Since the early 20th century, street photography has offered an unparalleled glimpse into the rhythm and character of everyday life. This genre of spontaneous, unposed imagery has grown from a way to document the world around us into an art form that captures the essence of our cities, cultures, and human connections. From the bustling streets of New York to quiet corners in rural towns, street photographers throughout history have immortalized fleeting moments that often go unnoticed by the casual observer.
With the advent of modern technology, the tradition of street photography has evolved, enabling a new generation of photographers to bring fresh perspectives and creative approaches to the medium. The digital age has opened up new possibilities for capturing urban life, with advanced cameras and editing tools empowering photographers to experiment in ways that were previously unimaginable. Whether through high-contrast black-and-white images or vibrant, color-saturated scenes, today's street photographers continue to push the boundaries of visual storytelling.
To celebrate the 44th edition of AAP Magazine dedicated to street photography, All About Photo is highlighting innovative visual artists making their mark in this genre. The competition not only recognizes the finest street photographers from around the world but also serves as a platform for emerging talents who are exploring new perspectives and narratives in their work. These photographers skillfully use their lenses to document the intersections of daily life, capturing emotions, gestures, and urban landscapes in ways that resonate universally.
Our curated list features street photographers—past competition winners, finalists, and editor’s picks—who are already making their mark. Many of them have gained recognition through previous editions of AAP Magazine's Street Photography Contest, and their compelling portfolios offer a window into the ever-evolving world of street photography. Their work spans different styles and techniques, but each brings an authentic and unique perspective to the streets they explore.
As you prepare your own submission for the 2024 Street Photography Award, take inspiration from these standout artists. Their journeys illustrate the diversity and power of street photography as a medium, whether through capturing fleeting moments of humanity, documenting social issues, or simply highlighting the beauty of ordinary life. This year’s contest offers an exciting opportunity for you to add your voice to the global conversation, to showcase your unique vision, and to gain international recognition.
Submit your best work to
AAP Magazine’s 44th issue for a chance to be featured alongside these rising stars. Winners will be awarded cash prizes, global exposure, and have their portfolios published in our highly anticipated printed edition, which will be available on Blurb.com and other platforms. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this legacy of street photography and gain the recognition your work deserves. The streets are alive with stories—now it’s your turn to capture them.
For more details on how to enter, visit
All About Photo's Street Photography Contest.
Jonathan Jasberg
United States
Jonathan Jasberg is a compelling street photographer whose work embodies the spirit of exploration and cultural immersion. As a full-time vagabond, he has traveled to over 60 countries in the past 11 years, focusing primarily on an in-depth exploration of Japan. His dedication to understanding the culture and language of Japan has led him to make approximately 20 extended visits, allowing him to achieve a high level of proficiency in Japanese.
Jasberg's journey took an unexpected turn during the first six months of the coronavirus pandemic when he was forced to leave Japan due to visa restrictions. On a whim, he returned to Cairo, Egypt, a city he had briefly visited in 2018. Despite the stark contrasts between Egypt and Japan, Jasberg found a similar fascination with both cultures. This connection inspired him to initiate his second long-term project in Cairo, where he has made three additional lengthy visits over the past two years.
His unique perspective and commitment to documenting the intricacies of urban life make Jasberg one of the rising street photographers to follow. Through his lens, he captures the vibrant narratives that unfold in the streets, inviting viewers to engage with the cultural tapestry of the places he explores. His work not only reflects his personal journey but also highlights the broader human experience, making his photographs resonate deeply with audiences.
With his extensive travel experience and ability to adapt to diverse environments, Jonathan Jasberg is poised to continue making significant contributions to the field of street photography. His stories from both Japan and Cairo offer a rich source of inspiration for photography lovers and emerging artists alike.
Joseph-Philippe Bevillard
United States/France
Joseph-Philippe Bevillard, born in Boston, is a remarkable street photographer whose journey through art began in a unique way. After losing his hearing at the age of three, he discovered his passion for drawing and painting, which laid the groundwork for his artistic expression. It was during his senior year at a private school in Massachusetts that he first picked up a camera, igniting a newfound love for photography.
In 1985, Joseph-Philippe enrolled at the prestigious Rochester Institute of Technology to study photography. However, due to financial constraints, he pivoted his career path after two years. It wasn’t until 1990 that he returned to his photographic roots, this time at the Art Institute of Boston. During this period, he honed a distinctive style focused on square black-and-white portraits of individuals he encountered in nightclubs and on the streets.
After gaining valuable experience working for major photo labs in Massachusetts, he relocated to Ireland at the turn of the millennium to launch a property management business. Despite this shift, Joseph-Philippe remained connected to photography. In 2007, he revived his portraiture work, utilizing the same techniques and equipment he had in the early '90s. In 2010, he embarked on a new project focused on Irish Travellers, culminating in the establishment of the Irish Travellers Photo Workshop four years later.
