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Joel Meyerowitz: How I Make Photographs
The "Masters of Photography" series is a new approach to photography how-to. Each volume is dedicated to the work of one key photographer who, through a series of bite-sized lessons and ideas, tells you everything you always wanted to know about their approach to taking photographs. From their influences, ideas and experiences, to tech tips and best shots.
The series begins with Joel Meyerowitz, who will teach you, among other essentials: How to use a camera to reclaim the streets as your own, why you need to watch the world always with a sense of possibility, how to set your subjects at ease, and the importance of being playful and of finding a lens that suits your personality.
The series begins with Joel Meyerowitz, who will teach you, among other essentials: How to use a camera to reclaim the streets as your own, why you need to watch the world always with a sense of possibility, how to set your subjects at ease, and the importance of being playful and of finding a lens that suits your personality.
128 pages, Paperback
First published January 5, 2001
43 people are currently reading
528 people want to read
About the author
Joel Meyerowitz
74 books41 followersJoel Meyerowitz is an award-winning photographer whose work has appeared in over 350 exhibitions in museums and galleries around the world. He was born in New York in 1938 and began photographing in 1962. Meyerowitz is a “street photographer” in the tradition of Henri Cartier-Bresson and Robert Frank, although he works exclusively in color. As an early advocate of color photography (early-60’s) he was instrumental in changing the attitude toward color photography from one of resistance to nearly universal acceptance. His first book “Cape Light” is considered a classic work of color photography and has sold over 100,000 copies during its 26-year life. He has published nineteen other books including “Bystander: The History of Street Photography” and “Provence: Lasting Impressions.”
In 1998 Meyerowitz produced and directed his first film, ”POP”, an intimate diary of a three-week road trip he made with his son Sasha and his father, Hy. This odyssey has as its central character an unpredictable, street wise and witty 87-year-old with Alzheimer’s. It is both an open-eyed look at aging and a meditation on the significance of memory.
Within a few days of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center in New York, Meyerowitz began to create an archive of the destruction and recovery at Ground Zero. He was the only photographer who was granted unimpeded access to the site. Meyerowitz took a meditative stance toward the work and workers there, systematically documenting the painful work of rescue, recovery, demolition and excavation. The World Trade Center Archive includes more than 8,000 images and will be available for research, exhibition, and publication at museums in New York and Washington, DC.
In 2001 The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. State Department asked the Museum of the City of New York and Meyerowitz to create a special exhibition of images from the archive to send around the world. The images traveled to more than 200 cities in 60 countries and over three and a half million people viewed the exhibition.
In addition to the traveling shows, Meyerowitz was invited to represent the United States at the 8th Venice Biennale for Architecture with his photographs from the World Trade Center Archives. In September 2002, he exhibited 73 images – some as large as 22 feet – in lower Manhattan. Some recent books are: “Taking My Time”, his fifty year, two volume, retrospective book by Phaidon Press of London, “Provence: lasting Impressions,” co-authored with his wife Maggie Barrett, a book on the late work of Paul Strand by Aperture, "Glimpse": Photographs From Moving Car, which was a solo show at MoMA, and "Joel Meyerowitz Retrospective", published in conjunction with his recent show at NRW Forum in Dusseldorf.
Meyerowitz is a Guggenheim fellow and a recipient of both the NEA and NEH awards. His work is in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art, the Boston Museum of Fine Art, The Art Institute of Chicago, and many others.
In 1998 Meyerowitz produced and directed his first film, ”POP”, an intimate diary of a three-week road trip he made with his son Sasha and his father, Hy. This odyssey has as its central character an unpredictable, street wise and witty 87-year-old with Alzheimer’s. It is both an open-eyed look at aging and a meditation on the significance of memory.
