Leanne Staples

Leanne Staples is a New York City-based artist, photographer, and licensed tour guide who specializes in street photography and personalized walking tours.145 Staples is originally from Detroit and has a BA in English Literature from Concordia University in Montreal.23 She also holds a certificate in Audio Visual Technology from Oakland Community College in Michigan.3

Staples provides group street photography workshops and private tours in various New York City neighborhoods.25 Her workshops and tours are customized to fit individual interests and desires, and she personally leads each one.4 Staples' approach to street photography involves capturing the honesty of the moment, with a focus on both the simplicity and complexity of city life.2 She encourages others to be creative and trust their instincts when taking photos.1

Staples' journey into street photography began unexpectedly when people kept walking into her architectural shots.6 This led her to embrace the presence of people in her photos and eventually offer photo tours, combining her passion for photography with her love for New York City and helping others.6

Leanne Staples' accomplishments include:

• Awards She received 2nd Place in the World Art Day Street Photography Award from Oxford University Press in 2014 and the Street Hero Award from Black and White Street Magazine in 2013.35
• Exhibitions Staples has participated in group exhibitions internationally, including in New York City, Greece, Australia, and Spain.35
• Publications She has self-published several limited edition books and zines featuring her photography, such as "Triste Noir" and "City in Color".23 Her work has also been featured in various magazines and journals.35
• Teaching Besides workshops, Leanne has also been a visiting artist and lecturer, including in-person classes at the Marlene Meyerson JCC in New York City.3