Capturing Life Through Street Photography

Peter Lee has been living in China since 1999. His street photography spans more than two decades, with some images dating back to the early 2000s. Many were shot on one of several Rolleiflex twin-lens reflex cameras, each more than 60 years old.

The Rolleiflex often sparks curiosity from passersby, giving Peter the perfect opening to ask for a portrait. Its vintage charm also helps ease suspicion when approaching strangers, making rejections far less common. Using these classic cameras allows him to focus on composition, light, and human expression rather than just the technology.

Peter’s work captures the rhythm and diversity of life on the streets, from quiet, contemplative moments to the energy of bustling markets. He is fascinated by the small gestures, fleeting expressions, and unique personalities that define everyday life. While China is his main focus, his travels across the UK and Europe have also inspired a series of urban portraits and cityscapes, reflecting different cultures and atmospheres.

For Peter, street photography is more than taking pictures. It is about noticing details, understanding people, and preserving moments that might otherwise go unseen. On his YouTube channel, he shares not only his vintage camera collection but also behind-the-scenes stories, insights into his creative process, and reflections on the craft of street photography.