Within a few days of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center in New York, Meyerowitz began to create an archive of the destruction and recovery at Ground Zero. He was the only photographer who was granted unimpeded access to the site. Meyerowitz took a meditative stance toward the work and workers there, systematically documenting the painful work of rescue, recovery, demolition and excavation. The World Trade Center Archive includes more than 8,000 images and will be available for research, exhibition, and publication at museums in New York and Washington, DC.
In 2001 The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. State Department asked the Museum of the City of New York and Meyerowitz to create a special exhibition of images from the archive to send around the world. The images traveled to more than 200 cities in 60 countries and over three and a half million people viewed the exhibition.
In addition to the traveling shows, Meyerowitz was invited to represent the United States at the 8th Venice Biennale for Architecture with his photographs from the World Trade Center Archives. In September 2002, he exhibited 73 images – some as large as 22 feet – in lower Manhattan. Some recent books are: “Taking My Time”, his fifty year, two volume, retrospective book by Phaidon Press of London, “Provence: lasting Impressions,” co-authored with his wife Maggie Barrett, a book on the late work of Paul Strand by Aperture, "Glimpse": Photographs From Moving Car, which was a solo show at MoMA, and "Joel Meyerowitz Retrospective", published in conjunction with his recent show at NRW Forum in Dusseldorf.
Meyerowitz is a Guggenheim fellow and a recipient of both the NEA and NEH awards. His work is in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art, the Boston Museum of Fine Art, The Art Institute of Chicago, and many others.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
June 11, 2020
The first of the Masters Of Photography series, in this book award winning photographer Joel Meyerowitz gives his tips on the rewarding art of street photography. Covering subjects such as composition, lens choice and how to put your subject at ease, Meyerowitz tells us what to look out for while out and about with our cameras. Packed with stunning images from the streets, this book is an inspiration to any photographers, no matter which genre they prefer. I'm now looking forward to venturing out this weekend, camera in tow, to put some of these tips into practice.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2020
I have a passion for street photography. This is a book I'd highly recommend to anyone interested in street photography; from beginner to advanced, you'll find something to help you here.
Joel Meyerowitz says, "Once you have a camera in your hand, you have a license to see."
Meyerowitz talks of his relationship with his father, who encouraged him to look at everyday stories in the street. The enthusiasm of the father was soon to become the same for Joel.
Working at an agency he assisted renowned photographer Robert Frank; and that one day of assistance led him to the passion of his life.
From that day onward he embraced the smells, the colors, and the stories of the streets. From that one day he saw everything differently.
Starting out he says that the process is all about finding your identity as an artist and as a human being who is interested in the world around you. He encourages me, the reader, to accept my insecurities ... act... and the very act of taking photographs will lead me to becoming a better photographer.
He talks of the importance of books as reference... immersing myself in the work of others ... inspiration will give me ideas. He encourages me to analyze the how and why. And he tells me that when the well has run dry, and I've lost the inspiration to shoot, to look to books to reinvigorate and motivate.
He draws on photographic examples from Henri Cartier-Bresson and Diane Arbus, explaining his thoughts on their different styles.
He encourages me to own the street, understand that I share it, and I have the right to take photographs. He inspires me to be courageous, be pleasant, smile - ultimately to engage with people in the street.
He encourages me to understand that those important moments will come... to keep shooting, stay present, watch for occurrences or stories that will develop and present themselves. Be ready.. watch.. anticipate. Watch & be present for emotions, gestures or actions that will lead me to that special moment.
He suggests making connections with subjects, and trying street portraiture. He says, "Once you begin making a portrait, a special energy between you and the subject comes into being. You have entered their private existence and engaged with them, and they have accepted your move."
He writes about finding the story. Ultimately this is what the street photographer wants - a compelling story told by a photograph. An example is his famous Paris photograph showing a man who's fallen to the pavement. People step over and around him, seemingly uninterested in making an effort to help him.
He encourages me to be open to the humorous events or situations that unfold around me.
He tells me that sometimes, the small gestures or happenings can have the greatest impact, so ... get in close. Look for the details that will help me make a great story,
He tells me to embrace my head as well as heart; looking for the elements that will, in combination, make a great photograph. The right light, the right angle, and subject. To always be on the lookout for the right subject, time and place.