In June 2018, he initiated a vibrant color project on Irish Travellers, while continuing to produce striking black-and-white film images with his Hasselblad camera. His work has garnered significant recognition, with publications in esteemed outlets such as Amnesty International, Der Spiegel, and Vogue Italia. He has received accolades from the International Photography Awards and exhibited his work in prominent venues, including the Royal Hibernian Academy in Dublin and Somerset House in London.
Joseph-Philippe's first monograph, Minceirs, was released in May 2021, offering a deeper look into his compelling exploration of culture and identity. His unique perspective, shaped by his diverse experiences, makes him a street photographer to follow in 2024, as he continues to push boundaries and capture the essence of life through his lens.
Argus Paul Estabrook
South Korea/United States
Argus Paul Estabrook is a biracial Korean-American photographer whose work traverses both South Korea and the USA, providing him with a distinctive perspective on Korean identity and its connections to various global and regional communities. His frequent travels between these two nations enrich his artistry, allowing him to explore and reflect on the nuances of cultural identity in a meaningful way.
As an artist, Estabrook is deeply committed to amplifying the voices of marginalized communities. He often dedicates his time and skills to volunteer efforts that aim to support and uplift these groups, making his photography not just a means of expression but also a tool for social change. This dedication to community engagement adds a profound layer of significance to his work, as he seeks to tell stories that may otherwise go unheard.
Estabrook's talent has not gone unrecognized; he has received accolades from prestigious organizations such as the Magnum Photography Awards and the Sony World Photography Awards. His work has been exhibited at notable events, including the Aperture Summer Open: On Freedom, showcasing his commitment to themes of liberty and expression. Additionally, he has been selected as a Critical Mass Top 50 artist by Photolucida, underscoring his rising prominence in the photography community.
A three-time recipient of PDN's Annual Exposure Award, Estabrook is also an alumnus of the esteemed Eddie Adams Workshop. His expertise and influence in the field were further recognized when he was named the 2017 Dorothy Liskey Wampler Eminent Professor in the School of Art, Design, and Art History at James Madison University.
With his innovative approach and focus on social issues, Argus Paul Estabrook stands out as a street photographer to follow in 2024. His ability to blend personal narrative with broader cultural themes makes his work both compelling and relevant, offering viewers a rich exploration of identity through the lens of street photography.
Giedo van der Zwan
The Netherlands
Giedo van der Zwan has been immersed in photography since the age of 11, exploring various genres, including wildlife, macro, portrait, abstract, and travel photography. His work gained notable recognition between 2008 and 2012, when several publications showcased his wildlife portfolio in Dutch photography magazines, including Focus, Columbus, and National Geographic.
In early 2017, van der Zwan shifted his focus to street photography, complementing his work as a self-employed writer and publisher. He embarked on a long-term project titled "Pier to Pier," which reflects his keen observational skills and artistic vision. The culmination of this project occurred in June 2018, when he published a self-titled book and held a solo exhibition at the Pier of Scheveningen, capturing the essence of everyday life in a unique and engaging manner.
Van der Zwan's contributions to the field have not gone unnoticed; he has been a finalist and has won several prestigious photography awards at national and international festivals. His project "Pier to Pier" has garnered significant recognition, highlighting his ability to connect with viewers through his compelling imagery.
Giedo van der Zwan's dedication to street photography, coupled with his background in various photographic genres, positions him as a noteworthy photographer to follow in 2024. His innovative approach and focus on storytelling through his lens offer a fresh perspective on urban life, making his work both relevant and inspiring in the ever-evolving landscape of street photography.
Tommi Viitala
Finland
Helsinki-based photographer Tommi Viitala has been actively pursuing street photography for over four years, though his journey with the camera began long before that. Having started with film cameras in the 1990s, Viitala has developed a profound appreciation for capturing life through his lens. With a camera nearly always in hand, he explores urban environments around the globe, most recently documenting the vibrant streets of Budapest, Hungary.
Viitala's work has been featured in various street photography publications and exhibitions, showcasing his ability to convey the essence of everyday moments in a compelling manner. His keen eye for detail and unique perspective allow him to capture candid interactions and urban landscapes that resonate with viewers.
As a rising talent in the street photography scene, Tommi Viitala stands out for his dedication to his craft and his ability to document the world with authenticity. His work not only highlights the beauty and complexity of urban life but also invites audiences to engage with the stories behind each image. Following Viitala offers a glimpse into the evolving narrative of street photography, making him a photographer to watch in 2024.
Tatsuo Suzuki
Japan
Tatsuo Suzuki, born in 1965 in Tokyo and currently residing in nearby Yokohama, has emerged as a compelling voice in the realm of street photography since he began shooting in 2008. His primary focus is on the vibrant streets of Tokyo, where he captures candid moments and recently expanded his repertoire to include portraits.
Suzuki's photography aims to reveal the multifaceted nature of the world, highlighting its beauty, intrigue, and sometimes its harsh realities. He believes that through the lens of his camera, he can evoke emotions in viewers, a goal that he finds deeply rewarding. The ability to connect with an audience through visual storytelling makes his work resonate on a personal level.
