Featured Street Photographer of the Week: Alexandre Fedi

Alexandre Fedi’s Flickr photostream is full of beautiful high contrast images. Sometimes they cause tension and sometimes harmony. It is an effect that makes each image hold your attention and keeps you coming back for more. Enjoy Alexandre’s images and this mini interview with the talented photographer himself.

What drew you to street photography initially?

I live in Paris, and I’ve always been passionate about urban cultures, street art, architecture. When I started out with photography it was in the year 2014. I tried different things, but naturally, urban landscapes and street photography were my favorites.

I see a lot of sharp contrasts in your images, do you seek out specific places or lighting to achieve this?

First of all, I’m looking for great light! Most often, I’m looking for graphic compositions that represent urban people in their environment. I love playing with shapes, textures, contrasts and shadows, but I’ve not a specific place to shoot. I love “La Defense”, a famous business place in Paris with amazing architecture, and many other places.

Do you ever interact with your subjects? Why or why not?

I’m a kind man :), very open to interact, but I’ll never talk to the people I shoot. I know this subject is very subversive in street photography. I always respect my subjects, and if someone asked me not to take the picture, I will not do it.

Who is your biggest source of inspiration?

My biggest source of inspiration: Other street photographers. My masters: Saul Leiter, Vivian Maïer, Henri Cartier Bresson, Brassaï… Recently, I love the work of Rui Palha, Rinzi Ruiz, Thomas Leuthard, Marius Vieth and many others!

I love walking in my city, I love losing myself and I love to be inspired.

Any gear, technique or post-processing tips and tricks you’d like to share with the newbies out there?

I currently use a Fuji x-t10 with two lenses: A 18mm and a 35mm. For beginners, I recommend taking a lot of pictures to improve them. Another tip, submit their best photos online to read the opinions of other people (on Flickr or Instagram, for example). Read books about photography, look at great pictures of Masters of photography, and try to understand how it works.

 

Go give Alexandre a follow on Flickr to see a lovely selection of photos that will teach you how to take advantage of strong sunlight when you’re out roaming the streets.