The Up Your Alley and Folsom Street Fairs are leather and fetish events held in San Francisco, California, on the last Sunday of July and September. They take place on Folsom Street between 9th and 10th Streets and on Dore Street from Howard Street to half a block southeast of Folsom Street.
These events are the world’s largest leather showcases for Bondage and Discipline – Sadism and Masochism (BDSM) products and culture. They’re one of the few places where BDSM activities are encouraged and acted out in public. They attract a lot of interesting and unique people. They’re eye-opening, fun, and shocking, and they’re a great opportunity for me to practice my street portrait photography.
My goal during the events is to capture candid, quirky, and humorous moments with a strong story potential and a common aesthetic thread. I don’t take photos that have shock value, like naked people or people engaged in sexual acts. I also don’t take staged portraits. I try to create unique photos that are virtually impossible to replicate and are aligned with my artistic style. I ask myself how most people might take the photograph and then do something different.
During the events, I explore the outer edges or areas less traveled. I often stand in one location for longer periods, especially in locations with vibrant colors and shapes, dramatic lighting, and workable backgrounds. I’m deliberate, patient, and discerning - shooting far fewer photos than my usual street routines. I’m looking for that special moment or people.
