Street Photography Inspiration: Sanket Patel

As I sit here, drinking my first cup of coffee, I’m reminded why I love helping beginners learn how to shoot.

Last week, I received a wonderful email from Sanket Patel, thanking me for my tips and guidance. Along with his kind words, he also shared a photo gallery that really blew me away. Check out the video to see my favorites.

He’s using an entry level DSLR and a basic 50mm f/1.8 prime lens to take some really impactful and moving images. He’s proven that with the right settings and a creative eye, you can capture beautiful photos with any camera or lens.

Sanket was also kind enough to answer some questions about his passion for photography…

1) What got you interested in photography?
London. I lived there in 2011 and fell in love with the place.

2) What gear (camera/lens) did you start with and what do you shoot with now?
I started with a Nexus One and an iPhone 4 with an Olloclip lens. I now use a Nikon D5100 with a 50mm f/1.8 prime lens and an iPhone 6s. Occasionally, I borrow my sister’s Fujifilm X100S.

3) What resources (videos, books, websites, cheat cards, etc) helped you learn how to shoot?
Moose’s cheat cards. It gave me a sense of direction and there has been lot of learning since. Some of my favorite books are “Eve Arnold: Magnum Legacy” and “Henri Cartier-Bresson: Europeans.” My favorite website for inspiration is Instagram.

4) What apps or software do you use to edit your images?
I use Snapseed, VSCO and Mextures.

5) Do you have any advice or tips for beginners who are just getting started?
Moose’s tips are a good way to begin with, he’s laid it down perfectly. It doesn’t stop there, be open to learning. Step out and shoot, often. Read a book (or two) by some photographers you fancy, it helps. Enjoy what you do!

For more inspiriation, check out Sanket’s photo galleries on VSCO and on Instagram.

Happy shooting! :)