Review by Lucien, The Netherlands
Had a blast during this photo workshop, and some great fun too!
One that was one my bucket lust, and it did not disappoint AT ALL!!
Coincidences have a wonderful way of sneaking into our lives, and recently, one helped me tick a big item off my bucket list: street photography in New York City. As someone who travels the world giving keynotes, I’ve always found joy in taking a little extra time before or after work to explore new places—not just as a speaker, but as a curious observer behind the lens, always carrying a camera with me.
From Landscapes to City Life. For years, my camera has pointed mostly at sweeping landscapes and city skylines. But lately, things have shifted. It’s the rhythm of the city, the architecture, snippets of local life, and above all, the pulse and mood of a place that fascinates me most. There’s something magnetic about immersing yourself in a city’s unique vibe, camera-ready.
A Workshop in the Heart of NYC. A recent assignment in New York presented the perfect opportunity to dive deeper into this passion: A street photography workshop with Leanne Staples , a seasoned local photographer and tour guide in one. We kicked things off with a rich espresso at a lively barista bar tucked inside Grand Central Station, trading stories and laughs before hitting the bustling streets.
Those next few hours? Nothing short of magical. Leanne Staples was my guide through both iconic avenues and hidden corners, teaching me to see—and capture—New York as only a true local could. What surprised me was how easygoing New Yorkers are about having their photos taken, a stark contrast to what I’m used to in Europe! (Trust me, Leanne had some colourful ways of explaining this difference.)
Lessons from the Street : Leanne’s simple yet powerful advice opened my eyes (and camera) to new tricks:
• Play with reflections on glass and steel.
• Try unexpected angles and perspectives.
• Exercise patience—sometimes the perfect subject will step right into your frame if you just wait a moment longer.
Back in my hotel room, I found myself reliving the day, editing photos to enhance the light, contrast, and colour. Those edits sealed the experiences into vivid memories, leaving me hungry for more adventures—whether in New York, Barcelona, Prague, or even my own hometown of Roermond.
Why You Should Give It a Try: If you’re ever in New York and want a blend of mentorship, creative inspiration, and the quick-witted humour only a true New Yorker like Leanne can deliver, she’s the coach you need. Her practical tips, seasoned insights, and playful banter made every minute worthwhile.
Street photography isn’t just about snapping pictures—it’s about capturing the spirit of a place, celebrating its people, and maybe seeing the world (and yourself) from a brand-new angle.
So, next time you’re traveling, set aside a few hours to wander with your camera, like I do. You never know what you’ll find—or how it might change the way you see your surroundings. And be sure to always carry a camera!