Max Burgees: Weaving Striking Light, Precise Geometry, and Human Connection into Timeless Street Moments
An Exclusive Interview with Pure Street Photography
A deeply reflective conversation on his creative evolution, stepping beyond his comfort zone to capture compelling moments, and staying true to his artistic vision amidst fleeting trends.
Interview by Dimpy Bhalotia and Kamal Kumaar Rao
3/03/2025
(c) Max Burgess
(c) Max Burgess
We would love to know more about you! Who you are and where you're from? When did you start street photography?
I’m an Englishman living in Kraków, Poland. I’ve been here for a decade, and it remains an incredibly inspiring city. Photography has been a passion of mine for around 20 years. I initially focused on landscapes, drawn to the joy of exploration. Later, while studying architecture, photography became a tool for testing and presenting ideas. More recently, running a cycling brand meant photography played a central role in capturing both clothing and travel experiences. Now, as I manage a coworking community in Kraków, I shoot interiors and events. However, a couple of years ago, I became utterly captivated by street photography, and it has since become my primary focus.
What inspired you to become a street photographer?
Photography had become more of a routine than a passion—something tied to my work rather than a personal creative pursuit. But after upgrading my camera, I rediscovered my love for it. I started photographing everything, but street photography resonated with me on a deeper level. It changed how I saw the world—I became more observant and present. I also began to appreciate spontaneous interactions with strangers, which added a new dimension to my experience behind the camera
How would you describe your work in terms of style and/or approach?
My background in architecture has deeply influenced my visual preferences. I gravitate toward precise geometric compositions and always include human elements to provide context and scale. Over the past year, I’ve been shooting exclusively in black and white, as it strips away distractions and enhances the essence of each moment.
(c) Max Burgess
(c) Max Burgess
What is your photography routine like? Do you photograph every day?
I always carry my camera, and my commute often takes longer than necessary because I stop to shoot. I prefer working with good light, so if I notice ideal conditions while at my desk, I’ll take a walk around Kraków Old Town or Kazimierz to make the most of it.
What camera or mobile device do you use for photography? Do you shoot digitally, on film, or a mix of both?
Over the past two decades, I’ve owned many cameras, each offering a unique experience. I started with digital photography, which provided immediate feedback and helped me refine my skills. Later, I explored film for its distinct aesthetic and slower, more deliberate process. Recently, I’ve used the Sony A7 for work, but street photography led me to experiment with different cameras like Fuji and, most recently, Leica. Shooting with the Leica M11 has been a revelation; the rangefinder experience is immersive and incredibly rewarding.
What challenges do you face when photographing on the street?
I’m probably more introverted than people assume, and at first, I felt uneasy photographing in public spaces. But over time, I’ve come to appreciate how street photography pushes me out of my comfort zone, which has benefited other aspects of my life. That said, I still occasionally hesitate when a bolder approach might yield a stronger image.
Do you ever wonder what happens to the people in your photos?
I often interact with the people I photograph, and some have even connected with me through social media, becoming supportive of my work. If photographers can be categorised as ‘hunters’ or ‘fishermen,’ I see myself as the latter—I find a scene, wait, and observe until the right subject appears. Sometimes, though, the perfect subject doesn’t materialise, and I have to actively seek out someone to complete the image. These interactions often lead to fascinating conversations about my work and motivations.
(c) Max Burgess
(c) Max Burgess
In your opinion, what is the biggest misconception people have about street photography?
Many believe street photography is simply about capturing fleeting, candid moments. While that’s part of it, the reality is far more complex. It requires a balance of technical skill, creative vision, and social awareness. The interplay of these elements gives each photographer their unique style.
What are your favourite elements to capture in a street photograph? (light, colour, composition, human interaction, etc.)
I love strong light and shadow, compelling compositions, and human interactions that add depth to a scene. I’m particularly drawn to minimalist, graphic images—ones that convey the most emotion with the least visual information. A dark frame with a single beam of light illuminating a subject can be incredibly powerful. I’ve always admired the Dutch Masters, who often used deep shadows punctuated by a single light source to create striking compositions.
What is your take on social media influence on street photography?
I admit that I sometimes shoot in portrait mode purely because it looks better on Instagram, which has made me reflect on how social media impacts my creative process. To counter this, I’ve started using carousels to showcase multiple images rather than focusing on a single shot. I’ve also been exploring alternative platforms, as Instagram increasingly prioritises video content.
Unfortunately, mainstream exposure to street photography is often through viral reels often featuring ‘portrait photographers’ taking portraits of attractive people on the street. This limits the broader understanding of the genre and distances audiences from the work of legendary photographers like Cartier-Bresson or Leiter. On the positive side, social media has been an excellent tool for connecting with fellow photographers and sharing work globally.
Are your prints available for purchase? If so, where can art buyers and collectors contact you to purchase them?
I’m currently collaborating with local galleries to make some prints available. My work is showcased on my website (mxburg.com), though I’m not actively selling prints at the moment. That said, if someone is interested in purchasing one, arrangements can certainly be made.
(c) Max Burgess
(c) Max Burgess
What advice would you give to aspiring photographers?
Follow your passion and be consistent. It’s tempting to seek recognition, but the key is to enjoy the process itself. If you stay dedicated, the rewards will come in time. When I get passionate about something, I immerse myself completely—reading books, watching documentaries, and listening to podcasts. But in the end, the most important thing is to go out and shoot. There’s no substitute for practice, practice, practice.
A huge thank you to Max Burgess for sharing his incredible journey.
In Frame : Max Burgess