Street photography is one of those genres that sparks heated debate between photographers and enthusiasts. Topics range, including what street photography ‘should be’, for example must contain people taken in a public place, or can only be photographed in black and white, right down to restrictions in composition. I’m always surprised at the amount of argument that goes on yet don’t see any evidence from the ‘haters’ on their own work.

Having said that I’m delighted when a photographer I respect with an exceptional body of work will comment favourably on my work. Street photography is not for everyone, and even the modern artists confuse me with their styles of layering. For me, Elliot Erwitt is the grand master of street with his injection of humour captured of the unsuspecting.

His inspiration finds me looking for such opportunities and they are far and few in between, particularly living in a relatively quiet city.

Recently I participated in a workshop in Melbourne with Eric Kim. Eric is a dynamic young man who has made a living out of his love for photography. Not by selling his work, but by educating enthusiasts like me. Most impressively he’s done this almost solely through the world of social media. On our one on one session on Elizabeth Street, I noted the opportunity in front of me and started to click away. I could hear Eric behind me saying ‘work it, work it’. I must say it was off putting considering the view I had, however I did get the shot but continued to ‘work it’ for Eric’s sake.