Matt Weber (Street photography), Color, Men of New York, Portraits, Subway

“Not Just Another Suit” 2010

Here’s a fellow who has definitely arrived and wants to make sure you know. He might be a tough guy who has had some success on Wall Street. Then again considering he got on the train a couple of blocks from police headquarters, he might have a gold shield to go with his gold watch and chain…He didn’t like me very much…I can’t blame him.

All Photos © Matt Weber

Matt Weber (Street photography), homeless, Subway

Subway Homeless NYC 2007

I know that photos like this one are open to criticism. I like this picture. One can hate the idea of photographing the poor and I understand their point of view. I had to decide whether or not this was OK a long time ago. I know that the odds are against the picture ever making a difference in the real world, so I won’t fool myself into thinking that I am doing any type of service, by exposing how tough life is to some people. There are plenty of things that people rationalize doing, each and very day. I photograph the city and ALL of its inhabitants. I have never taken a picture of homeless person reaching into a garbage can and that doesn’t mean I should get a medal. I just draw the line there and try and work with some compassion. I do throw all of that away at times when faced with what seems like a great shot. If later I discover that I have crossed the line of decency, then I can still take the negative and cut it up into pieces. I’ve only had to do that a few times and I’d love to keep the overzealous side of me under control, forever…

All Photos © Matt Weber

Matt Weber (Street photography), Kiss Kiss, signs, Subway

Subway “Self Titled” 2007

This might be the best subway picture that I’ve taken. Not because of the poster which of course is absurdly perfect. I had taken several shots of them and in one of the earlier images, they both were very aware of me and looked like they were uncomfortable. I really liked the composition though because of the way their arms were all over the place. By the time I took this frame, they had become oblivious to my persistent snapping and settled into a nice peaceful mood…This one is better.

All Photos © Matt Weber