Shanghai Streets In Black & White

These days I am really trying hard to push myself to shoot for color but I keep going back to black and white. For me it has so much more depth but this is just my opinion based on my skill set. I think I would consider my color work less strong compared to my black and white work so I have to keep reminding myself to get out of my comfort zone otherwise 2 years from now I will still just be admiring the brilliant work of photographers such as Steve McCurry, JoeyL and Sue Bryce instead of raising my own skill level.

So shoot, shoot and shoot some more, and when you get tired and despondent, pick up your camera and carry on shooting.


The Motion Of Rain

For me one of the best times to shoot street is when it is raining, granted there needs to be no wind otherwise it becomes a bit tricky trying to hold onto your umbrella with one hand while you do your best to focus, compose and shoot with the other hand.

But once you master I find the photos to be more interesting with regards to subject and lighting. Also it seems that people tend to care far less about you taking their photo when it is pouring down with rain as they are so preoccupied with trying to stay dry.


The Cotton Club

If you are looking for a cool place to hang out with great music in Shanghai then get down to The Cotton Club. Dark, cramped and smokey, this place is a well known jazz bar in Shanghai. The house band is amazing and pumps out such an awesome vibe you can't help focusing all your attention on them so don't be surprised if the conversation at your table literally comes to an abrupt halt when they start.

Below are a few photos I shot on the first night I heard the band.

Find more info for the band and bar here http://www.thecottonclub.cn