Cazerella Tavs’s Authentic Vision: A Fearless Dive into Raw, Expressive, and Spontaneous Street Photography

In your opinion, what is the biggest misconception people have about street photography?

I guess everyone has their own personal take on how they view street photography, in the world of creative arts there will always be misconceptions.   Street photography is a genre that captures the essence of human life and urban environments, capturing moments, telling a story, documenting gestures, interactions momentary habits.  It is often lauded for its raw and candid portrayal of everyday occurrences. However, despite its popularity, there is a slight misconception I guess that it is merely about taking random pictures of strangers on the streets. In reality it’s much more intentional, its about observing, timing, skill, and artistic approach.  It’s a form of art that perhaps can be misinterpreted at times.  I often get approached by people asking if I can take their photos, or how long have I being doing street photography, perhaps it is becoming less misconceived and I guess would differ depending on country/city/town.   As photographers we must navigate the delicate balance between artistic expression and respect for the individuals we photograph, which can vary significantly across different cultural contexts.

What are your favourite elements to capture in a street photograph? (light, colour, composition, human interaction, etc.)

Street Photography is so diverse and dynamic my favourite elements can differ on the day/scene and depends on my mindset and how I personally feel on the day.  I am drawn to the elements of  human emotions, the unposed moments, expressions, interactions, and emotions that all play a part on the street photography stage.  The elements of contrasts, reflections, motion, movements, solitary calmness, architecture, light, shade the list is endless, but for me personally it is the connection with myself, my camera and my surroundings on the day and the elements will flow or follow!  I don’t have a set street style as such and go with what feels right to me at the time.  I am a huge fan of art of all forms and street art and graffiti is certainly an element that brings me to another world, where you are capturing an ever changing environment with its own story told through art.

What is your take on social media influence on street photography?

Social media continues to evolve, offering new tools and possibilities for photographers, it has profoundly influenced street photography.

For me personally social media has been very positive, it has given me an incredible platform for exposure to a larger audience, to engage with likeminded photographers, along with the opportunity to share my craft/love of photography.  The introduction to PSP alone has given me so much support, confidence and networking with all levels of photographers, finding inspiration from diverse styles all around the world.  We exchange, observe, collab, mentor, constructively criticise and learn, which is all down to the platforms of Social Media.

I personally have lost my rhythm, confidence and belief in my abilities at times – you can fall in to the pits of comparing on SM and feeling a little fish in a big ocean.  However for me the networking and support through SM has helped me immensely grow in confidence, learn more and keep my true passion alive.  PSP has been super beneficial  to me on my photography journey not just as a platform but as valid support and advice along the way.  My view is to use social media as a tool without letting it dictate your creative process, or waste endless time scrolling when you could be out there doing/practicing what you love.  So I guess in essence there are big benefits to SM and some pitfalls.

I sincerely hope the interplay between social media and street photography will continue to redefine what it means to capture the spirit of the streets

Are your prints available for purchase? If so, where can art buyers and collectors contact you to purchase them?

I currently don’t have a published website, I have been very fortunate to have my prints purchased through people I have captured or through SM where an image of mine has resonated with them personally.  I am always open to any interested parties, but I don’t advertise or look for buyers.  I cover many genre’s in my chaotic Cazerella world from street, landscape, nature, architecture, corporate, portraits etc and whatever the audience, for me personally to have a print of mine in someone’s house/studio/office is an absolute privilege and honour and definitely something I will strive to deliver more in the future.

If anyone is interested in any of my prints I can be contacted via my Instagram account @insta_cazerella_pics.  Always grateful to those who show interest in my work and appreciate the art of photography.