The Essential Street Photographer’s Kit

If you’ve ever dipped your toes into the vibrant, fast-paced world of street photography, you know it’s not just about the gear—it’s about capturing spontaneous moments and telling compelling stories. But having the right equipment can undoubtedly make your journey smoother and more rewarding. Today, let’s unpack the essential gear that truly elevates your street photography game.

Cameras: Less is More

In street photography, discretion, speed, and ease of use matter more than megapixels. Here are my go-to choices:

• Leica M10 & Leica Q2: Timeless classics for a reason. Compact, discreet, and astonishingly sharp, Leica cameras excel at street work. Their intuitive manual controls let you shoot rapidly and precisely.
• Fujifilm X100V: An affordable and beloved alternative among street photographers. Compact, stylish, and featuring a fixed 23mm lens (35mm equivalent), it encourages creative discipline.
• Sony A7C: Compact full-frame mirrorless that’s perfect if versatility matters, giving great results in diverse conditions.

Remember, the best street camera is the one you’ll carry every day. Choose comfort and familiarity above all else.

Lenses: Keep It Simple

Most legendary street photographers use a single focal length. Limiting yourself forces creativity and enhances spontaneity:

• 35mm Lens: The classic focal length, ideal for natural perspectives and storytelling without distortion.
• 50mm Lens: Perfect for tighter compositions and portraits, giving you intimacy while keeping respectful distance.
• 28mm Lens: Great for getting closer and immersing your viewer right into the scene, as with the Leica Q2.

In my workshops, especially those in Venice and Budapest, I frequently guide participants in mastering these focal lengths, discovering how each changes their relationship to the scene.

Accessories: Essentials Only

Street photography should be fluid and intuitive. Avoid unnecessary baggage by sticking to a few essentials:

• Extra Batteries: Nothing ends a shoot quicker than running out of power at a crucial moment.
• Fast Memory Cards: Choose reliable brands with fast write speeds to keep up with rapid shooting.
• Comfortable Camera Strap: Essential for a day on your feet. Invest in a discreet, comfortable strap like Peak Design’s Slide Lite or Artisan & Artist silk straps.
• Small Notebook: Jot down locations, inspiration, or contacts—nothing beats the analogue charm.

Optional but Recommended:

• Weather-Resistant Bag: A minimalistic shoulder bag or sling keeps your gear secure and dry.
• Neutral Density Filter: Useful for controlling exposure creatively, especially when shooting wide open in bright conditions.

Street-Smart Guidance at Your Fingertips

Gear is a starting point, but experience brings real skill. In my Street Photography and Storytelling workshops, gear discussions are always tailored to your personal style, interests, and comfort. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or new to street photography, understanding the relationship between gear choice and creative outcomes is part of our journey together.

Explore my upcoming workshops in Venice, Budapest, and beyond, where I’ll help you unlock your creative potential and ensure you’re geared up for success.

Discover Street Photography Workshops →

Capture the street. Tell stories that matter.