In June 2020, Suzuki released his first book, Friction / Tokyo Street, published by the esteemed STEIDL. This collection showcases his unique perspective on urban life and solidifies his place as a notable street photographer.
As a rising talent in the field, Tatsuo Suzuki is a photographer to follow in 2024. His dedication to capturing the essence of Tokyo's streets and his ability to convey profound emotions through his images mark him as an artist who continues to evolve and inspire.
Olga Karlovac
Croatia
Olga Karlovac is a compelling street photographer based in Zagreb, Croatia, whose work has garnered attention across Europe. She has exhibited widely, with recent solo shows in the UK and Belgium, showcasing her unique perspective on the urban landscape. Her photography has been featured in esteemed publications such as Black+White Photography and Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, further establishing her presence in the photography community.
As a self-taught artist, Karlovac draws inspiration from abstract expressionists and poets rather than traditional photographers. In 2017, she published her first photo book, followed by a trilogy that includes Before Winter, The Disarray, and Escape. The success of her trilogy is reflected in the fact that the first edition is now fully sold out, indicating a strong resonance with her audience.
Karlovac's work captures the drama of everyday life, where she intuitively releases the shutter to preserve moments of beauty derived from the interplay of shadow and light. Her subjects are never staged; instead, they represent fleeting moments that seem to unfold in slow motion. Working exclusively in black and white, her photographs often feature nighttime scenes, window reflections, and rainy conditions, resulting in images that appear both abstract and painterly.
For these reasons, Olga Karlovac is a street photographer to watch in 2024. Her ability to evoke emotion and depth through her lens makes her work not only visually striking but also profoundly relatable.
Toby Binder
Germany
Toby Binder, born in 1977 in Esslingen, Germany, is a distinguished photographer whose work centers on pressing social, environmental, and political issues. He honed his skills at the Stuttgart Academy of Art and Design, where he developed a keen interest in capturing the nuances of daily life, particularly in post-war and crisis contexts.
Currently based in both Argentina and Germany, Binder balances assignments with long-term personal projects, offering a unique perspective on the human condition amidst adversity. His ability to document the intricacies of life in challenging situations has garnered him international acclaim, evidenced by awards such as the Philip-Jones-Griffiths Award in 2018, the Sony World Photography Awards in 2017 and 2019, and the Nannen Prize in 2017. That same year, he also received an Honorable Mention from UNICEF for his outstanding contributions to photojournalism.
Binder's impactful work has been featured in notable publications, including Stern, Süddeutsche Zeitung Magazin, Die Zeit, Greenpeace Magazin, and Amnesty Journal, among others. In March 2019, he published his first book, Wee Muckers–Youth of Belfast, through Kehrer, which explores the lives of young people in Belfast.
As a member of Anzenberger Agency and represented by Fotogloria, Toby Binder is a photographer to follow in 2024. His dedication to highlighting significant social issues through his lens and his ability to evoke empathy in viewers make him an essential figure in contemporary street photography.
Francesco Gioia
Italy
Francesco Gioia is a street photographer whose work is characterized by a rich blend of genres, styles, and techniques. Drawing inspiration from avant-garde experiments, surrealistic expressions, film, cut-outs, and collage, as well as Bauhaus studies, he creates imagery that is both innovative and thought-provoking. His artistic versatility sets him apart in the contemporary photography landscape.
Gioia has achieved recognition on the international stage, winning numerous awards and having his work published in prominent publications such as The Guardian and The Washington Post. His photography has been exhibited in various locations across the UK, USA, Africa, and Europe, showcasing his global appeal and the universal themes he explores.
In addition to his accolades, Gioia has published a monograph with Parallel Editions titled 57, further cementing his status as a significant voice in street photography. His ability to merge diverse influences into cohesive visual narratives makes him a photographer to follow in 2024, as he continues to push the boundaries of the medium and challenge viewers' perceptions of reality.
Forrest Walker
United States
Forrest Walker is an award-winning street photographer hailing from Portland, Oregon, USA. Known for his vibrant and candid approach to photography, Walker's work has gained international recognition, with exhibitions spanning multiple continents. His fearless obsession with exploration fuels his passion for capturing the nuances of urban life in living color.
Prominent in various media publications, Walker's unique documentary projects showcase his ability to highlight the intricate details of everyday life. He has also shared his insights as a speaker at numerous events and universities across over ten countries, contributing to the global dialogue on street photography.
Currently, he is known for his Major City/100 City Project, where he embarked on an ambitious journey to walk 20 kilometers a day for over five years. This extensive undertaking allowed him to explore and photograph the diverse aspects of big city life on foot, revealing small worlds within each metropolis. Through this project, Walker not only connects with the local culture but also weaves together a narrative that links people and experiences from around the globe.
For those seeking inspiration in the realm of street photography, Forrest Walker's work stands out as a testament to the beauty and complexity of urban life, making him a photographer to follow in 2024.
