The Ethics of Street Photography

Capturing Life’s Moments Around the World with Respect and Revealing Authenticity

Keith Chen
4 min readJun 12, 2023
Photo by author. Shot in Hong Kong.

Street photography is a captivating art form that freezes candid moments of daily life, offering glimpses into the diverse tapestry of society. However, it is crucial to navigate the ethical considerations inherent in this genre, particularly when it comes to privacy and respect for individuals.

Striking a delicate balance between artistic expression and ethical responsibility is paramount. In this article, I will explore the ethics of street photography and delve into the principles that guide photographers in capturing the world around them with integrity.

Respecting Privacy and Preserving Anonymity:

Photo by author. Shot in Spain.

Respecting the privacy of individuals in public spaces is a fundamental ethical concern in street photography. While legal regulations may differ across jurisdictions, it is essential to be mindful of personal boundaries. As photographers, we must approach our subjects with sensitivity, ensuring that our presence and actions do not infringe upon their privacy or make them feel uncomfortable.

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Keith Chen
Keith Chen

Written by Keith Chen

Product manager @ Google.com, ex-Amazon; Adjunct professor @ MICA.edu and Chatham.edu; MBA from CMU.edu; Professional photographer. Language : 中文 / EN