Street photography thrives on strong composition and purposeful framing. Creating images that captivate often comes down to how effectively you use the space within your frame.
Coming to you from Rupert Vandervell of New Ways of Seeing, this engaging video explores techniques for framing and composition in street photography. Vandervell discusses how Alex Webb’s work offers prime examples of using every part of the frame intentionally. Webb’s photos are often complex, filled with disparate elements that somehow come together seamlessly. Vandervell highlights how examining Webb’s use of depth, color, and organization can help you refine your own approach. For instance, Webb’s strategic use of depth—such as a figure framed within a doorway—creates layers that add richness without introducing clutter. This perspective is invaluable when shooting in bustling urban environments.
Vandervell also contrasts Webb’s fuller, vibrant compositions with his own minimalist style. He uses a high-contrast black-and-white approach, relying on tight framing to maintain control over each element in his shots. For example, in one of Vandervell’s nighttime street scenes, the silhouetted figure of a man checking his clipboard anchors the composition. Surrounding architecture is stripped down to geometric shapes, keeping the viewer’s focus on the subject. Vandervell explains how controlled framing prevents distractions and allows the eye to naturally return to key points within the image. This method proves that minimalism can be as impactful as the more elaborate compositions Webb favors.
Another lesson is the importance of analyzing what belongs in your frame and what doesn’t. Vandervell shares how he sometimes anticipates where a subject might move to align them with a better background. In one example, he waited for a woman in a white dress to pass through an area framed by metal sculptures. The harsh, industrial setting contrasted sharply with her soft presence, creating a striking image. The use of spot metering on her dress ensured the whites popped while the shadows maintained depth. This kind of deliberate planning demonstrates how you can combine spontaneity with intentionality to produce compelling results.
The video also emphasizes the significance of studying other photographers’ work. Vandervell references a project he assigned to a student where she analyzed five Alex Webb photos. This exercise revealed how her eye moved through the images and how every detail played a role in the overall composition. You can apply this technique by selecting a photographer whose work inspires you and breaking down what makes their images successful. Observing the flow of elements, the use of light, and the placement of subjects can help you develop a more critical eye for your own photography. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Vandervell.
