These Cool Photographs Capture the North East in a New Light
Street photographer Chris Binns shares some of his favourite atmospheric shots taken across the region
Through his street photography, Chris tells stories and connects with strangers. ‘I love the poetry between light and dark and the shadows it casts, creating emotion and intrigue in a picture,’ he says. ‘Each picture has the ability to produce a different visceral reaction from the observer, I often see them as self-portraits. My most iconic picture was taken in Darlington train station of the lady walking along the platform. The light and architecture of the station catapult you to the figure walking away from you, and give rise to questions about her and her plight. This picture was candid, it feels timeless, but at the same time it was fleeting.’
Chris has been photographing in New York recently and is heading to Berlin, but he says there are great opportunities in the North East with our historic architecture, the character of the people and our unpredictable weather. ‘I capture something new every time I venture out,’ he adds.
'I love the poetry between light and dark and the shadows it casts, creating emotion and intrigue in a picture'
Last year, in collaboration with the NHS and local councils, he was commissioned to provide images that celebrated nursing in the Tees Valley. ‘I met with a group of nurses to talk to them about what stories they wanted the images to tell,’ he says. ‘Employing my street-style of photography, a total of 30 images taken in local hospitals formed part of an exhibition held in Redcar. I was delighted that the nurses who directed me were at the launch and were happy that the images projected their values.’
Chris’ tip for beginner photographers is just to get out there and take lots of pictures, but do so with intention. ‘Think about the scene in front of you and what you want to capture,’ he suggests. ‘Look at the light and the shadows, watch the movement, look at the buildings, and reflections in the windows and puddles from the rain. Ditch the zoom function on your phone or camera lens. Use a fixed focal length and move, get closer or step back, find a different angle, crouch or stand on a wall, and learn each time you do it. Use social media to scrapbook your ideas and pictures but avoid using it for likes and validation – don’t let it shape your work, keep to your uniqueness and vision. Be sensitive to people and thoughtful, always look to preserve dignity; be good and photography will be good to you.’
