Street Photography: Top 10 Best Books

Street Photography

Explore the Best Street Photography Books

Street photography is an art that captures the essence of everyday life, turning mundane moments into compelling visual stories. For those passionate about this genre, finding the right resources can significantly enhance your skills and inspiration. This list of the top 10 street photography books is curated to guide you through the best available, each offering unique insights and stunning imagery. Let’s dive into these must-have books for every street photography enthusiast.

Author: Jordan Matthews


10. The Unseen Saul Leiter by Margit Erb

4.6 out of 5 stars 177

The Unseen Saul Leiter by Margit Erb

Purchase here: The Unseen Saul Leiter

Saul Leiter’s work is renowned for its painterly qualities and innovative use of color. This book dives into his lesser-known works, revealing the depth of his street photography. It’s a perfect addition for those who appreciate the subtlety and beauty in everyday scenes.


9. New York Street Diaries by Phil Penman

4.5 out of 5 stars 81

New York Street Diaries by Phil Penman

Purchase here: New York Street Diaries

Phil Penman’s book offers an intimate look at the streets of New York. His ability to capture the city’s energy and its inhabitants’ diversity makes this book a captivating read for any street photography lover.


8. Alex Webb: Dislocations by Alex Webb

4.7 out of 5 stars 46

Alex Webb: Dislocations by Alex Webb

Purchase here: Alex Webb: Dislocations

Alex Webb is known for his complex and vibrant compositions. “Dislocations” showcases his unique approach to capturing the world, making it an essential book for photographers looking to understand the use of color and form in street photography.


7. Bill Cunningham: On the Street: Five Decades of Iconic Photography by New York Times

4.8 out of 5 stars 722

Bill Cunningham: On the Street: Five Decades of Iconic Photography by New York Times

Purchase here: Bill Cunningham: On the Street

Bill Cunningham’s iconic work for the New York Times is celebrated in this comprehensive collection. His candid street style photos offer a historical glimpse into the fashion and culture of New York City over five decades.


6. Humans of New York by Brandon Stanton

4.8 out of 5 stars 5,630

Humans of New York by Brandon Stanton

Purchase here: Humans of New York

Brandon Stanton’s “Humans of New York” transcends traditional street photography by pairing powerful portraits with poignant stories. This book is a testament to the power of personal narratives in understanding the human condition.


5. Watching New York: Street Style A to Z by Johnny Cirillo

5.0 out of 5 stars 30

Watching New York: Street Style A to Z by Johnny Cirillo

Purchase here: Watching New York

Johnny Cirillo captures the eclectic fashion and personalities of New York City. With its vibrant photographs and engaging style, this book is perfect for those who love to see the unique and diverse styles found on the streets.


4. The Dogist: Photographic Encounters with 1,000 Dogs by Elias Weiss Friedman

4.8 out of 5 stars 884

The Dogist: Photographic Encounters with 1,000 Dogs by Elias Weiss Friedman

Purchase here: The Dogist

While not traditional street photography, “The Dogist” brings a charming twist by focusing on our four-legged friends. Elias Weiss Friedman’s delightful portraits capture the personalities of dogs he meets on the streets, making it a heartwarming addition to your collection.


3. Blood In Blood Out by Taylor Hackford

4.9 out of 5 stars 19,865

Blood In Blood Out by Taylor Hackford

Purchase here: Blood In Blood Out

Taylor Hackford’s exploration of gang culture through the lens of street photography is both gritty and powerful. This book offers a raw and unfiltered look at life in the streets, providing a stark contrast to more traditional subjects.


2. Vivian Maier: Street Photographer by Vivian Maier

4.7 out of 5 stars 1,721

Vivian Maier: Street Photographer by Vivian Maier

Purchase here: Vivian Maier: Street Photographer

Vivian Maier’s posthumously discovered work has captivated the world. This collection showcases her extraordinary talent in capturing the streets of Chicago and New York, blending a keen eye for detail with an ability to freeze moments in time.


1. Humans by Brandon Stanton

4.9 out of 5 stars 19,865

Humans by Brandon Stanton

Purchase here: Humans

“Humans” is Brandon Stanton’s latest installment, continuing his journey of capturing people’s stories from around the world. This book is a profound reflection of humanity, combining stunning photography with heartfelt narratives that resonate deeply.


For anyone passionate about street photography, these books offer invaluable insights and inspiration. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a budding photographer, each book on this list provides unique perspectives that will enhance your understanding and appreciation of the art form.

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