He talks of body language and communication, moving to affect your shot or affect your subject in their movement. Being respectful.. being invisible at times.. introducing yourself at times... to accomplish a result.
The right camera and the right style.. they're personal choices.
He encourages me to be creative in the placement of my subject in the frame. The center isn't necessarily best.
He offers me notes on composition, encourages me to push myself to create something bigger than myself.
He inspires me to create projects and collections.
"As you become more sensitive to the way photography works, and to your own instincts, you will enlarge your emotional and visual capacity, and that will allow you to see your world in a richer, more complex way."
This book is an easy read. Not a table top book - nothing fancy - perfect size for your camera bag.
Five stars for the inspiration alone. Highly recommended.
Joel Meyerowitz says, "Once you have a camera in your hand, you have a license to see."
Meyerowitz talks of his relationship with his father, who encouraged him to look at everyday stories in the street. The enthusiasm of the father was soon to become the same for Joel.
Working at an agency he assisted renowned photographer Robert Frank; and that one day of assistance led him to the passion of his life.
From that day onward he embraced the smells, the colors, and the stories of the streets. From that one day he saw everything differently.
Starting out he says that the process is all about finding your identity as an artist and as a human being who is interested in the world around you. He encourages me, the reader, to accept my insecurities ... act... and the very act of taking photographs will lead me to becoming a better photographer.
He talks of the importance of books as reference... immersing myself in the work of others ... inspiration will give me ideas. He encourages me to analyze the how and why. And he tells me that when the well has run dry, and I've lost the inspiration to shoot, to look to books to reinvigorate and motivate.
He draws on photographic examples from Henri Cartier-Bresson and Diane Arbus, explaining his thoughts on their different styles.
He encourages me to own the street, understand that I share it, and I have the right to take photographs. He inspires me to be courageous, be pleasant, smile - ultimately to engage with people in the street.
He encourages me to understand that those important moments will come... to keep shooting, stay present, watch for occurrences or stories that will develop and present themselves. Be ready.. watch.. anticipate. Watch & be present for emotions, gestures or actions that will lead me to that special moment.
He suggests making connections with subjects, and trying street portraiture. He says, "Once you begin making a portrait, a special energy between you and the subject comes into being. You have entered their private existence and engaged with them, and they have accepted your move."
He writes about finding the story. Ultimately this is what the street photographer wants - a compelling story told by a photograph. An example is his famous Paris photograph showing a man who's fallen to the pavement. People step over and around him, seemingly uninterested in making an effort to help him.
He encourages me to be open to the humorous events or situations that unfold around me.
He tells me that sometimes, the small gestures or happenings can have the greatest impact, so ... get in close. Look for the details that will help me make a great story,
He tells me to embrace my head as well as heart; looking for the elements that will, in combination, make a great photograph. The right light, the right angle, and subject. To always be on the lookout for the right subject, time and place.
He talks of body language and communication, moving to affect your shot or affect your subject in their movement. Being respectful.. being invisible at times.. introducing yourself at times... to accomplish a result.
The right camera and the right style.. they're personal choices.
He encourages me to be creative in the placement of my subject in the frame. The center isn't necessarily best.
He offers me notes on composition, encourages me to push myself to create something bigger than myself.
He inspires me to create projects and collections.
"As you become more sensitive to the way photography works, and to your own instincts, you will enlarge your emotional and visual capacity, and that will allow you to see your world in a richer, more complex way."
This book is an easy read. Not a table top book - nothing fancy - perfect size for your camera bag.
Five stars for the inspiration alone. Highly recommended.
March 3, 2025
Kinda wished he talked about every figure. But better to have more photos than too few. Cool book!
