Amidst the streets and alleys of Egypt, each of these photographs expresses genuine and heartfelt emotions, as street photographer Moataz Helmy takes us on a visual and spontaneous journey reflecting the daily life of Egyptians. "The Kiss" is one of the notable works by the Egyptian street photographer.
In the desert near the Pyramids of Giza, during a family vacation in 2020, the Egyptian photographer witnessed a man who shared a strong bond with one of the camels, prompting him to capture some photos. Helmy stated in an interview with CNN in Arabic: "The man noticed that I was photographing him, and he approached the camel, which immediately responded with this unique kiss."
Helmy submitted this image to a photography competition, where it achieved high rankings among thousands of submitted photos. Away from Egypt's desert, Helmy captures many of his images in the distinctive streets of Egypt, especially during festive times and occasions. By utilizing this approach, viewers can focus on the value and impact of the work through showcased details, such as people's features or even the location where the photo was taken.
The Egyptian street photographer, who has been practicing photography since 1977, explained that the most powerful portrait images are often converted to black and white. Helmy believes that street photography possesses a special charm and joy, as it allows for closeness to the people around you and the creation of unique friendships with them. He consciously avoids mimicking the styles of other photographers, stating: "We learn from one another, but we should also leave our own mark in our photographic works."
People generally feel joy when the Egyptian street photographer documents their beautiful memories and special moments. They also feel appreciated simply by having their photos printed and presented as simple gifts. Helmy emphasized: "I strive to tell stories through my camera lens... and showcase the beauty of my beloved country, of which I have never considered living away from."
