📸 Photo series #35: What makes us push the shutter button?

Street photographer: Piero Desopo

Hey!

At StoryDrops we have always been committed in promoting street photography projects reflecting the time, effort and artistic vision of photographers. Our goal is to shift the focus from the social media popularity contest to recognizing the genuine artistic value of photography.

We get a real kick when talented street photographers, who may not be social media giants, want to contribute to the StoryDrops newsletter. It's a reminder of our core mission – to celebrate street photography for its authentic value.

So, without further ado, dive into the incredible photo series by Piero Desopo, exploring the meaningful connections between people and their surroundings. Let's keep it real and appreciate the true spirit of street photography!

Make yourself comfortable with a good coffee and enjoy the photos! ☕️

LA street photography by Piero Desopo

⏱️ Reading time: 6 min

This photographic series stemmed from a deep dive into the concept of juxtaposition, seeking out scenes where people and their environments reveal unexpected connections. One example is the image of a young woman walking past a Target logo. By capturing the precise moment her head rests perfectly centered within the circle, it looked to me like a question of who the true target might be – the consumer or the logo itself. Similarly, the photograph of a man sporting a striped scarf is rich with hidden parallels. Not only does he wear stripes, but the surrounding environment echoes his pattern with striped bags, shoes, and even the chair.

While most images in the series reflect research, two stand as spontaneous reactions to powerful moments. The first captures a lone child bathed in dramatic light, evoking a sense of isolation and vulnerability. The second focuses on a man tugging a dog, his enigmatic expression sparking questions about their dynamic. Is it joy, frustration, or a playful disagreement? In a third image, a young woman standing between two men at Shibuya Station acts as a visual divider, yet their mirrored postures suggest an underlying connection despite their anonymity. This subtle interplay further highlights the series' central theme: discovering the hidden connections between people and their environment.

Some might say street photography can't tell stories. But I find magic in the single frame, in the unexpected encounters and unspoken emotions. My hope? To spark a flicker of curiosity, a moment's pause in the viewer's mind. That's already enough.

Written and shot by Piero Desopo.

Who’s behind the lens?

Describe yourself as a photographer and where you are based

I live and work in Los Angeles, CA—USA. Photography has brought back to me an interest in the nature of things. It encompasses both the photographic medium and the subjects that captivate me, ultimately leading to an interest in our changing world.

Your favorite camera and lens

Nikon Zf, Voigtlander 28mm f/2.8 Color-Skopar Type II Aspherical Leica M.

Your 3 favorite places to shoot

Europe, anywhere / Tokyo, Japan / New York, USA.

According to you, what makes a good picture

Beyond technical prowess, I seek photographs that ignite my imagination, where composition, light, and subject matter unite to create a captivating shot, leaving me wanting more than just a glimpse.

Your favorite photographers and where you get inspired.

Josef Koudelka, Garry Winogrand, Henri Cartier-Bresson.

Portfolio and/or social media links

Instagram : @streetravioli

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🚨 Disclaimer: All saved photos remain the property of the photographer, all reproduction or commercial use without authorization of the artist is a violation to his/her rights. Credits will always be given to the photographer.