evolution from landscapes to candid street scenes, the influence of his art background on his visual storytelling, and how he built a unique style by avoiding early imitation of others. The conversation also explores what “street photography” really means - and whether the label itself can be too limiting. Billy opens up about his creative process while traveling, the patience it takes to connect with new places, and how his most compelling work often emerges at the end of a trip. He also shares thoughts on emotional impact, composition, and how experimenting with focal lengths helps him tell layered stories. This episode offers a deep look into Billy’s artistic mindset - a thoughtful exploration of vision, emotion, and the beauty of everyday life captured through the lens. WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!
Oct 9, 2025 · 57 min
Sarah Simon
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, Mark and John had the pleasure of speaking with Sarah Simon, a talented street photographer who shared her unique journey into photography. Sarah's story is deeply personal, rooted in her experiences of loss, illness, and self-discovery. After the passing of her father in 2020, amidst the challenges of a divorce and health issues, she picked up a camera as a form of therapy and creative expression. Sarah discussed how her upbringing in Queens, New York, influenced her perspective and photography style. She emphasised the importance of intuition in her work, often allowing her gut feelings to guide her in capturing the chaotic beauty of the streets. Despite only being in the photography scene for a few years, her work reflects a maturity and depth that belies her experience. We explored her approach to shooting, which often involves a spontaneous and instinctual process rather than meticulous planning. Sarah also touched on her struggles with Lyme disease, which has impacted her ability to shoot frequently, yet she finds a sense of urgency and purpose in her photography during her healthier moments. Throughout our conversation, Sarah highlighted the significance of community, particularly her initiative to create a space for women street photographers. She shared her admiration for other photographers, including Daido Moriyama, whose work validated her own artistic journey. As we wrapped up, Sarah expressed her desire to leave behind a body of work that invites others to explore their own inner worlds and the beauty of life’s complexities. We also discussed her future projects, including a collaborative art book with a poet, and her aspirations to travel and shoot in new locations, particularly in Mozambique. This episode is a testament to the power of photography as a means of self-exploration and connection, and we are excited to see where Sarah's journey takes her next. Thank you for joining us on this insightful conversation! INSTAGRAM Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!
Sep 25, 2025 · 1 hr 7 min
Darren Sacks
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Street Life, John and Mark have the pleasure of welcoming UK-based street photographer Darren Sacks, whose unique and bold abstract style is transforming the mundane into the extraordinary. Recorded on a sunny day in London, we dive deep into Darren's artistic journey, exploring his striking use of vibrant colors, layered compositions, and his fascination with light, shadow, and reflection in urban landscapes. We kick off the conversation by discussing the comparisons often drawn between Darren and the legendary photographer Saul Leiter. Darren expresses his admiration for Leiter, acknowledging him as a significant inspiration while emphasising that he does not aim to emulate his work. Instead, he appreciates the way Leiter framed subjects and utilised layers and textures in his photography. Darren shares his early experiences with photography, revealing that he has always had a camera in hand, starting with a simple point-and-shoot. His passion for street photography ignited during a trip to New York over a decade ago, where he purchased his first proper SLR camera. As we delve into the technical aspects of his work, Darren discusses his preference for longer focal lengths, which contribute to the compressed look of his images. He reflects on his journey from using a Nikon to transitioning to Fuji and now primarily shooting with Sony. Darren also shares a pivotal moment in his career when he captured a photograph that combined various elements he had been exploring, solidifying his desire to continue pursuing street photography. He describes this image, taken on Jermyn Street in London, as a favourite that encapsulates his artistic vision. Throughout the episode, we touch on the importance of patience in street photography, with Darren recounting his experiences of waiting for the perfect moment to capture a shot. He candidly discusses the frustrations of shooting at night and in challenging conditions, emphasising the need for perseverance and adaptability. As the conversation progresses, we discuss Darren's recent exhibitions in Paris, Tokyo, and Hamburg, highlighting the honor of having his work displayed internationally. He reflects on the emotional connection he feels to his photographs and the significance of seeing them printed and exhibited. We also explore the evolving nature of photography in the digital age, discussing the impact of social media on artists and the importance of community. Darren shares his thoughts on the future of his work, expressing a desire to continue growing and pushing his creative boundaries, especially as he adapts to shooting in a quieter coastal environment. In closing, we reflect on the ever-changing landscape of street photography and the importance of finding one's unique voice within it. WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM Follow us on Instagram and leave us a review!