How this photographer wins over total strangers when taking their impromptu portraits

The photographer’s thoughtful, conversation-based approach disarms even the most camera-shy individual.

Ryan Daniel had no prior professional photography experience when he decided to buy his first camera. But within six months of roaming the streets of Portland, Oregon — and with the help of a few online tutorials — Daniel developed a surprisingly unique photographic style: capturing free portraits of strangers. Under the alias Pale Blue Wave, Daniel launched an Instagram account several years ago to share his work with a wider audience. The 40-year-old grew his following from roughly 100 to more than half-a-million across his social media accounts. Daniel says his photography is rooted in a mission to make people feel truly seen. His thoughtful, conversation-based approach disarms even the most camera-shy individual – from an older dog walker, head-down in a hurry, to a young woman waiting at a bus stop. His artistic process is refreshingly simple: he wanders the city’s streets, seeking people who spark his curiosity. When he finds someone who catches his eye, he offers them a free, impromptu photoshoot, aiming to spark a brief yet meaningful conversation. The entire encounter is filmed on Daniel’s GoPro, which offers his followers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the moments that inspire his photography.