Day 5/365: Capturing the Photographer at Pier 2
Family portrait with a Rolleiflex TLR
Layers of Storytelling
One of my favorite moments from Pier 2: capturing a photographer capturing a family portrait. This is what I love about street photography—the ability to document not just a scene, but the human process of creating art.
This gentleman is shooting with a beautiful Rolleiflex TLR camera, a classic medium format camera that demands intention and presence from the photographer. There's something magical about watching someone work with such a deliberate, thoughtful approach to their craft.
The Magic of Medium Format
The Rolleiflex is a beautiful example of analog photography culture that's still thriving in Taiwan. These cameras require you to slow down, to compose carefully, and to trust your instincts. There's no chimping, no instant feedback—just you, the scene, and your understanding of light and composition.
What I love about this shot is the layers of storytelling embedded within it:
- The photographer's focus and concentration
- The family's joy and anticipation
- The moment of connection between photographer and subject
- The presence of the camera itself—a tool that connects people
It's a reminder that photography isn't just about the final image. It's about the human connection, the process of slowing down to truly see, and the shared moment between photographer and subject.
Why This Matters
In a world of smartphone photography and instant digital feedback, there's something beautiful about watching someone work with intention and presence. The Rolleiflex photographer represents a philosophy of photography that values the process as much as the result.
Pier 2 Art Center is the perfect backdrop for this story—a space dedicated to creativity, art, and human connection. Seeing multiple photographers at work in this space, each with their own approach and equipment, reminds us that photography is fundamentally about seeing and sharing what we see.
Technical Details
📍 Location: Pier 2 Art Center, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
📷 Camera: Leica D-Lux8
🎥 Subject's Camera: Rolleiflex TLR (Medium Format)
⚙️ Processing: Black & White conversion in post-production
About This 365 Project
This image is part of my year-long journey documenting Taiwan through daily photography. Each day brings one photo, one video, and one story about the places, people, and perspectives that make this island unique. Follow along as I explore the intersection of photography, culture, and human connection.
Learn Street Photography in Taiwan
Interested in developing your street photography skills and learning to capture authentic human moments? I offer hands-on photography workshops in Kaohsiung, Taipei, and Tainan. Learn composition techniques, how to work with people respectfully, how to see layers of storytelling, and develop your unique photographic vision.
Explore workshops: photosoftaiwan.com
Watch the Behind-the-Scenes
Want to see this moment unfold? Watch the full behind-the-scenes video on YouTube:
Support This Project
If you're enjoying this daily photography journey through Taiwan, consider supporting the project on Patreon for behind-the-scenes content, extended cuts, and exclusive insights into my creative process and the techniques behind each photograph.
Join on Patreon: patreon.com/PhotosofTaiwan
Tags: 365 project, Taiwan photography, Kaohsiung photography, street photography, Rolleiflex, TLR camera, analog photography, medium format, Pier 2, family portrait, photography workshop, 台灣, 高雄, 駁二