We caught up with the brilliant and insightful William Karstens a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
William, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
I never have. The internet and social media is full, literally full of people who see, frame, capture better, technically, artistically and outcome wise. Lacking any formal training, and to an extent having a disdain for traditional methods, I’ll forever be an imposter.
Perhaps that’s good though, given this project is about a stranger and a guest.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am a San Diego based Street Photographer, posting under the Instagram hashtag #mundaneskirmish and #mattressfire you might not have heard of me. If you haven’t, I’m doing it right.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
For street photography, you have to be dispassionate, empathetic and tolerant. There are stories every few feet. They will all break your heart, make you angry, yell at you or ignore. If you’re fortunate, you’ll get a photo every time.
Qualities though? Persistent, having noble intent on your approach, and an open mind.
For a beginning street photographer? My advice is to not listen to advice. Go out, take photos, find your view, present it to the world. Be prepared for ambiguous responses. People won’t get it. Youtube will tell you what to think. People on the street will suspect you. Don’t let it sway you from being you.
Oh, and you’ve failed if you’re on youtube telling people how to be a street photographer.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I love, and do mean LOVE the time alone, walking, in the moment, catching photos. Literally, its the few hours of mental silence that exist in my life.
But, I’ll never say no to someone walking with me. You can find me on instagram or on mundaneskirmish.life
Contact Info:
- Website: mundaneskirmish.life
- Instagram: @mundaneskirmish
Image Credits
All images are captured by me.
