Man at the Tate Modern // London Street Photography

I shot this photo at the Tate Modern gallery in London, a place I spent a lot of time visiting. Just me and my camera.

I was on the top platform, looking down I saw this light in the main hall and an opportunity to create a great shot.

Using the exposure compensation dial I went very underexposed so that shaded areas would be almost black whilst the light would be properly exposed but bouncing off the floor (acting as background) it would help create the silhouette of the subject.

I just needed that subject. I waited…

I took many shots until a man and his daughter (I assume) walked in the frame. The man was holding the child’s scooted and the child ran away.

I saw this man standing there alone holding the scooter and loved what I saw. I took the shot.

Note there has been no editing to this image, it is straight out of camera.

It is one of my most popular shots and one I love the most. Rarely do I praise my own work, I’m just not that kind of person. I usually pick faults in all I do.

I hope you like it.

Did you know I’m a trained chef? I see this photo or any photo as not too dissimilar to a dish in a plate.

All the ingredients come together and the chef produces a beautiful composition on a plate, like a photographer composes a frame with all the elements they are given.

I wrote an article discussing the similarities between cookery and photography, you can read it here:

Have a great Sunday everyone and smashing week ahead.

Until next time, stay safe.

Nico