In an occasional series, we’ll highlight the work of a Club member and what they are up to. Cazarella Tavs has only been a member for two seasons now but her powerful street photography is winning fans both at Lymington Camera Club and internationally.
Pure Street Photography, founded in 2020 by photographer Dimpy Bhalotia and her creative partner Kamal Kumaar Rao, is one of the leading platforms dedicated to celebrating authentic street photography.
This year’s competition received nearly 1,200 entries from photographers across 34 countries, and it has been judged by David Campany, the Creative Director at the International Center of Photography in New York.
The first-place winner, Cazerella Tavs of the United Kingdom, describes her award-winning shot, Meeting in the Middle, as a pleasant surprise.
‘Meeting in the Middle’ by Cazarella Tavs, First-Place Winner | Pure Street Photography Awards 2025
“There is always an element of surprise to photography and a thrill in capturing a candid moment that can never be replicated. This was one of those moments. An unexpected standoff in the middle of a quiet rural road, where two cows pause as if negotiating the right of way. It emphasizes form, symmetry, and contrast what might otherwise be a fleeting roadside encounter transforms into a playful reflection on standstills, stubbornness, and the gentle comedy of rural life — a reminder that even traffic jams can be charming when left to cows!” Tavs says.
Cazerella summarises her approach to Street Photography as follows
“Don’t overthink, the more you shoot the more you will discover.
- Intuition Over Technicality: Tavs prioritizes a “creative eye” and instinct over technical perfection. She embraces her “chaotic and disorganized” nature, allowing spontaneity to guide her shoots.
- The Soul of the Street: For her, street photography is more than just taking pictures of strangers; it is about capturing the “emotional rhythm” and the stillness found within urban chaos.
- Respect and Observation: She challenges the misconception that street photography is random, arguing it requires deep observation, timing, and a delicate balance between artistic expression and respect for subjects.
Technique and Tools
- Gear: She uses a Canon R5 Mark II for more formal work, a Fujifilm X100V for its portability in street settings, and her iPhone 13. She maintains that the photographer is the “conductor” and the gear is merely the instrument.
- Elements: Her work is driven by human emotion, reflections, motion, and street art/graffiti. She does not stick to a rigid style, preferring to let the environment dictate the outcome.
Navigating the Modern World
- Social Media: Tavs views platforms like Instagram and Pure Street Photography (PSP) as vital for networking and growth, though she warns against the “pitfalls” of comparison and constant scrolling.
- Community and Connection: One of her favorite aspects of the craft is the potential for connection, noting that several of her subjects have become long-term friends.
Advice for Aspiring Photographers
- Embrace Mistakes: She views “perfection” as overrated and believes mistakes are the primary way photographers improve.
- Constant Readiness: Following her mother’s example, she advises photographers to always carry a camera, as the best moments are usually unexpected.
- Stop Comparing: She encourages artists to grow organically and stay true to their own rhythm rather than comparing themselves to others online.
You can see more of her work at https://www.instagram.com/insta_cazerella_pics/
