One of the big trends in modern street photography is to showcase various elements that are completely unrelated but somehow work all together. This picture has no clear meaning or message, only the photographer really knows what was going on in this scene. So, for once, I’ll let your imagination wander. (Click on picture for high res)
Leica M8 with 35 Summicron IV
In a middle class neighbourhood of Buenos Aires, a man struggles to keep his footing while driving a dogs train.
Why so many dogs? Because it is probably the only way that owners can afford the service. Every peso counts in Argentina. As for the dogs, they seem to enjoy the walk. Well, at least the ones that drive the train. Not sure the sight is great in the back. (Click on picture for high res )
Leica M8 with 35mm Summicron at F5.6, 1/1000, ISO100
To find the best Chinese shadows in the city, head to Buenos Aires’s Chinatown.
Obvious ! (click on picture for high res)
Leica M8 with 35mm Summicron IV at F2.8, 1/8000, ISO160
Avenida Corrientes in Buenos Aires.
Four lanes of cars speeding down the one way street.
Thousands of shoppers rushing home before down falls on the city.
Suddenly I spot a couple kissing on the side of the road. I force my way into the crowd to get into position and quickly raise my camera to my eyes. In fear to lose the decisive moment, I quickly press the shutter.
“Sh.t !” (excuse my French)
Just as I hit the shutter, a few cars and a bunch of ladies suddenly intrude in my frame and sent my hopes of a good picture crashing. No chance for a second shot, the moment has ended and the couple has already moved on. Disgusted, I nervously peep at my LCD, mumble a few unpleasant words and almost hit the delete button. Yet somehow I don’t, forget about that shot, and resume the hunt.
Back from Buenos AIres two days later. I anxiously download the results of the weekend’s outing.
And suddenly I feel thrown back on Avenida Corrientes.
Four lanes of cars speeding down the one way street.
Thousands of shoppers rushing home before dawn falls on the city.
And a couple kissing, in the midst of chaos.
A surprising sighting in Buenos Aires since the gaucho look is more an attribute of the vast lands described as “the interior” by Argentines. Still, when it is market time, people come from all over the province to sell their goods in the upscale market of San Telmo. (click on pictures for high res)
Leica M8 with 35mm Summicron IV at F2.0, 1/350, ISO640
I have returned for a long weekend in Buenos Aires and will post the pictures of this outing over the coming days. The city is absolutely great for street photography, offering so many different settings and a vibrant atmosphere. I plan to visit a lot more in the coming months and maybe work on a dedicated series. I took my Leica M8 and tiny 35mm Summicron IV for this trip. Indeed, I wanted a combo that would not attract any unwanted attention and represent too much of a loss if stolen (well, this is obviously said in relative terms). Buenos Aires remains one of the most dangerous city in South america and while one can perfectly shoot street photography there, some caution and common sense is needed.
I’ll also post an interview with fellow street photography Ova Hamer which I had the pleasure to shoot with on Saturday.
Soon adults – Avenida Corrientes – Leica M8 with 35mm Summicron IV at F2.8, 1/250, ISO160
After a three hours drive from Rosario, we find ourselves in Buenos Aires for the weekend. Luckily, our ride was a bit more comfortable that the one this lady had to endure.
I won’t post any pictures taken here until Monday since I opted to travel without a computer. Also, I will meet a talented local street photographer tomorrow, more to come about this soon too.
Leica M9 with 50mm Summicron at F2.0