Stepping off the plane and into the pulsating heart of New York City, I felt a rush of excitement and trepidation as a street photographer from Kolkata, India. Known as the city that never sleeps, New York welcomed me with open arms, its energy and the warmth of its people filled my heart during my two-week stay at the Women Street Photographers (WSP) Artist Residency.

The residency, a generous gift from an anonymous WSP patron, culminated in my solo exhibition, which was part of the annual Women Street Photographers festival in collaboration with the Leica Women Foto Project. This opportunity was a rare gem for a street photographer, and I am profoundly grateful to Women Street Photographers, particularly founder and curator Gulnara Samoilova and mentor Nina Welch-Kling, for their unwavering support.

Photographer Debrani Das in front of her winning exhibition at the Women Street Photographer’s show in New York. © Debrani Das

In New York, I found myself exploring its streets and alleys, living my dream with every click of my camera. I believe that art thrives on challenge and that comfort zones stifle creativity. In NYC, far from my comfort zone, I embraced every obstacle, falling in love with the city’s unique vibe and seeing the world through a fresh lens.


Staten Island Ferry 2024 © Debrani Das

Throughout my stay, I visited iconic streets, corners, and parks, but the true magic of New York photography was discovering hidden gems. The Staten Island Ferry project, which became my exhibition focus, showcased the city’s vibrant cultural diversity. Despite the limited space and time, I immersed myself in this project, spending four days on the ferry to produce a cohesive body of work.


Staten Island Ferry 2024 © Debrani Das
One memorable moment occurred on my last day of shooting. I spotted a man in formal attire, standing alone on the deck with a briefcase, his eyes fixed on the horizon. The Manhattan skyline framed him, and in that serene moment, I understood the unparalleled peace New York holds, even as the busiest city in the world. This image became the final piece in my series, capturing the essence of my incredible experience.— Debrani Das


For more information about the artist residency program, and to apply, visit Women Street Photographers. If you are a street photographer, consider submitting your best work for the LensCulture Street Photography Awards — deadline is June 19, 2024.