1. What’s your favourite Amsterdam neighbourhood to shoot?
My own neighbourhood, Amsterdam East, but I also like to walk with my camera through Jodenbreestraat, Nieuwmarkt, Zeedijk and Warmoesstraat and everything in between and around them. It's a pretty touristy area, but also a neighbourhood with some frayed edges. And because of the narrow streets and alleyways, there is often beautiful light and contrasts.
2. Which secret spot would you recommend (now not secret anymore)?
Not much of a secret I guess, but I find the new venue behind Central Station very interesting, with the IJ and Amsterdam North as beautiful backgrounds. And the other day I was back in Oud-West where I used to photograph a lot, I find that also a beautiful neighbourhood for streetphotography.
3. What’s your most memorable streetphotography experience from the past year?
I enjoyed the foggy days early this year. I got on the streets a few times around dusk and loved capturing that, it feels that the city becomes quieter which creates a distinct atmosphere.
4. Which type of images are you currently shooting?
Actually, I don't focus on a specific type of image. I mainly enjoy walking through Amsterdam hoping for a beautiful little story or a contrasting scenary comes my way.
5. Which (street)photographer inspires you?
Not exhaustive and in no particular order, Stephan Vanfleteren, Jeanloup Sieff, Richard Sandler, Vivian Maier, Elliot Erwitt, Ed van der Elsken, Joel Meyerowitz and Josef Koudelka.
Martijn is featured in the 1st edition of State of Amsterdam
Copyright of each photo featured belongs to Martijn Barth
