Journeying through the different worlds of imagery

Sultan Koç

The portrait in street photography

The portrait in street photography is extraordinary because there are no strict rules. Generally, these portraits fall into two categories: posed and candid. In posed photography, you typically ask for permission before taking a photo. In candid photography, however, you might encounter an interesting face and simply shoot without prior consent. Sometimes, the subject may ask about your intentions, which prompts you to ask for permission afterwards. Reactions vary significantly based on location; some people may express anger, others might feel apprehensive, while some will smile or even ask questions, eagerly wanting to see the photo. Photographers who enjoy close-up shots, like Gideon, often flash directly in their subjects' faces.

On the other hand, photographers like Leiter prefer a more secretive approach, capturing moments discreetly. Some, like Erwitt, focus on animals, prompting contemplation about humanity. Then there are those, like Diane Arbus, who excel at seizing fleeting expressions and exploring diversity in her subjects. But I still can't define his portraits staged, because there is all the uncertainty of fortuitous encounters.

I have included some famous images by renowned photographers. Now, I would like to compile a selection of portraits that have particularly struck me among our photographers.

Robert Doisneau, L’Information scolaire, Paris 1956, © Robert Doisneau

Vivian Mayer

Bruce Gilden

Robert Frank

Saul Leiter

Diane Arbus

Elliott Erwitt


John Gill

Alberto M Melis

Niklas Lindskog


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Journeying through the different worlds of imagery