Joel Meyerowitz, a highly influential American photographer, is celebrated for his mastery in capturing raw human emotions in everyday settings. Inspired by the legendary Robert Frank, Meyerowitz’s style emphasizes framing, composition, and emotion rather than technical perfection alone. His work spans more than five decades, showcasing his dedication to exploring and redefining street photography, both in color and black-and-white. This article delves into Meyerowitz’s techniques, his choice of equipment, and the philosophical underpinnings of his approach to street photography.

Meyerowitz believes that photography is not merely about arranging objects within a frame but about capturing the essence of the human experience. This notion of photography as an emotional medium was largely inspired by watching Frank in action. In his own work, Meyerowitz aims to bring out a story within each frame, encouraging viewers to connect with his subjects on a personal level. Whether it’s a portrait or a street scene, his goal is to reveal the layers of emotion that lie beneath the surface.

Meyerowitz’s style reflects a web of influences from other iconic photographers, such as Bruce Gilden and Irving Penn. Although they have distinctive techniques, these photographers share a commitment to authenticity and personal expression. Meyerowitz’s body of work shows a mix of these influences while maintaining his own unique style. Unlike others who may have signature styles easily recognized, Meyerowitz’s versatility makes his work harder to categorize, yet distinct in its resonance and depth.

Meyerowitz's portfolio predominantly features 35mm color street photography, through which he captures intricate layers of visual and emotional interaction. His famous street portraits are noted for their spontaneity and authenticity, often showing pairs or symmetrical elements. His compositions incorporate elements of mirroring or symmetry, capturing moments of serendipity that feel carefully crafted but are naturally occurring. Meyerowitz’s focus on these compositional techniques underlines his dedication to showing human behavior in its purest, most unfiltered form.

Early in his career, Meyerowitz experimented with black-and-white photography, viewing it as a way to engage with the art world. Over time, however, he transitioned back to color, realizing that his ultimate goal was to depict life as it is seen by the eye. For Meyerowitz, color brought out nuances in texture, light, and mood that black-and-white couldn't capture, aligning better with his mission to portray reality in its entirety. This transition reflects his philosophy that art should be truthful to its subjects.

Meyerowitz’s choice of camera has evolved over time. He often uses a 35mm lens, which aligns with his belief in capturing scenes that resemble the natural perspective of the human eye. Today, he often uses the Fuji X100F and Rolleiflex 2.8F, mimicking his earlier 35mm setup. These cameras allow him the flexibility to engage with his subjects up close or capture broader scenes, both crucial to his street photography style. The Rolleiflex, with its unique look, even serves as a conversation starter with subjects, acting as a bridge to connect with people in an authentic, unguarded way.

For those interested in learning Meyerowitz’s techniques, he offers a comprehensive online course covering five hours of lessons on street photography. The course invites students into his world, sharing practical tips and insights as he navigates urban landscapes. By focusing on intuition, observation, and storytelling, Meyerowitz equips his students with tools to capture the unexpected and embrace their unique perspectives.

Joel Meyerowitz has reshaped the way we view and practice street photography, transforming everyday scenes into powerful narratives. Through his focus on emotion, intuition, and observation, he brings a depth to his work that resonates across generations. For aspiring photographers, his lessons offer a pathway to seeing the world with fresh eyes, capturing the beauty in simplicity and the profound in the mundane. His career is a testament to the power of photography as a medium for empathy and connection, capturing not just images but stories that endure.