May 4, 2020
More reviews (and no fluff) on the blog http://surrealtalvi.wordpress.com/
Photography is a huge subject that falls into many categories: macro, nature, portrait, event, and with this book, street. And while many aspects of photography are universal across the disciplines, I feel those looking to become or enhance/analyze street photography will find this most inspiring and useful. Street photography isn't about just candid portraiture and certainly Meyerowitz was fortunate to grow up in a major city (New York) that has provided him with so much inspiration. From amusingly lit alleyway doors to a screaming child in front of a car, it's so much about patience, positioning, and especially moment. And while most of the portraits are from the 1960s and 1970s, I appreciate the time Mr. Meyerowitz has put into a heartfelt discussion of his craft.Most of the book is small chapters of tips with 3-4 photographs and accompanying text. They are brief: about five pages each. Topics range from finding inspiration, not being bashful, capturing the defining moment (a la Cartier-Bresson), using your head and heart, composition ideas, knowing your camera, color or black and white, light as a subject, etc.. In very personal text, Meyerowitz describes how he came about his craft and how his past influenced his ability to capture some of his most engaging images. It's always a pleasure to read a photographer's own words/descriptions for his images.
Yes, at times this felt like an endless advertisement for the Master of Photography videos. E.g., quite a few times, we are given rather useless product placement. E.g, "When I was out filming the Master of Photography series, I came across this spot......." It's just useless information thrown in there more as a hard sell than adding to the conversation or understanding of the art or an image. The acknowledgement at the end of how much Meyerowitz like working with the people at Masters of Photography probably tells a lot about why he put in so much product placement. But it is always a turn off when someone tries so hard to plug something.
I always look for interesting discussions of equipment as much as a final image's meaning. But there isn't a lot here about the equipment other than that Meyerowitz hated the 50mm and stuck with the 35MM. This is definitely a book about inspiration rather than technical, with a hard focus on capturing decisive moments and what to do to ensure the stars align for the perfect shot.
As a portrait photographer, I don't do a lot of street photography and instead concentrate on the commercial aspect of selling my work to public and private sectors. So there wasn't enough in there for me in that regard; if I shot my clients as Meyerowitz does, I wouldn't sell much (which is why I am probably a terrible street photographer and should use this book as a stepping board to shoot that more). What I got most from the book is that the man has a great heart and truly loves photography. That his greatest asset is his ability to be genial and put people at ease so they give him images that are candid and meaningful. Reviewed from an advance reader copy provided by the publisher.
February 8, 2023
Excellent little book for any photographer needing a nudge, or validation of their process, written by one of the greatest living photographers. Much of this advice I've already encountered on YouTube, but there's something nice about reading his words, and viewing his photography, at your own pace then applying his process to your own experience, or even not. My favourite passage is "Anything we do with passion, obsession or desire teaches us not only about the medium we're using but about ourselves.".
December 17, 2025
Joel Meyerowitz แกมาเล่าไอเดีย มุมมองต่างๆ ของเขา วิธีคิดในการถ่ายภาพของเขา เป็นบทเล็กๆ 20 บท พร้อมภาพประกอบ มันไม่ได้มีเทคนิคอลอะไรเลย แต่ให้มุมมองที่น่าสนใจ
August 3, 2024
Ugh so inspired. Need to dig up my dslr and change my profession.
June 30, 2021
Loved the his perspective of taking photographs.
Read
February 4, 2023It’s a kind of illustrated pamphlet celebrating basic axiomatic truths of street photography. The main ideas are listed as chapter titles, and then briefly elaborated by a series of micro-narratives from the author's life. After reading through it, I realized the book is something like an advertisement for a course you can buy online. I found it to be shallow treatment of the subject when I read it, but I can also imagine this concise presentation helping someone who's missed out on some basic art/photography classes, and conversations about the subjective qualities of photographic images.
Many of Meyerowtiz' other book-works are truly excellent, check out these instead:
Creating A Sense of Place (1990,) part of Smithsonian's Photographers at Work series begins with an interview that is far more successful at drawing out some of the photographer's tacit knowledge about his craft than this book.
