Maciej Dakowicz's photographs capture unexpected, serendipitous moments

Maciej Dakowicz first discovered street photography in 2002 and enjoys the spontaneity and fast pace of it. “When I started, I had no idea about photography, I was very naive and just loved being out and taking pictures of life in the street,” says Poland-born Maciej. “When out shooting I look for a twist – something that elevates the photo to a different level. I am a big fan of ambiguity and I like strange, mysterious pictures.”

Maciej has an eye for the unusual and a knack for capturing unexpected moments, creating images that are surprising and engaging. We featured his Cardiff in the Dark back in 2012, yet here the photographer’s focus is on the more serendipitous moments, as opposed to simply documenting one thing. When out on the street, Maciej photographs everything and anything and his approach to taking images is to be “quick and discreet, but not sneaky”.

This ongoing series commenced in 2004 and continues to the present day and shows the breadth of his travels. Currently, Maciej resides in Asia, where he’s been teaching photography to mature students through workshops. “I try to spread good vibes when I am out shooting, connecting with the locals, greeting them and turning our encounters in a positive and memorable experience,” explains Maciej. “I like leaving a good impression on people I photograph, I don’t stick my camera in people’s faces without some kind of a permission – I connect first. But when I see a moment happening on the street I capture it right away, without any hesitation.”

While the photographer tries to avoid making “artistic statements”, his approach remains uncomplicated: “Photos need to talk, so words are not needed. With my street photography I simply like the act of taking pictures and then sharing them with people,” he explains.