The Next Great American Street Photographer
A look at the field's most groundbreaking work.
The Next Great American Street Photographer
From Alex Webb to Vivian Maier, street photographers have captured some of the most iconic images of our time. They are chroniclers of our culture. While other photographers are directing talent, street photographers are opportunists seeking to capture truth. At least that’s what rising star Fredrick Grossman says, a young street photographer out of Miami who hopes to be the next big name in the field.
This interview has been lightly edited for clarity.
How did you get interested in street photography?
I think people are at their most honest when they’re not trying. Everyone knows what it looks like to smile. But what does it look like to simply exist? I think all great street photography tries to answer that question.
So you think your photography depicts existence?
I like to think my photographs are depictions of the soul.
Critics have claimed they are depictions of vaginas.
Critics have never understood art. They said the same thing about Gary Winogrand when he published “Women are Beautiful.” My work is for the people.
Could you talk a bit about your gear?
Sure, thanks. Obviously different tools are designed to complete different jobs. But to me photography has always been about the shot, not the tech. Mostly, I just strap an iPhone to a selfie stick and hit the streets.
How do you decide what to capture?
You know when you know. You sort of develop a sixth sense as an artist. I like to ask myself if what I’m witnessing is true of the whole human condition.
But generally?
But generally I just look to see if she is wearing a skirt.
I understand you’ve been arrested for your art.
Yes, I’ve been arrested on multiple occasions. It’s not uncommon for people to misunderstand the work of a street photographer for something more sinister. Getting beat up or arrested is just part of the job.
Who beats you up?
Women, boyfriends, police, children, babies.
Babies?
Yeah, babies, infants, embryos. I had an embryo kick my ass once.
How does that…?
The unborn just don’t understand art. They’ve all been hypnotized by the culture.
