My name is Joe Redski. I am a street photographer who is currently living in Rye in East Sussex.
- Joe Redski Street & Event Photographer
- @joeredski.com
- www.joeredski.com
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How did you get started in photography, and what drew you to this art form?
I got started in photography about 10 years ago. I was looking for a new challenge in my life, and photography seems like a good marriage of creativity and technicality – I love art and tech things. I went on a mission by watching every YouTube video I could on the basics of photography and how to use a camera.
I have a rare disability in my arms called ‘Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita’, and I initially thought that I couldn’t do outdoor landscape or street photography, so I started shooting Still Life photography in my home. It wasn’t until much later in my photography journey that I realised that I could shoot photography outdoors. I was given a project to shoot book cover artwork for a horror novelist. I had to photograph a few different locations. When I started doing this I realised I absolutely love being outdoors shooting photos, as opposed to tripping over light stands in my home studio.
To help me mitigate the problem of being disabled when I’m shooting landscape or street photography, I sometimes use a wired or wireless shutter release cable to help me take photos. I also use a monopod or a selfie stick to support the cameras I use.
What is your preferred style or genre of photography, and why?
I love street photography because I love capturing the moment. I think it is the most challenging genre of photography as you have to constantly observe people, and situations, and look for different stories to tell in your images. Another reason I love it is that you don’t have to get up at 4 am to wait for a sunrise that might never materialise. With Street photography, you can shoot at any time of the day. Obviously, it is better to shoot Street photos when the weather is sunny or completely dreary.
My favourite time of day to shoot is nighttime. Everything takes on a different kind of ambience when it is dark and the streets are lit up by street lights and shop lights. It is so naturally atmospheric after nightfall.
How do you improve and develop your photography skills?
I improve and develop by taking photos regularly. My motto is Practice, practice, practice! I also enjoy looking at other photographer’s work and I think this gives you an idea of good and bad photography, depending on the photographer.
What equipment do you use and why?
I have two cameras. A Sony A7RIII and a Ricoh GRIII. When I am on the streets, I sometimes use a zoom lens on the Sony 28 – 75mm. The Ricoh has a fixed 28mm lens. But the beauty of this camera is that it’s so light and I can take photos really quickly.
Because of my disability, I have to use some kind of support for both cameras. On Sony, I use a monopod. And when I shoot with the pocket camera I have it attached to a selfie stick whilst using a wired shutter release cable.
What do you think is the most important element of a great photograph?
Light. A photograph with great composition and with a great story can look mediocre without beautiful light. But I would also say that a photograph with great light won’t necessarily look good if the composition is bad or there is no definable subject in the image.
What professional photographers have influenced your work?
I have always liked the work of Harold Feinstein. His 1949 photograph ‘Coney Island Teenagers’ is my favourite photo ever. All of his images are time capsules. To me, they are like movies distilled into an image.
How do you stay inspired and motivated as a photographer?
By keeping going out and taking photos.
How do you handle difficult shooting conditions or subjects?
I don’t really like shooting in cloudy weather, as there is no light. But if I do shoot when there is no light when I get home I will generally convert the image to black and white as monochrome adds a different vibe to colour and can hide the lack of light.
When you are shooting on the streets all subjects can be considered difficult because you have to find the right framing for composition. I just work quickly and hopefully, get a decent shot.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out in photography?
Keep on learning, and practice, practice, practice!
What do you hope your photography communicates to your audience, and why is this important to you?
As a disabled person, I did not think I could take photos. I struggle a lot with confidence and self-image, especially when I am out in public. But with perseverance, love and dedication, I found a way to keep my passion alive. If I can do it, so can anyone.
What editing software do you like to use for your finished photos?
I really like to use Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop. Once you learn how to use them it is really easy to edit photos. After so many years of using these programs, I find that it becomes like second nature when using the sliders. Plus they are constantly expanding their feature set which is great.
Read More:
- How to Shoot Black and White Street Photography
- Best Lenses for Street Photography
- 20 Do’s And Don’ts of Street Photography
