Coalville Street Photography Oct 2024

The last time I tried my hand at street photography was in Nottingham back in 2016. (Link: Nottingham Street Photography) Eight years have passed since that adventure, and I thought it was time to dive back in. Street photography is vastly different from wedding or family photography. At a wedding or family party, you’re surrounded by people you know, but on the street, it’s a different story entirely. You don’t know how people will react to being photographed, and I always aim to avoid being intrusive.

After all these years, my perspective on the world and photography has evolved. While I might have less energy than I did eight years ago, my passion for capturing moments has only grown stronger. So, I picked up my camera and headed to the heart of Coalville.

Walking along the center of town, I searched for the perfect frames. I’ll admit, I still felt hesitant about photographing people directly, but I’m confident I’ll overcome that with time. The morning light cast a beautiful glow over the bustling shopping center and streets. I also captured images of Coalville’s iconic miner’s monument, created by the Le Blanc Fine Art Bronze Foundry. This statue, a tribute to the town’s rich history, became a focal point of my shoot. Another image showcases part of the “Mother and Child” sculpture by Robert Thomas (1926–1999) and the Corinthian Bronze Company Ltd, adding depth to the story of Coalville’s artistic heritage.

Coalville surprised me with its charm and the variety of scenes it offered. From the busy marketplace to quieter streets and historical landmarks, there’s so much potential for storytelling through photography. This outing reminded me that the beauty of street photography lies not just in the images but also in the exploration and discovery.

I’m already planning my next visit to Coalville and other nearby towns. Each place holds its own unique stories, waiting to be captured. If you’ve been hesitating to try street photography, don’t let fear hold you back. Start with what feels comfortable, and soon enough, you’ll find yourself immersed in the art of capturing life as it unfolds.