What Is The Best Street Photography Documentary?
Street photography has long been a genre that captures the essence of everyday life and the spirit of the streets.
Through the lens of a camera, photographers have the power to immortalize the fleeting moments of life, encapsulating the beauty and chaos of the world around us.
In recent years, a number of documentaries have been produced that explore the art and craft of street photography, shining a light on the photographers who have dedicated their lives to capturing the essence of the street.
In this list, we’ll take a look at ten of the best street photography documentaries that offer insights into the work and philosophy of some of the most talented photographers in the field.
List Of Top 10 Best Street Photography Documentaries
- Everybody Street (2013)
- Finding Vivian Maier (2013)
- In No Great Hurry: 13 Lessons in Life with Saul Leiter (2013)
- Bill Cunningham New York (2010)
- Streetwise (1984)
- The salt of the earth (2014)
- Everybody’s Street (2014)
- Inside Out: The People’s Art Project (2013)
- Don’t Blink – Robert Frank (2015)
- Street Photography: Documenting the Human Experience (2015)
1. Everybody Street (2013)
“Everybody Street” is a 2013 documentary directed by Cheryl Dunn that features interviews with and work by some of the most iconic street photographers of our time.
The film offers an intimate look at the lives and work of photographers such as Bruce Davidson, Joel Meyerowitz, and Mary Ellen Mark, among others.
Through their personal stories and insights, viewers are given a glimpse into the art and craft of street photography and the unique challenges that come with capturing life on the streets.
2. Finding Vivian Maier (2013)
“Finding Vivian Maier” is a 2013 documentary that tells the story of the late Vivian Maier, a nanny who secretly took over 100,000 photographs during her lifetime, many of which were never seen until after her death.
The film follows John Maloof, a historian who discovered Maier’s work in a storage locker in Chicago and went on to uncover the fascinating story behind her life and work.
Through interviews with those who knew Maier, as well as her own photographs and home movies, “Finding Vivian Maier” offers a captivating portrait of a talented photographer and the mystery that surrounded her life.
3. In No Great Hurry: 13 Lessons in Life with Saul Leiter (2013)
“In No Great Hurry” (2013) is a documentary that explores the work and philosophy of Saul Leiter, a pioneer of color photography.
The film features Leiter’s own words and images, as well as interviews with friends and colleagues who knew him well.
Through his unique style and approach to photography, Leiter captured the essence of New York City in the 1940s and ’50s, paving the way for generations of photographers to come.
“In No Great Hurry” offers a glimpse into the life and work of a true master of photography.
4. Bill Cunningham New York (2010)
“Bill Cunningham New York” is a 2010 documentary that offers a portrait of the late Bill Cunningham, a beloved New York Times photographer and fashion icon.
The film follows Cunningham as he rides his bicycle through the streets of New York, snapping photos of fashion trends and street style.
Through interviews with Cunningham’s friends and colleagues, as well as his own personal archives, “Bill Cunningham New York” offers a touching tribute to a man who dedicated his life to the art of photography and the beauty of fashion.
5. Streetwise (1984)
“Streetwise” is a 1984 documentary that follows the lives of homeless teenagers in Seattle.
Directed by Martin Bell and featuring powerful photography by Mary Ellen Mark, the film offers an unflinching look at the harsh realities of life on the streets.
Through interviews with the young people and their families, as well as scenes of daily life on the streets, “Streetwise” provides a poignant portrait of a forgotten segment of society.
6. The salt of the earth (2014)
“The Salt of the Earth” is a 2014 documentary film co-directed by Wim Wenders and Juliano Ribeiro Salgado, which tells the story of Brazilian photographer Sebastião Salgado.
The film chronicles Salgado’s remarkable career, from his early days as an economist to his transition to photography and his subsequent travels around the world to document social and environmental issues.
Through interviews with Salgado and his family, as well as stunning visuals of his photography, “The Salt of the Earth” offers a moving tribute to one of the world’s most accomplished and influential photographers.
The film also highlights Salgado’s efforts to use his work to raise awareness of important issues and to effect positive change in the world.
7. Everybody’s Street (2014)
“Everybody’s Street” is a 2014 documentary that features interviews with some of the most renowned street photographers of our time.
Directed by Cheryl Dunn, the film offers a captivating exploration of the art of street photography and the diverse range of styles and approaches that photographers bring to their work.
Through stunning visuals and personal insights from the photographers themselves, “Everybody’s Street” celebrates the beauty and power of capturing life on the streets.
8. Inside Out: The People’s Art Project (2013)
“Inside Out: The People’s Art Project” is a 2013 documentary that tells the story of French artist JR and his global art project, which invites people from around the world to share their stories through large-scale photographic installations in public spaces.
Through his innovative approach to street art, JR creates a platform for individuals to voice their opinions and experiences, and to connect with others in their communities.
“Inside Out” offers a fascinating look at the power of art to unite and inspire people across cultures and borders.
9. Don’t Blink – Robert Frank (2015)
“Don’t Blink – Robert Frank” is a 2015 documentary that offers a rare glimpse into the life and work of Swiss-American photographer and filmmaker, Robert Frank.
Directed by Laura Israel, the film provides an intimate look at Frank’s artistic process, including his groundbreaking book “The Americans” and his experimental films.
Through archival footage and interviews with Frank and his colleagues and collaborators, “Don’t Blink” offers a fascinating portrait of one of the most influential photographers of the 20th century.
10. Street Photography: Documenting the Human Experience (2015)
“Street Photography: Documenting the Human Experience” is a 2015 documentary that explores the history and practice of street photography.
The film features interviews with several renowned street photographers, including Bruce Gilden and Mary Ellen Mark, who discuss their approach to capturing the human experience on the streets.
Through their personal stories and insights, as well as stunning visuals of their work, “Street Photography” offers a compelling look at the art and craft of documenting life on the streets.
Conclusion
Street photography documentaries offer a unique glimpse into the lives and work of some of the most innovative and influential photographers of our time.
From exploring the gritty realities of life on the streets to showcasing the beauty and diversity of our global community, these films offer a fascinating look at the art and craft of street photography.
Whether you are an aspiring photographer or simply a lover of the medium, these documentaries are sure to inspire and enlighten, offering a window into the minds and methods of the world’s most talented street photographers.