13.24 - Street Photography in Paris
Today everyone with a smart phone is a photographer, or thinks that they are. But there are those with 'an eye' and then there are the others like me, but don't fall foul of the laws in Paris...
Today at a Glance:
Street Photography in Paris
Recently published articles: MyFrenchLife™ Magazine
Here’s what’s happening around France this week
Merci et à bientôt…
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Street Photography in Paris
Years ago I created and printed ‘thank you’ note cards for my personal use, which were adorned with copies of my photos taken of people in Paris, little gems: elderly gents wearing bright colours, couples enjoying each other’s company in public, individuals pondering…and all with the Parisian background… you get the gist.
I really appreciate street photography but over time I became aware that taking photos in the street in Paris was not so straightforward. The French Privacy Legislation is a complex beast and open to interpretation by the judiciary. I don’t want you to fall foul of this legislation, so read on.
Then a little more recently I interviewed Kevin M Doolan, a street photographer who lives between Chicago and Paris. He describes himself as an urban storyteller, and his photos are gritty realism, I thought that you’d like to see them here and on his Instagram.
So, how do you ethically and legally take photos of people in Paris?
Ethical Considerations of Street Photography
Street photography is a captivating art form that freezes candid moments of daily life, offering glimpses into 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,” says Keith Chen.
Don’t fall foul of French Legislation: Photography in France - Privacy & Anonymity
Did you know that ‘Privacy’ is an important and regularly enforced law in France that impacts street photography? If you’re out there clicking away, then perhaps it would be wise to do some background reading before falling foul of the French Privacy Legislation.
“Paris street photography was first made famous by Henri Cartier-Bresson and many other passionate French photographers, but in recent years it seems you see fewer and fewer iconic street photos being captured. Many believe the decline began when Article 9 of France’s civic code declared everyone has the right to private life,” says Krystal Kenney.
“But this is a tricky law because it’s open to interpretation by the judicial system, and they still haven’t defined exactly what “privacy” is. But for the average street photographer enthusiast, Paris is a dreamland to capture everyday candid life with the most picturesque backgrounds in the world.”
To help you understand the problems, risks, and possible solutions, I refer you to two articles, both of which delve into everything you need to know to capture the world around you with integrity, and authenticity, and avoid the traps in Paris: detailed and very helpful!
The first article “The Ultimate Guide to Paris Street Photography” is by Krystal Kenny: an award-winning photographer residing in Paris, France. She has been photographing for over 10 years and enjoys teaching others about the craft. She spends most days shooting events, portraits, and weddings around Paris and working on writing new books. This article includes great tips and locations for shoots.
The second article “The Ethics of Street Photography” is by Keith Chen: Photographer, Product Manager @ Google, Professor, Runner, Hiker, and World Traveler. Took photos from 50+ cities (and counting).
Recently published articles: MyFrenchLife™ Magazine
New MyFrenchLife Magazine Contributor Debbie Brezinsky from Chicago continues (or perhaps she even leads) the discussion about the value of planning before your trip to France. Debbie shares how she approaches her planning and even shares her itinerary for her recent 16-day trip to Paris. Discover it here.
Welcome Debbie, and thank you for continuing the conversation about itinerary versus no itinerary - yours is such a valid arguement, but I’m not converted yet, I’m still the typical flâneur. - Judy MacMahon
The Paris List: I love the planning almost as much as my trips to Paris!
Here’s what’s happening in France – a collection from around the media world
“Less than 60 km separates Bordeaux from Arcachon and its beautiful villas, clear blue beaches, and delicious seafood. This is also one of the centers of French osticulture (oyster farming) so eating oysters is a “must” when coming to the area. But don’t worry, you’ll fall in love with Arcachon even if you hate oysters.“… includes lists of best hotels, camping sites, etc. Discover more.
2. Josette Torrent, a child Resistance fighter, has reclaimed her voice
For 50 years, she kept silent. But the 90-something who joined the Resistance when she was just 12 is publishing her story in memory of her father and to raise awareness among young people. Discover more.
May I have the envelope, please? The results are in and the winner is …France— number one in Europe for having the highest number of “centenarians” (people who are over 100 years old).
According to FR3 television, 30,000 people in France are 100 or older — and the number is rising, more quickly than expected. There are thirty times more centenarians than in 1970. Discover more.
MyFrenchLife Magazine NEWS:
I’ve started the background work on a new series of interviews with acclaimed authors on Substack, think New York Times Bestselling authors who have a connection with France.
These ‘conversations’ will be exclusive content for Paid subscribers to ‘le Bulletin’.
Please consider upgrading to become a Paid subscriber.
Here’s what member Bethany Keats says about ‘le Bulletin’:
‘le Bulletin’ is a great weekly wrap for people who want to stay on top of culture and events in France but don't have the time to look for articles themselves. It also regularly posits thought-provoking concepts and ideas for reflection on the week that was, and the week ahead."
Merci mille fois…
“Merci mille fois... for being such a loyal, occasional, or new, reader of ‘le Bulletin’ & my weekly Missives featured in each newsletter, where I follow my curiosity wherever it takes me…” Judy MacMahon
The fact that we all have so much in common as Francophiles is one of the things I enjoy about this community and I refer to this as the 'French Thread' which connects us:
I see it as an endless thread of red silk connecting Francophiles globally.
- see the MyFrenchLife ‘M’ logo
- the 'M' is made of silk thread.
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I hope that you are well!
À Bientôt
Judy x
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Merci mille fois !