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PDF- https://erickimphotography.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/KING-OF-THE-STREETS-2.pdf

# KING OF THE STREETS

Recently, I embarked on an adventure with Seneca, my son. We visited the central library in downtown LA, a magnificent place. If you drive to downtown LA, park at the central public library, and with a valid Los Angeles public library card, parking costs just one dollar with validation for two or three hours at the information desk.

We explored downtown LA, including the Apple Theater (with great public bathrooms in the Apple Store on the bottom level). We walked by my old haunts on Hope Street and Broadway in front of ilcafe. We tried to visit Santee Alley in the fashion district, but it was too hot, and another event was happening at the library, so we decided to visit next time.

During our walk, I captured a street photo I was proud of—a tattooed man smoking a cigarette in front of a muscle car. I put down Seneca for a moment, grabbed my camera, took a few shots, and continued our walk.

While on Broadway, I saw a group of street photographers with Fujifilm X100 cameras and a film Hasselblad X panoramic camera. One of them might have even taken a photo of me and Seneca. I felt a sense of pride seeing street photography alive and well, knowing that I had contributed to its popularity through my blog, work, YouTube videos, and e-books.

## The Death of Slim Shady

A fellow rap and hip-hop enthusiast told me that Eminem released a new album. I was impressed by Eminem's longevity in the music industry. The greatest of all time (GOAT) is the most durable of all time, the one whose name will live on the longest.

At a public library event near the Otis School of Design, I met a man who recognized Seneca's name from the Roman Stoic philosopher. It reminded me that names last. Choosing a meaningful name for your child can be significant, like naming them after someone who had a major impact on your life.

## The Path Forward

Perpetually restarting with a fresh slate is essential. Don’t be constrained by your past self or old styles. In photography and life, evolve and try new things. Seeing artists who never change their style becomes boring. Aim to evolve like a Pokémon, from Charmander to Charmeleon to Charizard, or from Magikarp to Gyarados.

## Random Pokémon Thoughts

If you’re born around 1988, you probably played or watched Pokémon. Today’s kids still know what Pokémon is. Thinking of yourself as a high-level Snorlax can help you ignore annoying behaviors. Asking someone about their favorite or spirit Pokémon reveals a lot about their personality.

## Being the Number One Person in Your Niche

It's better to be number one in a small, specific niche than to be number two or three in a broader field. For example, in photography, focusing on street photography rather than general photography helped me find my place.

## The Planet is Big Enough

With over 8 billion people, even a small niche can have a significant impact. In photography, although many have iPhones, the community of dedicated photographers is still relatively small. Being part of a small, exclusive club is desirable.

## Pick a Fight

Inspired by a scene in Fight Club, sometimes it's beneficial to stand up for yourself and make a fuss. If you suspect someone is trying to bully or disrespect you, react strongly. This applies to various situations, such as when employees treat you poorly based on appearances.

## Vanity Objects

Despite not using my film Leica MP camera for years, it's a valuable vanity object I plan to pass down to Seneca. Film Leica cameras, like the MP or MA, might be the only cameras that can last 300 years. In contrast, digital Leica cameras are more vanity objects today.

## Bitcoin and Street Photography

In the modern era, making money from art through traditional methods like selling prints is outdated. Instead, invest in Bitcoin.