Jodi Dela Cruz, A Dynamic and Instinctive Street Photographer Celebrated for His Cinematic Use of Light, Motion and Human Interaction
An Exclusive Interview with Pure Street Photography
Discover how Jodi transformed casual travel photography into a daily street photography practice, embracing spontaneity, shadows, motion and unexpected human encounters through everyday life.
Interview by Dimpy Bhalotia and Kamal Kumaar Rao
17/05/2026
(c) Jodi Dela Cruz
(c) Jodi Dela Cruz
We would love to know more about you! Who you are and where you're from? When did you start street photography?
I’m Jodi Dela Cruz (or J.B.), an LA-based street photographer. My journey started in 2015 when my wife bought us a Canon EOS Rebel SL1 for our trip to Europe. I had zero experience with a 'real' camera, so I spent the trip learning the settings on the fly. I quickly realized that while the landmarks were beautiful, I was far more fascinated by candid moments and human interaction happening around them.
For years, I only broke out the camera for travel. That changed in 2022 when I posted some old Italy shots and a colleague told me I should "photo dump more often." That nudge stayed with me. By early 2025, after my wife gifted me a Leica D-Lux 8, I finally committed to the craft, and now I’m out hitting the streets almost daily.
What inspired you to become a street photographer?
I must say I was self-inspired...only because when I first picked up that camera and transitioned from photographing landmarks and tourist attractions to capturing images of people or strangers, I truly had no idea that the term "Street Photography" even existed. I had no reference point to rely on. As of recent, I draw a lot of inspiration from both Saul Leiter and Vivian Maier.
How would you describe your work in terms of style and/or approach?
I capture everything and strive not to restrict myself to various styles of street photography. If you examine my Instagram page, you'll quickly notice that I shoot in both color and black and white, as I believe some situations call for either medium. I am attracted to intriguing people, scenes, lighting, and circumstances, ensuring that my gaze is always focused on discovering them all.
(c) Jodi Dela Cruz
(c) Jodi Dela Cruz
What is your photography routine like? Do you photograph every day?
I aim to shoot daily, though it can be challenging with work. At the very least, I keep my camera around my neck at all times. Some of my favorite photos emerged from situations I never expected to materialize.
What camera or mobile device do you use for photography? Do you shoot digitally, on film, or a mix of both?
I currently shoot with a Leica Q3 28MM as my daily driver.
What challenges do you face when photographing on the street?
The biggest challenge for me remains photographing strangers. I would be dishonest if I claimed it wasn't a challenge. The solution has always been to zone in, push away the fear, and go for the shot. Other strategies I rely on include framing a scene first and letting people enter that scene.
Do you ever wonder what happens to the people in your photos?
All of the time. :)
(c) Jodi Dela Cruz
(c) Jodi Dela Cruz
In your opinion, what is the biggest misconception people have about street photography?
This brings me back to my biggest challenge: whether people will care or react confrontationally when I take their picture. What I’ve discovered is that by disciplining myself to focus and capture the shot, a significant percentage of people do not mind and even welcome the opportunity.
What are your favourite elements to capture in a street photograph? (light, colour, composition, human interaction, etc.)
I am a sucker for shadows, silhouettes, motion blur, golden hour, interesting scenes and interactions.
What is your take on social media influence on street photography?
It can be inspiring when viewed through that lens. Although Instagram has shifted further away from photography and more toward videos and reel-based content, there remains a substantial amount of content to explore and draw inspiration from. New platforms like Irys are taking the right approach for photographers seeking to gain recognition for their work. As long as photographers realize that "likes" are not everything, they should not compromise their artistry to appease the algorithm. Furthermore, balancing their consumption with the purchase of photobooks from their favorite photographers and dedicating time to appreciate each page is important.
Are your prints available for purchase? If so, where can art buyers and collectors contact you to purchase them?
Not currently. I am in the process of creating my website this year, and the opportunity for interested prospects to purchase my work is on the roadmap.
(c) Jodi Dela Cruz
(c) Jodi Dela Cruz
What advice would you give to aspiring photographers?
Pick up a camera, keep shooting and keep practicing. Draw enough inspiration from your cohorts around you, establish photographers, and content while maintaining the discipline to draw your own path and not be discouraged. Photography is a long game that takes time and repetition.
A huge thank you to Jodi Dela Cruz for sharing his incredible journey.
In Frame : Jodi Dela Cruz