Cape Light (1978) gives insight into his views on color photography, and what it's capable of describing in an image.
Tuscany (2003) has very brief descriptive essays written by his wife accompanying the photos. In several of these books Meyerowitz discusses the idea that what catches a photographer's attention, and the images each one captures, is illustrative of that individual's character, wit, and imagination. This book gives a lot of insight into his own.
Aftermath (2006) for a phenomenal story of ambition and perseverance to document ground zero after 9/11.
And finally, look at the street photographer's bible Bystander for the best history of street photography there is.
Many of Meyerowtiz' other book-works are truly excellent, check out these instead:
Creating A Sense of Place (1990,) part of Smithsonian's Photographers at Work series begins with an interview that is far more successful at drawing out some of the photographer's tacit knowledge about his craft than this book.
Cape Light (1978) gives insight into his views on color photography, and what it's capable of describing in an image.
Tuscany (2003) has very brief descriptive essays written by his wife accompanying the photos. In several of these books Meyerowitz discusses the idea that what catches a photographer's attention, and the images each one captures, is illustrative of that individual's character, wit, and imagination. This book gives a lot of insight into his own.
Aftermath (2006) for a phenomenal story of ambition and perseverance to document ground zero after 9/11.
And finally, look at the street photographer's bible Bystander for the best history of street photography there is.
April 10, 2025
“Something appears, you have a gut response, and then your mind comes into play—should I or shouldn’t I? When that happens, I think you should.” —page 94
Reading this book is like traveling through a vibrant art gallery with a knowledgeable guide; just as the guide helps you appreciate the nuances of each piece, Meyerowitz helps you notice and capture the subtleties in the world around you.
One of the key takeaways is the reminder that we’re all human, existing in every shape, size, and color.
"Photography isn’t about making fun of anyone; it’s about showing the world as it is and how people interact within it." —page 20
This perspective is not only refreshing but helps to shake off the nerves of any street photographer aiming to capture that decisive moment.
Meyerowitz also encourages photographers to use their craft as a tool to break free from their own creative limitations.
“Photography holds the secret of how to get out of the corners we paint ourselves into.” —page 77
It’s an inspiring way to look at the medium—not just as a way to document the world, but as a way to push past personal barriers.
Meyerowitz's discussion of 'framing' is particularly useful for any budding photographer as his definition of framing is quite open-ended. He suggests building a composition by starting with a single subject and then layering additional elements onto it (page 63). Instead of searching for a complex, multi-layered scene all at once, his approach allows for a more organic, structured way to create depth in photographs.
One of the most interesting techniques he introduces is called ‘The Frieze’—a specific approach for layering, especially in street photography. It’s about first finding a single, eye-catching frame—whether a building, a decorative structure, or anything that stands out—and then waiting for people to move into the scene, adding dynamic layers to the composition. This method is a game-changer for photographers who struggle with balancing structure and spontaneity.
Beyond creative composition, the book also provides technical insights. Meyerowitz covers essential photography concepts like f-stops, metering modes, and exposure techniques, making it a well-rounded read for both beginners and experienced photographers.
Overall, this book is a fascinating look into the mind of one of the most influential photographers of our time.
October 20, 2020
Joel Meyerowitz is a renowned street photographer, long before the term became a familiar recognised genre (or subgenre of documentary photography). Once working as an art director, after an encounter with photographer Robert Frank, he quit his job and set out with a Pentax camera. Meyerowitz is known for his recording of street life in his native New York City, covering a span of several decades.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UaU2-...
Meyerowitz features in the Masters of Photography online course. To complement this programme, there is a planned series of short books; How I Make Photographs is the first in the series.
This book is a collection of 20 short essays, accompanied by related images from Meyerowitz’s extensive catalogue. The chapters are easy to read and the images are used to good effect. The style of writing is that of a calm and kind conversation.
