Chris Harrison, a Brighton-based street photographer, is driven by curiosity, exploration, and the thrill of discovering the unexpected in everyday life. Inspired by the legendary Elliot Erwitt, Chris’ photographic journey spans decades, weaving through moments of passion, hiatus, and revival. In this article, we delve into his approach to street photography, his connection to Brighton, and how he finds joy in the simplicity and unpredictability of the streets.
Scroll down and inspire yourself. You can check Harrison’s Instagram account for more amazing photos.
You can find Chris Harrison on the Web:
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A Humble Beginning: The Spark of Inspiration
Chris Harrison’s love for photography began in 1987 when he stumbled upon Elliot Erwitt’s famous photograph, Great Dane Legs, Boots, and Chihuahua. This single image ignited his fascination with the art of candid photography. Shortly after, he received his first camera, a second-hand 35mm, and began his journey in photography, attending art college to study graphic design and photography.
However, like many budding photographers, Chris soon realized that candid photography—what we now call street photography—was far more challenging than it appeared. "It took my naive and impatient 16-year-old self a long time to realize that candid photography was much harder than Elliot Erwitt made it look," Chris reflects. This realization did not deter him; instead, it fueled his determination to grow as a photographer.
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Rediscovery and Revival: A 15-Year Hiatus Ends
After years of dabbling in photography while balancing other life responsibilities, Chris took a 15-year break from the craft. But in 2016, a visit to Arles rekindled his love for photography, pushing him to dive back into street photography with renewed passion. "I’m still plugging away," he admits, sharing how this hiatus allowed him to re-approach photography with fresh eyes.
For Chris, photography is a creative outlet that never leaves him. His approach to street photography has evolved over time, becoming less about seeking perfection and more about enjoying the process of exploration and discovery. His curiosity drives him to embrace uncertainty and surprise, which are essential to his work.
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Brighton: A Photographer’s Playground
Brighton, on the south coast of the UK, serves as Chris’ primary canvas. The city’s vibrant, tourist-filled streets, especially during peak season, are a treasure trove of opportunities for street photography. However, Chris finds himself more drawn to Brighton’s low season. "The spaciousness of the city and the beach feels more ‘me’," he explains, preferring the quiet, contemplative nature of winter months over the chaotic bustle of summer.
Most of Chris’ work is created within a one-mile stretch of Brighton’s seafront. He finds endless inspiration in this small, familiar space, constantly discovering new angles and fleeting moments that others might overlook. His connection to the city is profound, and his ability to find beauty in its quietness reflects his patient, reflective approach to photography.
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The Daily Grind: Balancing Work and Photography
As a full-time brand consultant and designer, Chris has to balance his professional work with his passion for street photography. Despite a busy schedule, he carries his camera everywhere he goes, whether visiting clients in cities like London, Bath, or Hastings, or simply taking walks through Brighton. Chris has mastered the art of fitting photography into the crevices of his daily life.
"When I’m not motivated to get out and shoot, I stay on top of my archive and keep it reasonably well organized (a never-ending challenge)," he shares. This commitment to both shooting and archiving his work ensures that his creativity is continuously nurtured.
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The Joy of Photography: Process Over Perfection
For Chris, photography is much more than a hobby—it’s a compulsion, a need that must be fulfilled. "It’s the sheer joy of coming home with something that feels special to me and that wouldn’t have existed if I’d stayed at home," he says. Yet, the process is not without its challenges. Frustration, trial and error, and periods of creative block are all part of the journey.
Chris draws inspiration from a line in the Bhagavad Gita: “You have the right to work, but for the work’s sake only. You have no right to the fruits of work.” This philosophy resonates with his approach to street photography, reminding him to focus on the act of creating without obsessing over the results. It’s a practice he strives to maintain, embracing the imperfections and surprises along the way.
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Conclusion: The Evolving Path of a Street Photographer
Chris Harrison’s street photography journey is one of evolution, perseverance, and passion. From his early inspiration to his rekindled love for the craft, Chris embodies the spirit of a photographer who never stops learning, exploring, and pushing boundaries. His images capture the beauty of fleeting moments, whether in the bustling streets of Brighton or the quieter corners of life.
In a world where everything moves quickly, Chris’ work invites us to slow down and appreciate the ordinary—and sometimes extraordinary—moments we might otherwise miss. Through his lens, we see a world of discovery, surprise, and unfiltered reality.
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