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Printique’s Day Out with Portrait Photographer Charles Chessler

Author: Nikita Singh

On a warm summer morning, Printique’s creative team embarked on an inspiring adventure through the streets of New York City with the talented portrait photographer Charles Chessler. The mission? To capture the essence of New York’s diverse and dynamic population by photographing Agreeable Strangers. What ensued were breathtaking portraits that revealed the true spirit of the city, beautifully printed using silver-halide technology on archival paper.

Charles Chessler, renowned for his ability to connect with people and bring out their unique personalities through his lens, generously shared his expertise with the Printique team.

Charles Chessler’s Top Five Tips for Photographing Strangers in the Street:

1. Know Your Why

Charles Chessler believes that why you want to photograph strangers is crucial. Are you looking to tell a story, capture a specific emotion, or simply document the beauty of everyday life? Knowing your purpose will help you approach potential subjects with confidence and clarity.

2. Hang Out in Really Good Light

Lighting is key to capturing stunning portraits. Charles Chessler advises finding locations with excellent natural light, such as golden hour in the early morning or late afternoon. Good lighting enhances the subject’s features and adds depth to the photograph, creating a more visually appealing image.

3. Be Ready

Preparation is everything. Ensure your camera settings are dialed in and ready to go before approaching someone. This way, when a person agrees to be photographed, you’re fully prepared to capture the moment without any delays. Quick adjustments can make the difference between a good shot and a great one.

4. Have a Business Card and Share

Building trust with your subjects is important. Carry business cards and be willing to send them a high-quality file of their portrait. This not only shows professionalism but also allows your subjects to have a tangible memory of the experience. Sharing their portrait can also lead to more opportunities and connections in the future.

5. Move On Gracefully

Rejection is part of the process. If someone declines to be photographed, don’t take it personally. With 8 million people in New York City, there are plenty of opportunities to find willing subjects. Let it go gracefully and approach the next person with a positive attitude.

As Printique’s team roamed the vibrant streets of NYC with Charles Chessler, they discovered that capturing the authentic essence of the city lies in its people. Each portrait told a unique story, reflecting the rich tapestry of lives that make New York so extraordinary.

Charles Chessler x Printique: Agreeable Strangers in Print

To celebrate and share the beauty of these portraits, Printique printed each one on various mediums, including fine art paper, canvas, and metal. These prints were then sent to Charles Chessler, the agreeable strangers, and proudly displayed at Printique’s 19th Street Gallery. This exhibition not only honors the subjects but also showcases the artistry and quality of Printique’s printing services.

Charles Chessler x Printique collaboration did not only resulted in stunning images but also offered valuable insights into the art of street portraiture. By following his tips, aspiring photographers can improve their skills and confidently approach strangers, creating meaningful and memorable photographs. Enjoy these portraits from the shoot!