Meyerowitz shares his wisdom with the reader. He wants us to trust our passions and not to hesitate when making photographs. Not family album snaps but images that show the mystery and magic of people. It can be uncomfortable dealing with the chaos of the street, but if you show warmth and sympathy, you can reflect that in your images; yet resilience helps. Keep a sense of awe and keep your eyes open. Anticipate the moment—through practice. Make portraits through relationships. Let your images tell a story. See the visual humour of daily life. Look for the details of gestures. Challenge your inventiveness. Find a lens that suits your personality—but wide is better. Pay attention to composition (get your subject off centre). If a project excites you, go into it with an open heart and lots of energy. Reflect on your style and what you’re subconsciously been drawn to and make something of it. Give your work form and meaning.
The book took me less than two hours to finish. Indeed, one can see a purpose of this book as providing a taster of more insightful learning from the full Masters of Photography course. And that is fine, because this small but well formed book is a delight to read and be inspired by. How I Make Photographs can be a pick-me-up to remind you that documenting the everyday can be satisfying and a valuable element of discovering yourself and the world around you.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UaU2-...
Meyerowitz features in the Masters of Photography online course. To complement this programme, there is a planned series of short books; How I Make Photographs is the first in the series.
This book is a collection of 20 short essays, accompanied by related images from Meyerowitz’s extensive catalogue. The chapters are easy to read and the images are used to good effect. The style of writing is that of a calm and kind conversation.
Meyerowitz shares his wisdom with the reader. He wants us to trust our passions and not to hesitate when making photographs. Not family album snaps but images that show the mystery and magic of people. It can be uncomfortable dealing with the chaos of the street, but if you show warmth and sympathy, you can reflect that in your images; yet resilience helps. Keep a sense of awe and keep your eyes open. Anticipate the moment—through practice. Make portraits through relationships. Let your images tell a story. See the visual humour of daily life. Look for the details of gestures. Challenge your inventiveness. Find a lens that suits your personality—but wide is better. Pay attention to composition (get your subject off centre). If a project excites you, go into it with an open heart and lots of energy. Reflect on your style and what you’re subconsciously been drawn to and make something of it. Give your work form and meaning.
The book took me less than two hours to finish. Indeed, one can see a purpose of this book as providing a taster of more insightful learning from the full Masters of Photography course. And that is fine, because this small but well formed book is a delight to read and be inspired by. How I Make Photographs can be a pick-me-up to remind you that documenting the everyday can be satisfying and a valuable element of discovering yourself and the world around you.
May 15, 2020
I thought this book was an interesting approach to "edu-art-tainment." I think it's aimed for people who not only enjoy looking at photography, but perhaps are into the hobby of photography and want to improve. It's aspirational and inspirational. I don't think the audience for this book is anyone who has worked in the field of photography for a long time or who already knows their own aethetic or process. Meyerowitz has imparted wisdom in many venues and formats over the years, and is generous with his views on photography, so I found the content not especially groundbreaking. Additionally, he is rather a classic street photographer, which while that is still a thriving subgenre in photography, it isn't what I would describe as the contemporary photographic zeitgeist. As such, I think this would be a good gift for someone looking to get into photography, or someone who especially enjoys Meyerowitz' work and would like to know more about his thought process.
*I received a digital copy of this book via NetGalley for review*
*I received a digital copy of this book via NetGalley for review*
February 28, 2021
Nice to see some of Meyerowitz’s photos along with some tips and anecdotes. My favorite passage is when he talks about using large format in Cape Code (coincidentally the Meyerowitz book I have that clued me in to his work isn’t on his street photography, but Cape Light):
“One of the first things I discovered was that a large-format camera sees into the oncoming darkness. It’s as if time adds light to the photograph. I found myself struck by the beauty of dusk and how this big camera could stand there, like a faithful companion, and show me all the information that was there.
