Nathan Allen
- Abhishek Deb
- Jul 20
- 5 min read
Nathan Allen | Street Photographer
Forget comfort zones! SPG's 13th interview features Worcestershire's own Nathan Allen, the European street photographer who champions getting 'comfortable with discomfort.' If that sounds like a paradox, wait till you see his work – he speaks as openly as he shoots, heart firmly on his sleeve. Join us to gaze into the world of street photography with Nathan Allen & the Street Photography Gallery. You might just find the magic in embracing the uncomfortable.
Nathan what is more important to you, the people or the surroundings?
Nathan Allen : People are more important, however sometimes the two cross over , people bring energy and emotion to the narrative , while the surroundings bring context, structure and atmosphere
How would you define your style of street photography?
Nathan Allen : I'd define my style as observational and emotionally driven, I'm drawn to subtle gestures, quiet moments and the small details that go unnoticed in everyday life, rather than focus on dramatic scenes or heavy contract, I try to capture atmosphere, light, shadows and human presence play a big part in my images.
Nathan why and when did street photography become your THE thing? What exactly inspired you?
Nathan Allen : Street photography became my thing when I realised it allowed me to connect with the world in a way no other form of photography did. It wasn’t about perfect lighting or staged moments—it was about honesty, spontaneity, and raw emotion. I think the moment it truly clicked was during a random walk through Mahon in Minorca —camera in hand, no plan—when I captured a fleeting glance between two strangers. That single frame told an entire story, and I was hooked. I was already inspired by the likes of Robert Frank and Joel Meyerowitz, I have many books of theirs.
Nathan, pick your own Top-3 street shots for all of us!
Nathan Allen : I have shared 3 of them the back stories, check them below.
When you look deep within, did street photography change you?
Nathan Allen : Yes, from the first street photo I took, now I can't go a week without shooting street.
Nathan, is there any top list of tricks to succeed as a street photographer? Share some tips for people who are starting out on this genre . . .
Nathan Allen : Be invisible but present, blend in and less people will notice you, use whatever camera you have as gear doesn't matter so much. Get comfortable with discomfort, stepping outside your comfort zone, study the greats but don't imitate.
Is there anything beyond that camera for a street photographer ?
Nathan Allen : Its about vision , patience and presence , the camera is just a tool for your vision.
Is street photography your primary source of bread & butter?
Nathan Allen : No, my source is e-commerce but hoping with an exhibition this will change.
Any shot you missed and you must have taken?
Nathan Allen : There are always shots that I miss, sometimes this is when I've put my camera away for a break, sometimes this is when there's a shutter lag or I'm switching the camera on.
Which camera(s) do you use? And what about your lenses and other accessories?
Nathan Allen : Leica Q2, Ricoh GRIII.
Which other street photographers’ work inspires you the most?
Nathan Allen : Saul Leiter, Bruce Gilden, Daido Moriyama to name a few, I take a lot from their work.
What is your word of caution to amateur street photographers?
Nathan Allen : Don't chase perfection or approval , chase growth and honesty. don't get caught up in trends , likes or mimic others.
What NOT TO DO in street photography?
"Don't be disrespectful , don't rely on shock value , don't ignore your surroundings, don't stop practising" - Nathan Allen
Will you call street photographers as travel photographers too?
Nathan Allen : Yes and no, they're not automatically the same thing, the difference lies in intention, travel aims at showcasing a place , street photography relies on human moments.
What is your perspective on the relationship between Street Photography and Street documentary?
Nathan Allen : Street photography and street documentary share a lot of common ground, but they differ in purpose and depth. Both are rooted in observing and capturing real life in public spaces, but while street photography often focuses on single, powerful moments or aesthetic impact, street documentary aims to tell a broader, more cohesive story—often with context, continuity, and intention over time.
You are reading the SPG interview of Nathan Allen - the street photographer
Do you follow any composition technique by the books?
Nathan Allen : I love negative space and I also love the rule of thirds.
Any project that you remember more than everything else?
Nathan Allen : I Have a project which has been going for a few years , its incomplete but I like that, I add to it occasionally , its called "This is England " a documentary into culture , places, people.
Any location that you dream to cover next? Or any place that you would want to revisit?
Nathan Allen : I'd like to go to Istanbul for my next project, and also revisit Morocco.
Colourful and happening nations indeed Allen!
What makes you say “Wow!” when you see some other street photographers’ work? (and the reverse)
Nathan Allen : An image that evokes emotion or a connection.
That is Nathan Allen for all of you as he opens up his world of street photography for you!
You can connect with Nathan Allen on Instagram
If you are a street photographer and own a credible body of work, you can be featured in The Street Photography Gallery’s Feature section. You only have to hit the button below or email us on thestreetphotographygallery@gmail.com
I loved the interview and the clicks, however, I am now very curious and intrigued about Nathan Allen's "first street photograph"!
Nice interview. Good to know Nathan's approach. Thank you.
Good work Nat. Loved the interview and the work.