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Capture real emotions with powerful street portrait photography techniques
Blend subject and environment for compelling visual storytelling
Use optimized street photography camera settings for crisp results
Street photography is unpredictable but that’s exactly what makes it powerful.
In this street photography course, you’ll learn how to:
This is not just about taking photos, it’s about learning how to see moments, react quickly, and tell real human stories through street portrait photography.
If you’ve ever hesitated to shoot on the street, this course gives you the clarity and confidence to do it right.
This masterclass is part of the Street Photography Learning Path — a hands-on learning journey designed to help photographers capture authentic moments, improve observation skills, and create more dynamic street photographs through timing, composition, and storytelling.
Expert Instructor
Alex Coghe is an Italian documentary photographer, photojournalist, and editor whose work captures the raw, unvarnished realities of the human condition. Currently based in Mexico City, Coghe has spent over two decades developing a distinct visual signature characterized by high-contrast black-and-white imagery and the innovative use of Intentional Camera Movement (ICM). His career spans high-profile editorial assignments for global brands like Leica and Burberry, as well as features in premier publications such as France Football and L'Équipe. As a dedicated educator, publisher, and founder of The Street Photographer Notebook, Coghe is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of visual storytellers through his global "Gonzography" workshops and independent photography awards.
View instructor’s classesStart with a friendly smile and approach them respectfully. Explain that you're a photographer and ask if they'd be open to having their photo taken. Most people appreciate the compliment!
Not at all! While professional gear can help, a good street portrait can be taken with a smartphone or any camera you have. Focus more on lighting, composition, and connection than the gear itself.
Natural light is your best friend. Early mornings or late afternoons (golden hour) offer soft, flattering light. If you're shooting at midday, look for shaded areas to avoid harsh shadows.
Be friendly, show genuine interest, and keep the conversation light. If your subject feels at ease, it will show in the photo. Always ask if they’re comfortable and give them control over the process.
Respect their decision without hesitation. Thank them for their time and move on. It's important to be polite and considerate at all times.
You can shoot candidly by blending into the environment, using a smaller camera, and anticipating moments. The course teaches timing and positioning techniques to capture natural expressions.
Strong composition comes from balancing subject, background, and light. This course shows how to use framing, leading lines, and environmental context to create impactful images.
Street photography captures spontaneous moments, while street portraits focus more on individuals, often with interaction. This course bridges both styles for more powerful storytelling.
Confidence comes from practice, clear intent, and understanding human interaction. This masterclass helps you overcome fear and approach subjects more naturally.
Common mistakes include poor timing, cluttered backgrounds, and hesitation when approaching subjects. The masterclass helps you avoid these and shoot with more intention.
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