Early in my time in Cape Cod, I developed a whole body of work around the idea of dusk, of ‘entre chien et loup.’ That French expression translates literally as ‘between the dog and the wolf,’ but really it means between the known and the unknown, or the tame and the wild. That blue hour can sometimes evoke feelings of fear. There is also a kind of ambiguity, and that appealed to me.”
“One of the first things I discovered was that a large-format camera sees into the oncoming darkness. It’s as if time adds light to the photograph. I found myself struck by the beauty of dusk and how this big camera could stand there, like a faithful companion, and show me all the information that was there.
Early in my time in Cape Cod, I developed a whole body of work around the idea of dusk, of ‘entre chien et loup.’ That French expression translates literally as ‘between the dog and the wolf,’ but really it means between the known and the unknown, or the tame and the wild. That blue hour can sometimes evoke feelings of fear. There is also a kind of ambiguity, and that appealed to me.”
January 19, 2023
Joel Meyerowitz is the veteran New York Street photographer, with a lifetime of photographic experience since the 1960's. He makes little or no attempt to explain the technicalities of the gear or the process. His objective is clear, namely to explain how to think as a photographer and what to look for. He covers things like following the light, and composition etc, but his advice, frequently, is to throw away the rulebook and understand the importance of thinking intuitively, and going with your gut feeling at the moment, and growing in that sense of intuition by practice.
If, like me, you love rules and methods and conventions, you will find Joel Meyerowitz as liberating as I have. I need to read more of his books and see more of his photographs; photographs which (he emphasises) he 'makes', not 'takes.' Very helpful!
If, like me, you love rules and methods and conventions, you will find Joel Meyerowitz as liberating as I have. I need to read more of his books and see more of his photographs; photographs which (he emphasises) he 'makes', not 'takes.' Very helpful!
August 14, 2024
- One you have a camera in your hand, you have a license to see.
- Use books as a library of ideas to encourage you to go out and search for the things that make you feel that your instincts are valid and valuable.
- photography is all about responding to the things that call your attention and staying connected to them. Those different photographs give you a sense of your identity.
- the camera is saying gogo take me somewhere take me on an adventure. Whether you're at an individual site outside of a small town or walking through a plaza in a major city, it's all there waiting for you.
- we must spend ourselves freely. I have taken that as my guide to photography and the potential it offers, and in my way of continuously adding new experiences to my life.
- Use books as a library of ideas to encourage you to go out and search for the things that make you feel that your instincts are valid and valuable.
- photography is all about responding to the things that call your attention and staying connected to them. Those different photographs give you a sense of your identity.
- the camera is saying gogo take me somewhere take me on an adventure. Whether you're at an individual site outside of a small town or walking through a plaza in a major city, it's all there waiting for you.
- we must spend ourselves freely. I have taken that as my guide to photography and the potential it offers, and in my way of continuously adding new experiences to my life.
May 31, 2021
This book is so charming and personal. Feels like Meyerowitz wrote a 'how to' for a friend. I like the phrase "making" photographs rather than "taking" them; it gives a sense of agency and creativity to the artist, which is exactly what I think a photographer is. There is zero pretension here. Meyerowitz doesn't tell you to run out and spend wads of money on a fancy camera. He instructs you to pick something that feels good to you and get out there. Let the streets, light, scenery, people guide your photos. This is essential reading for anyone interested in photography.
September 17, 2025
As a fan of Joel Meyerowitz's work, I was excited to get more details and insight into this thought process behind why he takes certain photographs. Unfortunately this book is not that. If you have watched any interview of Joel's, you have essentially read this book. While it has some tiny nuggets of insight and of course Joel's fantastic photographs, it has hardly any substance that would help you become a better photographer.
I really love Joel's work, but as for his process and insight I think you can glean more from watching his interviews on YouTube.
I really love Joel's work, but as for his process and insight I think you can glean more from watching his interviews on YouTube.
January 5, 2021
Great little book that draws attention on how to feel photography and not the tools you’ve got. Something that I was really looking for. It makes you think and see the photography in a different perspective. It shows you some tips on how to make the image, what to look for in the scene but also very helpful things on the final process of editing the image.
