Daniel Feinstein

Year of birth: 2001.
Where do you live: Philadelphia.
Describe your art in three words: Cold, claustrophobic, intimate.
Your discipline: Photography.
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What inspires you to take photos of things that catch your eye?

The emphasis there is on my eye, I’m not interested in taking photos for other people. I always work with the assumption that no one else will see my photographs, which may sound pessimistic, but it keeps me focused on making art that I enjoy and that is truly my own.  

Daniel Feinstein | Home | 2025

How has your move from Boston to Philadelphia influenced your photography?

Moving to a new city has given me a new playground to explore. I feel freer in a new space, less restricted by my previous experiences and expectations. 

Could you share more about your process in the darkroom? How do you feel it adds to your work?

I love spending time in the darkroom. Seeing my photo fade into existence out of a blank sheet of paper never gets old. The physical process of setting up the enlarger and using test strips builds a stronger connection to each print than scanning and editing a negative digitally. And, like any creative endeavor, going through the trial and error of multiple drafts can create a final product that I never would have expected. Many of my favorite photos have been pleasant surprises. Plus, it’s a great way to meet people who can inspire and educate me. 

Daniel Feinstein | Monumental | 2025

You mention that your photography is an excuse to explore your new city. How do you approach these explorations visually?

I am a street photographer; I don’t do any studio work. To me, photography is about being in the right place at the right time. I use what’s around me, so I owe everything to where I am. All my photos come from taking long walks in new and familiar neighborhoods, so my photos reflect my physical path. They are how I see the world. 

Do you find that your work has evolved since you started this journey just over a year ago? How?

I’ve gotten more comfortable and familiar with the practical aspects of using a camera and film, but of course I am still learning and exploring my personal style. I am very proud of my work so far, but I think that I am restricting myself too much.  Recently I am trying to be more open minded in my shooting and more outgoing and free. I hope that my photos will become more organic both in subject and composition. Once I can do that, I will see what I prefer and narrow my scope back down.

Daniel Feinstein | Untitled | 2025

You often capture architectural details and reflections in your photos. What is it about these elements that attract you?

I consider myself an abstract artist, which is difficult to do as a photographer. Of course, every photo is of something, but I am not interested in what it is but what it looks like. I rarely take photos of people because once a person (and especially a face) is in the frame, it becomes about who that person is rather than how they fit into the picture. It’s very selfish. I challenge myself to show you nothing while showing you something. People are too obvious, but a blank wall or a window can be anything I want it to be. 

How important is the use of black and white film in your photography, and what do you feel it adds to the atmosphere of your work?

At this stage in my creative career, I think it is essential for creating a dreamlike feeling. I don’t want my photos to feel real; I want to remove all possible context and show you my own world. However, I feel like I am using it as a crutch, and in the future, I would like to challenge myself to create this same feeling using color. 

Daniel Feinstein | Hell | 2025