Member Spotlight: Matthew Zucker

How did you first come across CMC, and what drew you to become a part of this collective?

I discovered CMC via Instagram—I was following a few members and really admired the work they were creating so I decided to check out one of the monthly meetings, and I immediately felt welcomed. It was a warm, open space where people genuinely wanted to share ideas, give feedback, and grow together. That sense of community is what really drew me in.

Lately, you've been focused on street portraits—can you walk us through your approach when you're out shooting? What draws you to this style of photography right now?

I’ve tried meditation at home, and at the start of martial arts classes, but I’ve always found it difficult to quiet my mind. My thoughts tend to race from one place to the next. Strangely enough, despite the chaos of the streets of NYC, I actually find it easier to be mindful when I’m out on the street shooting. I try to become aware of my footsteps and breath. I follow the light and the breeze.  I'm not looking for anything in particular. It’s more about becoming fully present, tuning into everything and nothing at the same time.

And then, suddenly, something stands out. There’s a spark that catches my eye, and I try to capture that energy. I’m drawn to certain people or things because, in that moment, they’re shining for me in a way that feels meaningful. That’s what street portraits have become for me: a kind of moving meditation, a quiet, intentional way to connect with the world.

How has being part of CMC influenced your photography practice or perspective? Have there been any standout moments or collaborations that impacted you creatively?

In my time as a member of CMC I’ve discovered that many of the insecurities and hopes I have about my own work are actually shared by others in the group. That sense of shared experience has been really grounding. The meetings have reinforced my belief that there are no shortcuts in photography—it’s all about consistent practice, staying open to learning and, most importantly, leaning into my intuition. 

I remember one conversation with another member where we both admitted being surprised by the praise some of our images received. We had each shared a photo we thought was just “so-so,” but the feedback from the group offered a completely new perspective. Hearing others highlight things we hadn’t even noticed helped me understand that sometimes we’re too close to our own work to really see it. Moments like that remind me how valuable it is to share, to listen, and to stay open to different interpretations. I usually leave the meetings feeling inspired to try something new and get back out shooting.

Could you share 3–5 images from your most recent project or photo series? We'd love to hear the story behind these works and what inspired the project.

These are some recent portraits created on my daily walks. They were shining, so I made a photograph.