Highly recommended. Loved it very much.
Highly recommended. Loved it very much.
September 17, 2021
Friendly, insightful, and thought-provoking. This is not a "how-to" book to take perfect, Instagram-worthy photographs but more of a chat about photography. Joel is a wonderful teacher, and this short book covers topics from how to use light, composition, and humor in street photography. It also includes photographs taken for this book and several photographs from his portfolio over the year. I will be revisiting this book often.
April 5, 2022
Compré este libro porque un amigo me lo recomendó y me encantó. Conocía poco del trabajo del fotógrafo pero me agradaba bastante. El libro quizás no aborde nada nuevo si eres alguien que ya hace foto, pero la forma en que describe sus experiencias y sus consejos hace que uno como fotógrafo se emocione. De mi parte ya hacía foto pero el libro igual me hizo replantearme muchas cosas y sentirme emocionado y con ganas de salir a tomar fotos.
October 3, 2024
This is a very good book. Joel Meyerowitz is one of the best. And he tells his story, in a very logically built way. Chapter by chapter. Showing some of his master photos from the 60ies, 70ies, 80ies up to present day. His account on how he managed to be the only Photographer inside the ruins of the world trade center is touching and interresting. I only wish he had included even more pf his photos.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2020
One of my very favorite photographers. While the book was smaller the n stature than I thought it would be when I ordered it - it is still worth your time. It’s a basic overview of his photographic development with images spanning approximately 4 decades. His comments on each photo and the reasons why he was drawn to making the image are both elucidating and inspirational.
November 7, 2020
Si ya practicas foto de calle desde algún tiempo te anticipo que Meyerowitz va a decirte lo que ya sabes. Sin embargo, lo dice con tanta poética que valdrá la pena leerlo y terminarás el libro con el impulso de querer salir a la calle y vivir todo eso que ya sabes y que te acaban de volver a decir. La iluminación no viene precisamente de lo que dice sino de cómo lo dice. Meyerowitz es un genio.
January 8, 2023
A neat book on Meyerowitz’s thoughts on how he photographs. Divided into 20 chapters, each of which is a guideline on his philosophy behind taking a picture.
The first few chapters are how to get into the right frame of mind and physical location to make theme shot. This is followed by ideas on what makes interesting photos and he ends with a few of his more camera and selection techniques.
The first few chapters are how to get into the right frame of mind and physical location to make theme shot. This is followed by ideas on what makes interesting photos and he ends with a few of his more camera and selection techniques.
June 3, 2025
Picked up at the Leica store in Wetzlar. I have been looking for some great street photography examples and some general inspiration. This book delivered! I’ll be reading again and looking at the photos inside regularly I’m sure. What a great book. So helpful for becoming an artist and taking up your own space…
June 22, 2020
Really picks up steam in the last few chapters with the more philosophical aspects of photography. Having read it, I don't think I'd pay for the course that accompanies it, but it's a good pickup for anyone working on their craft.
July 16, 2021
Meyerowitz is very much an instinctive photographer, whose analysis of his own art has developed, in part, retrospectively. This is less of a guide book and more of a personal commentary therefore, although it does guide, albeit generally and implicitly.
September 25, 2021
Great (quick) read. I love street photography and having no training, there’s a lot to ponder in this. It’s written with a straightforward style and a lot of practical examples which I appreciate. Expect I’ll come back to it, started experimenting with some of the suggestions today.
September 27, 2023
Joel talking about making photos is awesome, Joel talking about his photos gets in the way. The photos are incredible, of course. But man, sometimes it felt like a total drag to read how he read his own photos
February 27, 2024
Wow… Just wow. Everything I’ve felt and experienced with photography put into words. The exposure balancing tip at the end was excellent. His work on Ground Zero moved me. Joel Meyerowitz changed photography for the better.
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