Street Studio: Strangers in Dumbo, Brooklyn | EP 17 | Tuvy Lemberg

Hey guys, we're happy to share with you another episode of Street Studio in collaboration with Adorama. This time, our very own Tuvy Lemberg is back on the scene, this time bringing his street photography skills to Dumbo, Brooklyn. 

In episode 17, Tuvy and crew set out to turn ordinary strangers into captivating subjects in one of New York’s most picturesque neighborhoods. Located between the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, Dumbo is the perfect playground for any photographer with its cobblestone streets, iconic views, and endless character.

Tuvy’s mission for the day is simple: find stylish pedestrians, strike up a conversation, and create unforgettable portraits. Armed with a camera, natural light, and his trusty V-Flat, Tuvy’s approach is casual yet calculated, bringing out the best in both the setting and the people he encounters.

Creating Magic on the Streets

As soon as Tuvy arrives in Dumbo, he’s immediately on the lookout for his first subject. “The first shot that I want to do is find someone who is dressed well,” he says, eyeing the crowd. His goal is to capture the Brooklyn Bridge, the cobblestones, and a well-dressed subject all in one frame. A well-matched mask and shoes catch his attention, and within moments, Tuvy is asking a stranger if she’s willing to spare a few minutes for a quick photoshoot.

What makes Tuvy’s method unique is his efficiency and ease in approaching people. There’s no hesitation. He simply walks up to strangers and asks for their time. In this case, his subject is on a lunch break, but she agrees to pose for five minutes. Tuvy gets to work, using the natural light around him while leveraging the V-Flat to bounce sunlight and fill shadows.

The result is a crisp, dynamic shot that showcases the charm of Dumbo alongside the subject’s style. 

The Power of the V-Flat

A key tool in Tuvy’s street photography is the V-Flat, a simple yet effective bounce board that helps manipulate natural light. During the shoot, he demonstrates the impact the V-Flat can have on a photo, especially when working with natural light and shadows.

At one point, Tuvy recruits a new subject, Jasmine, and positions her perfectly in the shade. With just a small patch of sun peeking through, he uses the V-Flat to reflect the light back onto her, instantly transforming the lighting in the shot. “Look at the difference,” he says, showing how the fill light changes when he moves the V-Flat away and back into position.

Whether it’s creating light in an otherwise shaded area or highlighting the subject’s best features, he finds ways to make every shot look professional while staying fast and flexible.

Making Strangers Shine

Approaching people on the street for a photo can be intimidating, but Tuvy’s friendly, direct style makes it seem natural. He often praises their outfits or unique features, building rapport in seconds. Once the subject is comfortable, the actual photography part becomes simple.

In just a few minutes, Tuvy not only captures striking photos but also leaves his subjects with a fun memory. It’s clear that for him, street photography isn’t just about the end result – it’s about the experience, the interaction, and the ability to make anyone feel like a model, even if just for a few moments.

Why Dumbo?

Dumbo’s mix of old-world charm and urban vibrancy makes it a photographer’s dream. Tuvy is quick to point out its cobblestone streets and sweeping views of the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges. The neighborhood is a natural fit for his style of street photography, providing a stunning backdrop that’s equally iconic and full of personality.

For Tuvy, Dumbo is more than just a location – it’s a canvas. And for those lucky enough to be stopped by Tuvy, they get to be part of that story, captured in a moment that feels spontaneous but looks curated.

Turning Ordinary Moments into Art

At the end of the day, Tuvy has done more than just take pictures of strangers – he’s captured the essence of Dumbo, its people, and the art of street photography. With just a few simple tools and an open approach, he transforms casual encounters into something extraordinary.

Wanna Learn More?

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